What Do You Know About Me?

A friend who interviews prospective job applicants has an interesting first question when he meets a candidate:  

"What do you know about me?"  

Some in his company find this to be an "unfair" inquiry, but in today's Social Media Crazy World there is no reason someone should not be easily able to provide a good response.

Each person who is brought in for interviews at my friend's company receives a list of the executives they will meet a week in advance, but most have no clue how to answer this question.  His bio is on the firm's website and he has a robust LinkedIn profile, yet few candidates have ever looked him up before their face-to-face meeting. 

When going to a meeting of any kind, be prepared.  This is not just good advice for job seekers, but also for sales people (and others).  Before you meet with someone new, are you looking them up?  Why or why not?

In advance of any meeting it is useful to read the other person's LinkedIn profile.  While many people do not have meaningful information on their profiles (and some do not even have a LinkedIn profile), there are times when the discovery of a mutual connection or knowing career information (where they went to college, business affiliations, etc...) will fast-forward your conversation and relationship.

Take a look at my LinkedIn profile.... what did you learn about me?  Why would that matter if we were going to have a meeting?

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do - Tim Tyrell-Smith's Job Search Software

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and personal lives. 

My friend Tim Tyrell-Smith just launched something that he’s been working on for about five years.  Well, that’s a long time, so I figure Tim deserves a spot here in this week’s “cool things my friends do” post.

Tim’s a 25-year marketing guy who quit a full time VP Marketing job to become an entrepreneur. And to dedicate a larger portion of his life to helping people do great things. 

Tim and I met at San Diego State University back in the late 80’s .  We were in "rival" fraternities... but really everyone was friendly. Tim is a Sigma Chi and I am a Beta -- not that any of that stuff matters 20 years later!  ;-).  I had lost touch with Tim for many years, but we reconnected via social media and have become great friends again.

Over the last five years, Tim’s been working hard to create helpful content for a community of professionals going through job search transition. It’s been a passion project for him to reach this community with structured and strategic guidance. And to watch their positive progress toward a new job.

During these five years, a complete strategy was born. From each blog post, template, speech and video he created, the puzzle pieces came together. And about two years ago, he decided to formalize the strategy and make it available as an online software program.

So that’s what Tim just launched – his job search strategy software.

The software offers a structured, step-by-step process to establish a job search strategy. As one user said, “It’s like tax software for your job search”. A complex and often misunderstood process is broken down into smaller, “easier to chew” pieces. And there is significant help (including video) at every step.  Specifically, the software delivers the following:

• Identification of clear and specific job search objectives (plus help with target companies)
• A personal branding strategy and profile
• A complete set of personal marketing materials (resume, cover letter, bio, business card, elevator pitch, references)
• A customized networking strategy including targeted introductions
• A purposeful strategy for interview preparation

And since I told Tim I might write about his new software, he said: “Make sure they know about the early bird special we’re running through December 31.  It offers a big reduction in the sign up fee for anyone who will offer feedback during the beta period.” If you are interested or have any questions, you can contact Tim via his blog. Tell him Thom Singer sent you!

And so there you have it. If you are out of work and need new structure and a strategy for your job search, you should visit timsstrategy.com to learn more.  You can also find him on Twitter (@TimsStrategy) and on Facebook (TimsStrategy).

WATCH Tim's Video Here!  (http://youtu.be/uyp_j_vRfG0)

Have A Great Day

thom singer

What To Do When Your Network Goes Cold

I got the following email earlier this week:

I am an interim management consultant.... who let my 90% of my professional network (1000+) go cold for two years. Whilst I let it go cold, I did spend years building it. For the last week, every day I write to a selection of contacts to re-warm the relationship. Truth is, I am looking for a work assignment and feel a little anxious to get work, but am determined to avoid the big networking mistakes. I am not asking them for opportunities or who I may contact at this stage.

Question 1:  How do I best reach out to my 1000 contacts? I publish a blog and I’m not sure whether writing to ‘all’ my network and letting them know about the few most recent articles is a good or bad thing to do. Bearing in mind that what I write in my blog is relevant to 90% of my network.

Question 2:  How & when should I best let my network know I am looking for work?
Here is my response:

1. Letting a network go cold is like leaving your wallet on a table in a bad part of town. It is lost opportunity.   The good news is that re-kindling relationships is easier than building them from scratch.

I think when you reach out to those whom you have lost touch you have to fall on your sword and admit that you failed in keeping in touch. While the people did not reach out to you either.... you have to take ownership of cultivating relationships or they will die out.

A group email or links to your blog is too impersonal. Your outreach needs to be a custom connection to each person. Also, email or using a social media tool is so over-used for this type of re-connect activity and you will get lost in the noise. 

Pick up the phone and call. Yep, 1000 calls.  If that is too many, select the 250 people whom you most want to rekindle the friendships.  If you did 10 a day you would be done in 3 months (25 days for 250 people). 

