New Year Career Resolutions for 2014

What career goals have you set for 2014?  It's important to take stock of what went well, what didn't, and what you'd like to see different in your career this upcoming year. Some questions to consider:

1)  What do you want to do more of, less of, or differently in your career this coming new year?
2)  How robust is your network? Who would you like to add to your network? How can you stay in better contact with your network?
3) Are you seeking a promotion or a raise? It's important to know your market value so you have a basis for discussion if you find that you're being underpaid.
4) If you rated your satisfaction level in your current job from 1 to 10 with 10 being high, where would you fall? If you're not as satisfied as you'd like, what steps can you take to improve that number? Do you need to learn some new skills? Can you find a better fit within your current company? Do you need to look for work elsewhere?

Invest some time to take a career inventory for this year and set goals for next year. Just the simple act of writing down your goals increases your chances of achieving them.

Grab a copy of my free ebook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!

Increase Job Satisfaction through Seven Stories Exercise

Here's a great exercise to help examine the most satisfying activities over your life and discover those you will want to use as you grow older. The key in using this exercise is to identify things you did well and also enjoyed doing. You can include activities when you were younger and throughout your life. For example, perhaps you earned a merit badge in Girl Scouts.

Here are some additional examples:

• Got media coverage for a new product launch.
• Coordinated blood drive for company's division.
• Came in third place in tennis tournament.

For each accomplishment, describe what you did, i.e., the role you played and your relationship with others (member of the team, working alone, leader, etc.), the subject matter, the skills used, etc. Next, notice the threads that run through the stories to discover things you do well and also find satisfying.

Next, you will want to analyze your Seven Stories. Answer the following questions for each of your Seven Stories:
Story #1: __________________________________________________________
1) What was your main accomplishment?
2) What about it did you enjoy the most?
3) What did you do best?
4) What was your key motivator?
5) What led up to it?
6) What role did you play?
7) What was the environment like?
8) What was the subject matter?

Next, identify the skills you used in each of your Seven Stories. Here are a few examples to get the juices flowing: administration, analyzing, client relations, coordinating, fundraising, leadership, organization, research, teamwork, training, troubleshooting. Tally up how many times you selected each skill that you identified in your Seven Stories. Do some skills show up in many of your Seven Stories? That will be key in determining which activities you would find the most satisfying going forward.

Source: Navigating Your Career: Develop Your Plan, Manage Your Boss, Get Another Job Inside by Kate Wendleton.

Staying marketable through networking

Being and staying marketable is important for every careerist today. What are your career goals and what steps can you take to get a job, keep a job, or move up?

One of the most important keys to success for careerists today is to build and maintain your network.  It's vital for job seekers, folks that want to advance, and even those who want to keep your job.

It's easy for job seekers to sit behind your computer all day responding to job postings. While that should be one your job search strategies, networking should be a bigger piece. And when you do find a job online, always take it a step further and see if there's someone in your network that either works at that company or knows someone that does. Remember, employers like to hire people they know and people that come referred to them. Job postings can provide some valuable insight into what companies and industries are hiring.

If you're looking to advance in your career, be sure to develop and nurture your internal network. Keep your boss and your boss's boss apprised of your accomplishments. Once a week go out to lunch or coffee with a colleague. Volunteer to work on special projects. Don't gossip about your co-workers.

Let's say you're working for a company and you want to make sure you're doing everything you can to keep your job. Be sure to network with folks in your department and also from other departments. At some point, there may be an opening you want to go after in another department.

Determining Your Ideal Work Environment

How satisfied are in your current job? If you were to rate your satisfaction level on a scale from 1 to 10 with 10 being high, where do you see yourself? Get clear on where there may be some gaps in your current job. Take a look at the following list of questions in different categories and jot down your thoughts:

Physical surroundings/location:

• Are you in an office or are you moving from one place to another?
• If you are in an office, describe its appearance.
• Is it a formal or informal environment:
• Are there distractions or is it quiet?
• Are you is isolated or surrounded by people?
• How do you get to work?

