Work Strategically!
"10 Secrets for Career Change Success"
Discover why midlife is the PERFECT
time to change careers!
"Exactly what I needed to take the stress and chaos out of my job search!"
Did you know...?
†Lee Hecht Harrison study
People
who work with a Career Coach find jobs 15 - 46% faster than those who don't!†
who work with a Career Coach find jobs 15 - 46% faster than those who don't!†
Is it time to get serious about YOUR job search?
Request your free
Career Strategy Session with
Kim Avery,
The Midlife
Career Change Coach.
Your free 30 minute session will focus on YOUR goals, and a strategy to pursue them with confidence!
Career Strategy Session with
Kim Avery,
The Midlife
Career Change Coach.
Your free 30 minute session will focus on YOUR goals, and a strategy to pursue them with confidence!
†Lee Hecht Harrison study
Networking Tools
Whether you are headed for a networking
event, attending a professional seminar, or meeting an old friend for
lunch, just like a good Boy Scout, come prepared with your networking
tools.
1. Know what you want.
To network successfully you need to know what you want to accomplish so that you can determine who it is that you need to meet.
If you are just beginning your working life, or if it is time for a transition, a small amount of time spent developing a job plan will save you years of heartache. Remember, you don't just want a job; you want a job you love.
Begin with the end in mind.
2. Business Card.
Yes, even if you aren't currently working, a business card is a must.
On your business card, list your name, contact information, website, and any on-line networking sites that present your professional persona.
If you are designing a business card exclusively for your job searching efforts, match its look and feel to your individual brand. Consistency in presentation will make a more lasting impression.
3. 30 second commercial.
Develop a 30 second commercial to communicate your career brand.
This self-marketing tool allows you to introduce yourself positively, clearly, and creatively. Include your three greatest strengths and the bottom-line benefit those strengths create.
For example, "My name is Doris Dunlap and I help companies grow by delivering unforgettable customer service. With uncommon courtesy, timely answers and extreme attention to detail I keep my customers coming back for more."
4. Resume.
While it isn't appropriate to hand out your resume to everyone you meet, it is essential to be able to deliver it when asked.
Have your resume written, printed, and stored electronically so that when the opportunity arises - you are ready.
Luck happens when preparation meets opportunity.
5. Follow-up letter.
Almost every meeting or phone call made during your job search process is an opportunity for follow-up.
Use your best judgment as to whether to follow-up by postal mail or email. Each has their pros and cons.
A postal note lends a personal touch but is not as timely. An email can be sent immediately but may easily get overlooked in a crowded inbox. Until you know a particular contact better, you may want to opt for both.
However, you send it; a model follow-up note should be prepared in advance so that you can customize it and send it at once.
Include these elements:
- A thank you for their time or assistance
- A brief recap of your skills and benefits
- A suggested next action - a follow-up meeting, phone call, or request for more information.
Confine your follow-up letter or email to one page. Personalize it. Proofread it and send it within twenty-four hours. By doing this, you will stand head and shoulders above the competition.
With your career vision in mind, a great business card, a snappy 30 second commercial, your professional resume, and your model follow-up letter written you are truly prepared. Your networking tools are ready and your next job lies just around the corner.
Good luck and have fun!
For more great resources, follow these links:
Job Networking
Networking
Networking Skills
Networking Phone Calls
Networking Letters
Sample Networking Letter to an Acquaintance
Sample Networking Letter to a Stranger
Back to Free Resources from Networking Tools