Be casual in your discussion and say something like "I thought of you today and realized we had not talked in far too long". Let them know you appreciate knowing them and hate the idea of a connection to someone important going stale.  Ask if there is anything you can do to help them. Ask them what is their biggest challenge. Etc....

Some of these people will be indifferent to your call. Others may wonder what you really want (we live in a world where too many are suspect)... but some will be thrilled to hear from you. Grasp onto those people and then follow up with emails, and invitations to have coffee, etc....  

Once you warm up these contacts, NEVER MAKE THIS MISTAKE AGAIN!

2. Not calling for years and then calling when you need a job sends a message that says "I am a taker who only shows up in our business community when I need something". Thus you have to wait a while to jump in with your needs of finding work. 

If they ask, and some will, that is a different story. But be clear that while you are looking for opportunities, it is not the purpose of your call.  Be clear about the situation that made you realize your failure in letting contacts expire... and the purpose for your call was to reconnect. At least in America, people are very forgiving when you admit your mistake.

Most people want to help others.  However with over three years of the tough economy has made many people sick and tired of hearing from old friends who are only calling to find help in getting new jobs.  If your are not sincere in wanting to re-connect for the sake of the friendship, they will see through it and become jaded by your self-focused motivation.

Good luck.

****Anyone have any other suggestions for this person? Leave a comment.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

100% Of Those Who Give Up During A Job Search Do Not Find Jobs

I have a friend who has been unemployed for over three years.  He is a good man who had a series of events derail his personal and professional life.  After his divorce he remained 100% dedicated to raising his daughter, and he is a great dad.  His ex-wife never skipped the chance to remind him that he was failing in the money department, but he never missed his child support or any time he could spend with his kid.  His daughter will always know how much he lovers her!

To make it work he had to move in with his mother, which is hard for a 40-something man, but relocation for employment was not an option.  He had a small geographic territory where he had to remain to be present for his daughter, and the job market in that area has been very tight for several years.

While it has been hard, he never gave up trying to find ways to land the next opportunity.

Today he starts his new job as Director of Sales for a mid-sized company.

The business is a service company with strong history serving their market.  The average time an employee has been with the company is over nine years.  It is the perfect job for this man, and has room for advancement.

After mailing out thousands of resumes, networking like crazy, working with experts, hundreds of interviews (he was #2 for about a dozen jobs), countless phone calls and emails, and more prayer than you can imagine, ..... he found the job listing on Craig's List.

The lesson for everyone is NEVER GIVE UP.  Those who get burned out and rationalize that there are no jobs will never find the gem.  So much is said about "the best way" to find a job, but he did everything he could, and kept turning over every rock.  For three years he kept looking.

100% of those who give up during a job search do not find jobs.  Even in a bad economy there are jobs, and those who find them are the ones who work hard to uncover the opportunities.  There is no "Job Fairy" who will put an offer letter under your pillow.

Many of the opportunities for which he applied over the years came via networking, some through head-hunters, other from job boards (like Monster and Craig's List), etc....  He tried it all over and over and over.

Was he bummed to find so few job openings? Was he depressed about coming in second for so many opportunities? Was it hard and often embarrassing?  Yes, Yes, Yes.  But he kept trying.

And today he begins a great job.  Congratulations.  I know he reads this blog, and I want him to know I am very happy for him... and very proud of him.  He has always been a good guy and a great friend..... He deserves this chance!  His boss may not know it, but he has the most enthusiastic Director of Sales in the world!!!

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

The ABC's of Trade Shows and Conferences - J is for Job Search

One of the advantages to attending a business event is that there many people there who work for companies in and around your industry. Regardless of if you are currently employed or seeking work, the chances are good for making a connection that could eventually lead to a new career opportunity while attending a trade show, conference, convention or seminar.

I personally have made many connections at events that lead me to new jobs. This was true when I worked as an employee, and still true now that I work for myself. The jobs did not come right away, but the friendships that grew from meeting at a conference later became the catalyst for a career opportunity.

However, people do not want to be accosted by job seekers while in the buffet line at happy hour. Thus, the best way to conduct a job search while attending an event is to just be yourself. Those who are not openly looking for work are usually the ones who get offered the new opportunities from their participation.

Those who know of available jobs inside their companies are not looking to fill those spots with people who are desperate and pushy to get an interview. Instead they are interested in discovering ambitious people who will contribute to the success of their business and are fun to be around.

Too often people show up at these events with a stack of resumes in their hands. Each person they meet is greeted with the long version of their career needs. Since a trade show style event is not a job fair, this is not what the others in attendance are there to hear.

The best way to maximize your job search needs is to down-play your own career needs while leading with your interest in other people and your passion for the industry. If you are seeking new employment it is fine to let others know this, just do not lead with it in the first five minutes of the conversation. Keep in mind their purpose for being at the conference, not your purpose. If they are there to learn and have fun, getting an ear-ful about your job search is not in line with their priorities.

Put a priority on getting to know people first and build a relationship. If they get to know you, and like you, they are more likely to assist you in getting into their company.