People:

• What kind of people do you work with, e.g., creative, energetic, technical, or mechanical:
• Do you prefer to work with many people or a few?
• Do you socialize with your colleagues outside of work?

Activities:

• Are are you working with other people, equipment, or information?
• Are you managing or directing people?
• Are you reading reports?
• Do you attend meetings regularly?
• Are you responsible for complete tasks or are you responsible for a piece of a task?
• Do you attend meetings of external professional associations?
• How much do you travel?
• Are you a decision maker?
• How much freedom do you have to carry out your responsibilities?

Style:

• Are people formal or informal in how they relate to each other?
• What type of management style is typical?
• Do people prefer to communicate mainly through talking or in writing?
• What are people wearing?

Recognition/rewards:

• What types of recognition do you receive?
• How are you rewarded?
• Are monetary rewards based on individual or team performance?
• What are your work hours?
• Do you have flexible work hours?

The above questions will help you determine what area or areas might be causing you to feel less than satisfied in your current job. Having this clarity can help you determine what steps you can take to improve those areas in your current job or move on to another job.

Source: Navigating Your Career: Develop Your Plan, Manage Your boss, Get Another Job Inside by Kate Wendleton.

Are you promotable?

Are you looking for a promotion? If so, what steps are you taking to climb the proverbial career ladder?

The first thing you'll want to do is develop a career development plan. If you don't know where you're going, how are you going to get there? Take time to take stock of your strengths and where you would like your career to take you. Knowing your long-range career goals can help you stay on track and position yourself for each next rung on the ladder. Do you need to acquire some new skills? Do you need additional training or certifications?

Be visible at work. Be sure to keep your boss and your boss's boss apprised of your accomplishments. Throughout the year, keep track of you "career kudos." This will make it much easier for you to "sell" your idea of a promotion when you have a discussion with your manager.

You also may want to consider receiving feedback on your personal brand. The 360Reach personal branding survey is an excellent tool that allows you to receive feedback from friends, family, colleagues, and others that know you well. The beauty of this type of 360 tool is that it is a true 360 because you receive feedback from more than just your work colleagues. Having this external feedback will allow you to see how you are being perceived by others and take steps to expand those areas you want to be seen as and work on diminishing those areas that may get in the way of your career success.

Media Impacts Career Choice for Females

I am very excited to have been invited and accepted into a train-the-trainer program designed to teach administrators, teachers, and counselors strategies to increase the number of females in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. If you haven't heard this acronym yet, you surely will soon. Many initiatives have been developed over the last few years to increase the number of females (and males) in STEM. Why? These fields are expected to grow at a very fast rate over the next several years, and in order for the U.S. to remain competitive in the global marketplace, we need more people entering STEM.

When considering career options for yourself, your child, or exploring with your client, don't forget about STEM. Not all STEM jobs require sitting behind a desk or being locked in a laboratory all day. Many offer opportunities to make a difference and help others.

Many reasons contribute to why females often don't consider STEM fields- from socialization to gender stereotypes. Gender stereotypes are portrayed rampantly in the media. Just turn on the TV or open a magazine and you will see females depicted in traditional gender roles, e.g., the ones who most often cook the meals and clean the house. Toys advertised to girls include dolls while toys promoted to boys include building blocks and tools. This week a video has been popping up all over the place that that depicts three bored young girls watching a TV commercial. The commercial starts out promoting what advertisers "think" is most appealing to all females and then switches to what some young females would prefer. It's an eye-opener! Check it out here.

Step Up Your Networking during the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us. With holiday parties and family gatherings in abundance, you are provided with ample opportunities to network with family, friends,  current or former colleagues, etc. Whether you're in a job search or not, building and maintaining your network is a critical career management tool.

Be prepared to network by carrying business cards with you. If you're in a job search, have business cards printed which include your name, email address, phone number, customized LinkedIn URL, and job target. As you make new connections, be sure to invite them to connect with you on LinkedIn.

Many job-seekers slow down their job search during the holidays. This is a actually a good time for you to step up your job search. Why? There's less competition.

Hate to Network or Cold Call? Great Resource for Job Seekers!