Leave the resumes at home. Follow up later, if appropriate. Be engaged with people.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections. http://www.conferencecatalyst.com

Make A Career Doing What You Love

There is a big difference between performing a job, and doing what you love. You feel the power in your heart when you are fully engaged in something that is a true passion. It is not work, but instead and extension of your soul.

And the people around you can tell the difference too!

Several years ago I discovered that I had a calling to be a professional speaker (and consultant / coach). Over time I had been asked to give presentations, be the MC for business events, and share ideas to help others.... but did not think that one could earn a living doing something that was so much fun.

I have spent more than a decade learning about the business of speaking and have the utmost love and respect for the industry (and for others who are dedicated to being a professional speaker and promoting the profession!)

This week I was the opening keynote speaker and the "Conference Networking Catalyst" for a major technology conference in Dallas. While the focus of the event was "Computer Networking", my message of "People Networking" was a key point echoed in the technology industry presentations. It matters regardless of your job title!

I loved being with the attendees, vendors, speakers and organizers at this event. I spent time meeting them at breaks and meals.... and enjoyed hearing their stories about how the opportunities in their lives came from people.

I spoke with a senior IT executive from a Fortune 500 company who mentioned that he had seen many presentations on networking, career development, and marketing skills,..... but had not seen a speaker find quite as much joy in sharing a message about the power of business relationships. Many in the audience mentioned they were touched by the example of how giving the correct attention to people can impact success in business and personal life.

I loved being there, and they knew it.

Where is your passion? You do not need to become a speaker to share your love with others. Allow the love you have for your profession to ooze out all over the place no matter what your job. If you do not have that feeling of connection to your chosen career, maybe it is worth exploring why not. Maybe it is there and can be re-ignited. If not, perhaps a career change is a possibility.

Live a life connected to your inner passion and you will have more fun everyday!

Have A Great Day.

thom

The Psychology of Successful Job Search (with Tim Tyrell-Smith)

This quick video on The Psychology of Successful Job Search features Tim Tyrell-Smith of Tim's Strategy.

In a short time Tim has become a powerhouse in the career world. He has become a speaker, writer, blogger, social media maven, and job search guru.



If you are looking for a new job, you need to know Tim's Strategy. Tim has been there, done that, and loves to share ideas that will help you succeed.

***Side note, Tim Tyrell-Smith and I went to college together over 20 years ago in Southern California. I had not seen him since 1989, but last year was reconnected to him when his blog began to explode on the national scene. Since that time we have been in touch regularly, and have helped each other find additional success. I tell you this because you need to look around and find people from your past who might work in complimentary areas. When growing your network, it is often faster to re-establish a lost friendship than it is to create a new one!

Networking Doesn't Work

Jason Alba has a provocative blog title called "Networking Doesn't Work (Part II)" on his JibberJobber Blog. It is a follow up from a post of the same title from two years ago. This time he is posting a new comment from the old post were a reader whined that "Networking" is the most overused word in the last two years.

People often run around screaming "I Hate Networking" (even those who speak on the topic create presentations built on the "schtick" that networking is evil. I watched one woman drum up the passion in an audience by making them chant "I don't network, I connect").

Oh poppycock! (There you go....., to the person who said I could not properly use that word in a blog post!). When you understand what it means to network you cannot "hate" it or claim it does not work.

Here is my response on Jason's blog... I think it sums up my feelings on the topic:

Jason-

You knew I would “bite” and leave a comment.

People mistakenly think that “networking” is a magic bullet. They will go to a few events, complain about the job market, and then proclaim “networking does not work!”. These people are right… Networking does not work if you do not WORK. In the middle of the word “networking” you will find the word “WORK”. If you thought it was quick and easy then someone lead you down the wrong path!

Networking is “The creation of long-term, mutually-beneficial relationships between two or more people where all involved prosper more because of the relationships than they would without the relationships”.

Lets look at that definition:

Creation (ummmm, that means you have to make it. Relationships and useful business connections do not happen by accident or happen just because you showed up at a happy hour)

Long-Term (ummm, that means you cannot expect results fast. Treat others as expendable for years… then call them when you get laid off…. you get a big NOTHIN’ from them. This is your fault, not theirs. Building a long-term relationship takes time to establish and cultivate. Sorry.. No short-cuts).

Mutually-beneficial (ummm, that means you cannot look at the other person as a genie in a bottle who will grant your every wish. You must bring something to the table. This “something” need not be big or equal to what they bring you… but it must exist. Takers get NOTHIN’ from networking!)

Two or more (ummmm, that means you cannot do it from your computer in your pajamas. I know, I know, social media changed the world. Bullshit. The ways we communicate have changed, how we are wired as human beings in our souls has not changed. A connection on LinkedIn without a meaningful relationship will bring you NOTHIN’)

All involved prosper more (ummmmm…..Your goal must be to see the other person prosper.. not just seeing yourself prosper. Yes, I know, you need a job. But if you only care about networking when you need something you will get NOTHIN’. See “mutually-beneficial").

More because of the relationships than without the relationships (ummmm… All opportunities come from people. A doorknob is a useful tool to get you into a room, but it will not bring you an opportunity. Put your attention on cultivation of connections with human beings and you will find yourself on top of a mountain screaming “NETWORKING DOES WORK!")

Have A Great Day.

thom

College Graduates Still Searching For Jobs

Many colleges and universities have finished for the semester and launched their new grads into the "real world". Alas, far too many college graduates are still searching for jobs, and many are doing this without a clue on the best ways to make connections that can lead them to getting the best start for their career.

I met a recent college graduate in an airport two weeks ago who had been out of school for nearly a month and had no leads on finding a job. She was discouraged, as she has assumed that a degree from a highly respected university would have been the ticket to employment. Her parents were pressuring her to move home, and she was mad at her school (and the whole world) for leaving her stranded with no job and no idea how to really find real work in a timely manner.

She kept complaining about the economy, but when I asked her if any of her five closest friends had scored good entry level jobs, she admitted that all of those in her inner-circle did have work. Some were not in their field of choice, but none were waiting tables or working in retail.

I pointed out that the rough economy was taking its toll, but if her buddies found jobs, then it is not impossible. I asked how her friends had made the connections that lead them to their found employers, and she had no idea. She had never really asked them about if they had interned, had family connections, networked, etc.... It seemed like magic to her these fellow graduates had found a secret map to getting work.

I gave her my card and a copy of my book "Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Graduates" (written with co-author Anne Brown... who also is the author of "Grad to Great"... and encouraged her to look at Anne's website as it is full of useful resources for the recent graduate). I also pointed her to several job search gurus, Including Tim Tyrell-Smith of "Tim's Strategy Blog" and Jason Alba of "JibberJobber.com" (I wrote their URL's on a piece of paper and asked her to let me know if their advice was helpful to her).

I told her that Anne, Tim and Jason were the best resources to help her get her mind around the job search, and that I would happily introduce her to any one of them if she felt they could be a useful connection.

I never heard from her again. She did not have business cards, so I had no way of reaching out to her to see if she has made any progress in finding a job. I do not know if she read the book, or visited any of the talent-rich websites I encouraged her to visit.

I have been thinking about this soon-to-be young professional and the countless others like her who are looking for jobs after graduating from college. With every week that goes by throughout the summer, I assume they become more discouraged. All that work to earn the degree, and yet they have no prospects for finding a job. I want them all to succeed in finding jobs that inspire them to make amazing contributions to our society.

Here are six suggestions for college grads looking for work:

1. Do not get discouraged. This is not the first time in history that people have graduated into rough job markets. Eventually there will be opportunities in your chosen field, and those who keep the faith will find the chance to launch a wonderful career.

2. Be open to multiple options. Apply for jobs in other related industries and when you find a job work very hard to be the best employee you can. Your reputation is being created every day and people are watching you. If you try hard, and do your best, someone will notice and lead you to other opportunities down the road.

3. Consider relocation. Different cities will provide unique opportunities. If you are looking in one city you are limiting your chances of finding an employer that will provide you with ample chances to learn and grow. Do not be scared of starting over, I moved to Austin (from California) when I was 25 years old, and it was the best thing that ever happened to my life and career.

4. Ask your friends how they found their jobs. Knowing techniques used by others can be a road map to finding work. You should also inquire if there are other openings at their companies. Your friends want to help you, but if you do not ask them for assistance, they may not even know you want the help.

5. Network like your life depends on it... because it does! All opportunities come from people, so you must invest time in growing relationships with those who can connect you with the job you desire. Do not be shy or think that because you are young you have nothing to offer others.

6. Make looking for a job a full time job. Read the Some Assembly Required books, and any articles and blogs you can find on the subject of networking and job search. Talk to people in your industry of choice every day. Attend networking events. From 8:00 AM until 6:00 PM do not participate in too many activities that are not job search related (I am not saying you cannot go to the gym at 10 AM,.... just don't spend your whole day at the mall or movies). You will be working long hours once you find a job, you might as well get used to the routine!

Good luck and hang in there!

Have A Great Day.

thom

Press Release - Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Graduates

New Year Publishing Releases Networking Book for New Graduates Danville, CA

New Year Publishing has announced the release of its most recent book from its business division, Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Graduates. This informative introduction to networking was co-authored by marketing, sales and networking experts Anne Brown and Thom Singer.

Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Graduates is a practical guide packed with useful tips, creative techniques and real-world stories that are relevant for people just starting out in the job market today. There are many misperceptions about the value of networking among college graduates. They range from “networking is a waste of time” to “networking is only for people in sales” to “no one is interested in hearing what I have to say at networking events so why bother”? Though it’s no mystery why graduates are feeling discouraged these days, networking can help them land their first job faster than by using traditional, old-school job search methods.

"Our goal is to encourage new grads who are not active networkers to make it a part of their lives, and to help those who do network become even more effective," says Brown. “The book is both a tutorial and resource, so that readers not only learn how to network, but where to start."

Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Graduates provides insight on The Hidden Job Market, how to work a room so it doesn’t feel like work, goal setting, dressing for success, the difference between visibility and credibility, and personal branding. The book includes an entire chapter of real-life networking foibles, which will make the reader laugh until they cry.

Brown felt that that a networking book specifically focused on new graduates was needed. "The economy is making the job search hard for everyone and those without much solid work experience find it the hardest of all," explains Brown. "There are many places new grads can go for support and for networking, places that just haven’t occurred to them; this book makes the search for them that much easier."

"It’s been a long time since I graduated from college," Singer says. "Anne knows exactly how job search techniques have changed, and this book has fresh ideas for even the class valedictorian."

Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Graduates is the eighth book from award-winning speaker Thom Singer, and the fourth book in his Some Assembly Required series. Anne Brown is the founder of the popular web site GradtoGreat.com for college graduates making the transition from college to career. Anne received her BA from Michigan State University and her MBA from Loyola University in Chicago. She holds the designation of Executive Scholar from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Like Singer’s other books, this book is based on the premise that people prefer to hire and do business with those they know, like and trust.

For additional information please visit www.newyearpublishing.com, www.thomsinger.com and www.gradtogreat.com.

Have A Great Day

thom

Networking Is Vital for Stay-At-Home-Dads (and Stay-At-Home-Moms)

There was an interesting article in yesterday's Wall Street Journal by Sue Shellenbarger about Stay-At-Home-Dads. The article, "Daunting Task for Mr. Mom: Get A Job", discussed the issues that dads face after devoting time to being the full-time parent when they return to the workforce.

I enjoyed the article and I always read about this topic (Stay-At-Home-Dads) with interest, as I was at home with my oldest daughter for two years when she was a baby (she is now 13). My wife was promoted to a job she had desired, and we made the choice together that I say home for two years. 13 years ago being the dad at home with the kids was like being from Mars, compared to today. It was very rare.

The point that is always ignored in stories like this about moms or dads who stay home is the importance of networking.

Granted, I say this as I have written several books on networking.... but in this case it was my life line. For the entire two years I was at home I scheduled one lunch and one breakfast appointment with people from my business community. I knew that the transition back to work would come one day, and feared that "out of sight" was "out of mind".

Originally I took the kid with me to these meetings. She was an easy baby, and thus was happy and quiet in restaurants. When she became mobile (and could no longer be contained during a meeting), I would trade babysitting with neighboring Stay-At-Home-Moms (there were NO other dads). They would watch my kid for these short meetings, and I would watch theirs while they went on other errands.

The power of networking was evident two years later when I went to find a job, as I had several opportunities and nobody had an issue with my two years at home. It was well known and understood in the business community that I had taken this detour from my career, and that I was proud of my decision.

Unlike the men in the WSJ story, it was a badge of honor. I had several companies that were interested in having me join their team.

11 years later this is the high point of my work history. I always positioned it as a positive for my career and I never was a stranger in the business community. I showed up at networking events, kept in touch with key influencers and served on the board of local business groups.

Moms suffer from this issue, too. They disappear for years and then cannot figure out why they have troubles going back to the work world. You need to keep your connections alive, show up at industry events, and never let you time at home be anything other than a positive career experience.

I still tell people that after taking care of a kid full-time for two years, there is no boss in the world I would ever find to be difficult!.

Have A Great Day.

thom

Anne Brown and "Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Graduates"

Anne Brown, co-author of the new book "Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Graduates", was recently interviewed on Phoenix television about the importance of networking for recent graduates who are looking for a job (or just want to position themselves for more opportunity in the future).

If you know someone who is graduating this year, "Some Assembly Required" makes a great gift that can help them launch on a career path that includes cultivating the power of business relationships.

Available on Amazon.com

Anne is also the author of "Grad to Great".

Job Search and Career Tips Interview - Fox TV in Ohio

This video clip is from an interview FOX on a recent trip to Ohio.



Have A Great Day.

thom

Find A Job Fast

The economy ebbs and flows. Good times come and go. Shit happens.

The last 18 months there has been a lot of attention focused on the loss of jobs in the United States and around the world. I understand. I feel it. I was laid off in April 2009.

It was not the first time I was laid off. Sadly, I have seen four other companies close their local offices or go out of business entirely over the last 20 years. Bummer? Sure! But that is just part of the game when you work in for entrepreneurial ventures (although some of those jobs were with Fortune 100 / established companies, so you are never safe!).

Although I now work for myself (and enjoy it), I have been in situations where I have needed to find work. It is not fun. It is stressful. It can be lonely.

For me, my safety net has always been other people. I discovered early that having a network of personal and professional contacts is the fastest path from unemployment to a new job.

The best way to build a network is start long before you need it. You must invest time and effort to establish meaningful relationships with other people. You cannot just show up with your hand out when you are in need and expect people to jump into action to help you. People are busy, and they are often not willing to use their connections and vouch for strangers.