I just read a fantastic book called, "100 Conversations for Career Success" by Laura M. Labovich and Miriam Salpeter. The authors share great tips to help you learn to network, cold call, and tweet your way to your dream job. Many of my clients cringe at the idea of networking and cold calling (can't blame them on the last one). This book takes all of the stress out of doing any of these activities.

This easy to read book includes scripts on how to handle a networking event and follow-up, how to handle a cold call with no lead or with a lead, how to communicate on LinkedIn and other social media, and so much more.

To give you a glimpse into the book, I'd like to share a tidbit that I found very valuable. If you're in a job search, personalize your outgoing message. The authors share this example:

"Hello. This is Sam Browning, human resources and training expert. I'm sorry I can't take your call now. Please leave your name and number, and I'll get back to you as soon as possible." Another example would be to also include your email address.

If you're in a job search, I highly recommend this book!

Brand YOU: How to Stand Out from Your Competition and Land Your Next Job

Last week I presented a workshop titled, "Brand YOU: How to Stand Out from Your Competition and Land Your Next Job" to about 100 job seekers. Identifying your brand is critical in a job search. If you and your competition have the same table stakes to get into the game, i.e., the same number of years of experience and education level, what is it about you that can tip the scales in your favor? Not sure? It's time to figure it out.

During a job interview, it's easy to list off a bunch of adjectives when asked, "Tell me about yourself." I encourage you to give examples that demonstrate you are a good problem-solver, possess good communication skills, etc. What's skills and attributes are important for the job you are targeting? What do you have that matches? That's what you want to highlight. And again, take it a step further and provide "proof."

One of my clients works in collections- and we KNOW what kind of reputation THEY have. Well, this client has actually received thank you letters from some of the folks she has called on. Why? Because of the way she handles people who are in dire straits. Her genuine concern and empathy shines through. This has become an important (and authentic) part of her personal brand.

Want to know more about personal branding? Check out this link for a video and access to a 'basic' version of the 360Reach personal branding survey.

Volunteering Can Help Open Doors

Whether you're looking for a new job, want to advance to the next level, give back, or simply add some spice to your life, volunteering can help! Volunteering allows you the opportunity to expand your network, learn valuable skills, and much more.

Several years ago I was in a job that wasn't satisfying any longer. As an outlet from my ho-hum job, I searched out volunteer opportunities and found a Twin Cities based non-profit that was seeking volunteer resume consultants. I was trained for the position and once a month I met with women who were in a job search, providing them constructive feedback on how to make themselves more marketable through their resume. I loved it! Six months later this non-profit had a job opening as an assessment/placement specialist working with women who were interested in the organization's six-week pre-apprenticeship program. I was hired! The volunteer experience allowed some of the staff to get to know me and "put in a good word" to the hiring manager. Don't underestimate the value of volunteering. It can help you gain visibility to leading influencers and develop new skills.

Branding and your job search

A job search can be tough! If you and your competition have the same table stakes to get into the game, what can tip the scales in your favor? It's your personal brand. Let's say you've got an interview coming up. What do you think you might have in common with the other candidates? Is it the same number of years of experience? Could it be having experience in the same industry? What about your brand can help you be seen as the ideal candidate? Not sure, it's time to figure that out!

Review the job posting and compare the employer's requirements against your qualifications. Let's say they're looking for someone that is computer savvy. Perhaps one of the things you could capitalize on is the fact that you've developed several websites. If it's relevant to the job for which you are applying, you'll want to mention this in your cover letter and/or resume. What other skills or personal attributes can you leverage to position yourself as the ideal candidate?

Time for a Career Check-Up?

We're nearing the end of the year! What career goals did you set for yourself this year? Are you on track? It's important to take time at the beginning of each year to set some goals- and put them to paper! Just the act of writing down your goals increases your chance of achieving them. Then each month review your goals to see if you're on track and make any necessary adjustments.

One of my career goals for the year was to land a new contract with an outplacement agency, i.e., one that helps laid-off workers. And, I'm happy to report I achieved that goal just last month! How about you? What goals did you achieve? For the ones you didn't reach, what adjustments can you make to the goal or what action steps can you take to achieve those goals?