If you are one of those folks who have made up every excuse in the book to not network, it is not too late. However, to succeed you have to stop rationalizing the reasons why you do not work to connect with people: "I'm too busy", "I'm an introvert", "I don't know what to say to people when I meet them", "I don't have the right education", "I think people who network are pushy", "I have to get home early", "I am not a morning person", etc.... (I have heard dozens of excuses... all of them are lame).

If you are looking for a job (or even if you are working and want to make a move), here are three things can do to find a job fast:

1. Treat looking for a job as a full time job. Turn off the TV and don't go to the gym. If you were working you would be at work from 8 AM to 6 PM (most people work more than 9 - 5), so while you are unemployed, you must be working on your job search ten hours a day. Do not do your grocery shopping during the day or any other activities that you would not do if you were working somewhere.

I am amazed when I read articles about people who have been out of work in the recession who say they have given up, or spend their days writing a novel. No wonder they do not have a job. While not everyone will find a job quickly, 100% of those who do not seek employment will remain unemployed. Jobs do not fall from trees.

Create a "To Do" list and an agenda for your daily routine. Only put things on your calendar that will directly or indirectly lead you toward a job. Manicure? NOPE.

2. Network like your life depends on it. All opportunities come from people, therefore you need to put yourself around those in your industry. If nobody knows you exist, they cannot tell you about jobs and other interesting information that could benefit you in your job search. While a focus on those you already know is the most productive (have you had coffee or lunch with every former boss, co-worker, client, vendor and friend you have ever known in your professional career? If not, why not?), meeting new people is also key.

Attend industry groups, Chamber of Commerce meetings and any other gathering you can find where the right types of people will be present. While these can be expensive (so you will have to choose wisely which events you attend), many organizations seek volunteers to help with the set up, check in, etc... Find out if they need help, and they might waive the registration fee. Either way, get out and network.

3. Do talk too much about yourself and your job search. Nobody wants to hear how rough it is out there. If all you do is lament about being unemployed, you will develop a reputation as "that sad unemployed person". You will have more success if you ask the other person questions and get them talking about their life: "How long have you lived in town?", "Why do you attend this networking group?", "What's new and exciting in your career", etc....

People care more about themselves than they do about you (especially when they first meet you), so get them talking about THEM. Eventually most people will realize they have dominated the conversation and ask you questions.

When it is your turn to speak, present a positive spin on your situation. Nobody wants to recommend "Debbie Downer" for a job. Tell them about your "full time job of looking for a job", and how it is teaching you the REAL meaning of hard work! That is more impressive than telling them about how you have caught every episode of "Days of Our Lives" or that you never miss "OPRAH!".

I know it can be difficult (I have been there), but don't give up. Realize that if you create a plan and work hard at your job search you will feel better about yourself than if you give up. Your attitude will be an important factor in getting the next job.

Have A Great Day.

thom

Extra Tip ... READ BOOKS. If you are not reading non-fiction daily, you should start. Carve out 30 minutes every day before you start your "job search activities" to read something that will educate and motivate you. If you are not a regular reader, start with small books. There are thousands of business and motivation books that are under 200 pages. All of my books are designed as "quick reads". I hate books that are like reading a "text book", so I wont write books that are stale and hard to get through.

CLICK HERE for a full list of my books available on Amazon.com

Are You The "Unknown Person In The Red Shirt"? - Five Similarities Between Actors and Business Professionals

Everyone who is a fan of the original Star Trek series knows that time is limited for the unknown actor wearing a RED SHIRT. Any extra who went on an "away mission" to the surface of a planet (with Kirk, Spock, and the rest of the main characters) did not return.

It was always the unknown guy in the red shirt who was killed in every episode. On some planets there were hostile circumstances and someone was going to die. It was never the stars of the show.

What does this have to do with you?" The key for your career is not the red shirt, but being the unknown character. If you are not known in your business community you are vulnerable.

Your reputation, inside and outside your company matters. If you think it is silly when you hear people talk about the importance of establishing a personal and professional brand, you could be the person wearing the red shirt (and not even know it).

Lead characters are rarely killed off on television programs. When it does happen, those popular actors and actresses are quickly re-cast in other shows. Don't believe me? Look at the number of new shows that feature actors you have seen before. There are thousands of people in Hollywood who are seeking roles on television, with many of them waiting tables. Meanwhile, those who the audiences know, like and trust are always have new work.

Using Hollywood as the example... here are five similarities that you need to think about between your career and that of an actor:

1. You have to have talent. There is a lot of competition for roles in the movies and inside companies. Those who are casting the jobs only want to hire people who can prove they can deliver the goods. Make sure you do good work and that people are aware of this up front.

2. Go on auditions. Working actors are always talking to producers, directors and casing agents about other opportunities. They know that their jobs are limited in scope, as even ongoing television shows get canceled. They explore what types of roles are available for them, and they understand that even the stars have to audition. You should keep your eyes open for what else is out there that you would enjoy so that when the time comes to make a move, you are aware of your options.

3. Fame makes a difference. While those who are successful in their business community are not chased by the paparazzi, the people who become "a little bit famous" in their industry are always going to have opportunities. Take advantage of PR opportunities: write articles, speak on industry panels, become a source for reporters and you will find that you will become known as the "go to person". That will make you more valuable in your career.

4. A good agent is a must. Actors are sent to audition for roles because their agents are working for them to uncover opportunities. While a business professional will not have the same type of agent, a supportive network of professional contacts serves the same purpose. When you have other people who keep their eyes open for great opportunities, you will always find new roles.

5. Continue to learn. The best actors take acting classes, work with coaches, and accept roles that are out of their comfort zone to help stretch their skills. In business if you are not learning new things, you are yesterday's news. You cannot rely on your past experience to ensure your future. Too many things are changing. Have you attended a seminar or worked with a coach in the last year? The answer should be "yes".

If you do not regularly take action in these areas of similarity between Hollywood and your career, then you need to look at your shirt color... it is red.

Have A Great Day.

thom

***NOVEMBER / DECEMBER SPECIAL on Business Development Planning. Thom Singer is available to advise individuals and small groups on the power of a personal and professional reputation and brand. If you are interested in expanding your visibility and strengthening your network in 2010 --- it will not happen by accident. Create a plan and a list of actions that can help you harness the power of business relationships in the new year. Contact Thom Singer at thom (at) thomsinger (dot) com or (512)970-0398.

Four Common Job Hunting Mistakes

****2013 UPDATE  -- The New York Times writer Michael Winerip wrote a July 2013 follow up piece to the 2009 article on Michael Blattman (Link to acticle).  Blattman was a 58-year-old professional who was laid off and hit hard by the recession.  The 2013 piece shows what became of him since the original article (the original article spurred my blog post).  I am thrilled that Mr. Blattman is happy with his career today.  I know personally that success is not about the money, as much as it is about satisfaction in a job.  However, I stand by my advice on this post from four years ago-- and I believe the suggestions hold strong for anyone else facing career transition!!!  

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I got a note from a reader of this blog with a link to the story of an unemployed job seeker in New York City whose plight was profiled last week in the New York Times.

The subject of the article is 58 years old man who was laid off from a financial services job eighteen months ago. The reporter did a good job of covering this man's tough story, which made me feel sorry for this guy. While he is having a rough time, the problem with the article is that it tossed out the details of his saga as "the way it has to be" for someone over fifty who got that pink slip.

The article is filled with red flags of mistakes that the man made along the way. Not just in his post lay-off time, but also throughout his career. It was clear that while he was very successful, he had not built a strong enough network of professional contacts and did not establish the long lasting mutually beneficial friendships. There is also no advice for him, or others, on ways to improve employment chances.

My intent of this blog post is not to pick on this guy, I hope that his situation turns around and he finds the right job, but I also hope he reads this post, as I think it has some good suggestions to help anyone who is out of work and looking for a job.

Before you read the below, read the article that sparked my post.

Four Common Job Hunting Mistakes:

1. Pride Kills Opportunities. Never be afraid to reach out to your network. If you have properly invested in establishing real "mutually beneficial" relationships with others, they will be there to help you in your hour of need.

After being laid off in January 2008 the gentleman in the article decided to move from Florida to New York City. His assumption was that there would be more job opportunities in the Big Apple. He had not lived in Florida very long, having moved there from Maryland following a divorce. The article pointed out that he "couldn’t go back to Maryland, tail between [his] legs".... but that might have been the better move.

The financial services industry hemorrhaged jobs in New York soon after he arrived, and since he had spent many years raising his family in Maryland, that is where his strongest network connections would have been located. Worried about the "tail between his legs" was probably more in his head than the reality of how his friends would have judged him. Real friends would have been glad to have him home and happy to help him in his time of need. Strangers in a strange town have no history, and thus it is harder to establish those referral connections that come with a long term friendship.

2. Blindly sending resumes does not work. No matter how good you are, a blind inquiry will most likely not produce interviews.

The man stated that he mailed 600 resumes and only got 3 interviews (two by phone). He also thought it was rude that most companies did not even acknowledge receipt of his information and he was disappointed that recruiters were not helpful (and not returning his calls).

The reality is that companies are getting thousands of resumes for every open job. They cannot talk to everyone. Recruiters spend their time with people who are marketable. They make their money by placing people in jobs, so if they do not see you as marketable, they move on.

Those who are getting the interviews are the candidates who have found a way of standing out from the pack or have strong industry connections and reputations. Those people who spent years networking and helping others consistently are the ones who got hired first.

This is not an employment issue.. it is a personal marketing and branding issue. I wonder if the guy in the article is making himself seem unique and valuable or if he is seen as another laid off worker in need of a job? Having not seen his specific efforts I cannot judge, but my guess is that he has not positioned himself as a "must have" product.

3. A bad attitude will keep you unemployed. How you think about your own situation will have an impact on your success.

He is quoted in the article saying that describing his skill set and experience is impossible... adding - “I’m a sales guy, I can sell ice to Eskimos. My problem is, I have no credential. I’m not a lawyer or doctor, not in pharmaceuticals, not an expert in women’s fashion. I have no broker’s license or insurance certificate.”