To help assess where you're at in your career, take this career check-up. This exercise can help identify any gaps that may get in the way of your career success. You can then determine what action steps you can take to close those gaps.

What I learned about myself in Tahiti

Last week I returned from my honeymoon in Tahiti staying on two islands- Bora Bora and Moorea. What a absolutely beautiful and magical place!

Many of the people that live and work on the islands are either native Tahitians or natives of France. Since Tahiti is French Polynesia, it's easy for the French to work on any of the islands of Tahiti. The manager of the hotel we stayed at in Bora Bora, a native of France, has lived on that island for 15 years. Since she was a child, she always dreamed of living there. I asked what she does when not working and she said she does what visitors do, kayaks and snorkels. There are no shopping malls. If she wants to purchase any clothing other than a swimsuit or pareo (sarong), she shops "back home" in France when she visits family there once a year. Although, she said, "I wear my uniform at work and on my off-time I'm usually in my swimsuit." What a nice lifestyle!

What did I learn about myself during this experience? It's good to totally unplug occasionally. I didn't check my email at all while in Tahiti. It felt so freeing- and I was able to be totally present! I usually go 100 miles an hour and I learned it's good to slow down once in awhile. While on the island of Moorea, at least twice a day. I just reclined on a patio chair and watched the birds.

Time for a reality check?

Are your Sundays spent dreading Monday? Are you in a secure job, but one that doesn't fulfill you? Is fear holding you back from making a change? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you're not alone.

It's easy to become complacent when you're in a job that you could do in your sleep or that pays well. A part of us may want to make a change, but then that nagging voice tells us, "I've got it made; I earn a good income. I SHOULD be happy" OR "I'm not sure I want to invest in discovering new options because of the money or time involved." So, you spend months, even years, being less than happy in your job. Plus, you're probably not giving your full 100% or more to the company.

It starts with a first step. Start to discover or re-discover your interests, skills, work values, etc. to determine if a new career would be a good move or if you could find more success and satisfaction in your current job or even a different position within your current company.

Sign up for my free teleclass, "Top 3 Myths of Career Success & 10 Keys to Becoming a Career Conqueror."

Tips for Moving Up the Proverbial Career Ladder

Let's say you've been in the same position for a few years now and you're ready to move up. You've done a great job, but you no longer find it challenging. How can you position yourself for a promotion? Here are some tips that can help:

1) Increase your visibility. Be sure to network within your own department and with those from other departments and even other divisions.

2) Let your boss know you want to advance. Your boss isn't a mind-reader. And, your boss may be too busy to notice you're not being stretched anymore. Tell your boss of your desire to move up and why you're a good candidate.

3) Keep track of your accomplishments and keep your boss and your boss's boss apprised of your them. Many folks feel like they're bragging when they do this. I encourage you to reframe it as "just stating the facts."

4)Volunteer to work on a special project. This will demonstrate that you have initiative and want more out of your job than just a paycheck.

Moving up the proverbial career ladder requires action- your action! Incorporate the above tips and start climbing!

Grab a copy of "Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!

Container Lessons: A Fable by Sydney A. Paredes

A fellow coach wrote and shared the following fable with me. The story is a great analogy for how we put people into containers, i.e., traditional gender roles.

There were jars and bowls and pitchers and various containers all around the land. Everyone knew that container know-how was the most important competence anyone could have.

In early days of school, even in preschool, the teachers began container lessons. For the littlest children, the most popular way to teach was to help them choose just the right container for a caterpillar – or later for a butterfly – and to help them pay attention to which food belonged in exactly which shape and size of container. Everyone knew by age six that jello always belonged in a 9-oz round or 32 oz round basic containers with round lids in milky white color that still let you see a hint of red or green or orange or yellow color based on what flavor of jello was in the container. It was equally important to put olives and pickles in small square 3-oz containers with clear lids that let you see inside but kept any errant liquid from leaking out.

Leaking was a sure sign that one’s container acumen was lacking or that their pride in their containership was low.