This is BS. Lots of people who have HUGE career successes in any economy have no degrees. This guy has an MBA, so he is just grasping at straws on this quote.

He seems to have a complex that he does not have the "right" experience for a series of different industries. Well nobody has all the things needed for any job. I once knew a woman who had the perfect resume and experience for a job. She even knew the hiring manager personally. The position went to someone else who had no industry experience, but had the right skill sets and the attitude the company wanted. Details can be taught, attitude cannot.

Job seekers need to look to how their experience translates into any job. Companies often hire people from outside industry because smart managers know that an outside point of view can often be more successful than someone who is just like everyone else on the team. View your lack of direct experience as a positive trait that makes you stand out from other candidates and, just maybe, the decision maker will agree.

He adds, “Here’s the reality, I used to be somebody, I had a job. Not anymore. Everything ground to a halt. No sense of purpose. No self-esteem.” --- That attitude will kill all chances of getting hired. Who wants to bring that negativity onto their team? Even if you feel that your self-worth is tied to your career... never say it out loud (we are all much more than the title on our business card!). Own your attitude and know that there is always opportunity. Your beliefs will help create your reality.

4. Don't just focus on yourself. Help others. Even when you are having a tough time, finding ways to helps others can make you feel good and bring good karma.

There was no talk in the details of his daily schedule that he was actively volunteering or participating in job seekers support groups. He eats at a diner, writes fiction, and seems to go to museums a lot, but his time would be better spend seeking ways to help his fellow man. Many non-profits and churches have very vibrant job groups where members meet to share information, ideas, and moral support with each other. If he worked to help others improve their job search activities, he would be pleased with how many people would then be looking out for him as well.

There are countless charities that need volunteers. In just a few hours a week he could find some of that self-esteem that he said he has misplaced by making a difference for those in need.

Additionally, when hiring managers ask him what he has done during his time off from work, it is much more impressive to list how you have tried to make a positive impact on the world rather than just being self-focused. Sitting in a diner writing fiction does not excite potential hiring managers.

As I mentioned, I don't want to pick on the guy who was profiled in the New York Times. Instead I wanted to help him. I reached out to him and offered to send him free copies of my books "Some Assembly Required: How to Make, Grow and Keep Your Business Relationships" (New Year Publishing, 2007) and "Batteries Not Included: 66 Tips to Energize Your Career" (New Year Publishing, 2009). Both books are full of ideas that would be ideal for a job seeker who needs to tap into their network, and beyond, for help them find their next opportunity. (***Update... I never heard from him).

Have A Great Day.

thom

Great New E-Book For Those In A Job Search

I know in my core that relationships are essential to success. All opportunities come from people, and you never know how or when the people you encounter will come in and out of your life and provide you with the boost you need to excel.

Those looking for jobs must pay special attention to their networking skills. But even those not searching for work need to make networking a priority. Pay attention to people and understand their goals and dreams. Look for ways to help them when ever you can.

Sometimes you meet people there is an instant connection that leads to more business or other success for both of you. Other times you cannot see the reason for your meeting or discover ways that you can both have a positive impact on each other - but they are interesting and nice... and nobody should ever shrug a friendship for the sake of friendship.

Then there are people who you don't know well, lose touch with, and then cross paths again decades later to discover you are in the same line of work, industry or share similar goals. When this happens it is a sign that there is true and mutually beneficial opportunity in the works, and the universe is dropping the connection in your lap!

Let me tell you about one such friend -- and his fantastic new e-book for people who are in the middle of career transitions, job searches, or just concerned about their employment future.

Tim Tyrell-Smith is the author of the new e-book, "30 Ideas - The Ideas of Successful Job Search". I knew Tim at San Diego State University over 20 years ago. We had some mutual friends and always got along well - but we did not run in the same circles. We were in different fraternities (I was a Beta, he was a Sigma Chi... but don't hold that against him!!!) and our paths did not cross again for many years.

Recently, via Facebook, we became re-connected. Tim is now a leading expert in the job search arena, and is the founder of two websites that are both informative and powerful for those who are seeking more from life. Spin Strategy - Tools for Intelligent Job Search was founded because of his passion to help others overcoming the difficulties of being laid off and who are looking for their next career opportunity. Quioting - A Quest of New Ideas is designed to help those who have unique and creative ideas, but never know what to do with them.

Tim's message closely matches what I profess here on the Some Assembly Required Blog and in my books. He is growing his business, blogs, writing and speaking career .... and it is clear to me that we can be valuable resources to help each other find greater success.

I have downloaded Tim's free Job Search E-Book and I recommend you do the same. It is full of great advice and he clearly provides useful tips for anyone who is concerned about how to cultivate a more successful job search.

Share the link with your friends who are looking for work, and let them know about the resources he has available at Spin Strategy.

Have A Great Day.

thom