There was a specific container for socks in one’s dresser drawer, too, to keep them neat and tidy and easily accessible. Even dinner plates had containers built in so that each food would stay separated while you ate.

There were specific containers for transportation depending on how much money a family had to spend or where they chose to live. And containers for living space, too. There were containers within containers so that little Johnny and little Susie knew their place and space when it was time to go to bed.

It could be tricky for container illiterates, especially when people came together in large container spaces – sometimes called family rooms or dining rooms. The most popular strategy to help people manage was to have each person assigned a particular chair container in a particular space around the table. If a family was consistent in their container practices, the times when people came together stayed appropriately contained.

These are just a few examples. Be assured that in some way, shape, or form, everyone and everything could be contained.

One bright spring day, upon her twelfth birthday, Susie Smith had a dream that shook her to her very soul. In her dream, dinner plates had NO containers, so the juice from the peas ran into the juice from the roast beef. People stared in horror at their plates, forks and spoons suspended in mid air. Some picked at areas where the food was still contained. Others just stared at their food and looked around uncomfortably to see what they should do.

Now Susie, in her own dream, was coaxing the peas into the roast beef and purposely making sure some of each was in her spoon. Then to everyone’s astonishment, she put her spoon in her mouth!

“Yum!” She exclaimed. “This tastes really good.”

Then Susie noticed everyone staring at her in disgust.

“How could you?” said her father. “Have you no sense of shame? No sense of honor? No loyalty?”

“It would be better to not eat at all,” said Susie’s father, “than to blatantly ignore rules of containment!”

“I’ll die if I don’t nourish myself”, replied Susie, her momentary joy of the new taste replaced by fear and sadness.

“I know,” said her father. “At least you would die honorably.”

Labor Day has me thinking of my worst job

When I was seventeen years old, my sister and I both landed jobs working in a turkey factory. Yep, that's right, a turkey factory! We drove 60 miles one way for our less than glamorous jobs. Each morning we put on rubber boots, a hairnet, white apron, rubber gloves, and safety glasses and worked in frigid conditions. My job was at the end of line and required scooping out who knows what from turkey carcasses. My sister and I realized very quickly that this wasn't the career for us. Four days later we quit!

How about you? What was your worst job?

Is your mindset getting in the way of your success?

It's amazing how powerful your mindset can be and what impact it can have on whether you reach your goals or not. Have you taken time to uncover any limiting beliefs that may be getting in your way of true success? You may not even be aware of some of those beliefs, but you can be sure they are stopping you from achieving what you say you want in your career or life. Below are some questions to ask yourself and tips to move from limiting to limitless.

1. It starts with awareness. Identify your self-talk. What negative thoughts are you saying to yourself, about yourself? When considering going after a promotion, do you say to yourself, "I'll never be considered." or "I'm not smart enough."

2. Next, how do you act out those negative thoughts? Do they keep you from going after that promotion? Do they stop you from learning new skills to be marketable for that promotion?

3. What feelings come up when you think those thoughts and act (or don't act) on them? Do you tell yourself, "I'm not good enough?"

4. Next, write down your "bully" beliefs and then next to them, write down your "buoyant" beliefs [positive beliefs] about what you can do. Using the example in #1: Bully belief: "I'm not smart enough." Buoyant belief: "I am smart and I am continually gaining new skills to make me more marketable."

5. Finally, brainstorm options for action, then prioritize, and commit to the best options that align with your goal. For example, I will join Toastmasters to improve my speaking, listening, and leadership skills. I will take a self-assessment to uncover my preferred leadership style to learn more about myself.

It's important to manage your mindset whether you're in a job search, want to advance in your career, or simply be more satisfied and successful in your current job.

Want to become a career conqueror? Sign up for my free teleclass "Top 3 Myths of Career Success & 10 Keys to Becoming a Career Conqueror."

Use professional associations to expand your career and network

I recently spoke at a conference for HR professionals who are relatively new to their career. I was so impressed by their desire to grow professionally. During the day, participants had the opportunity to listen to a panel of successful seasoned HR professionals share their career journey and provide words of wisdom. Three career coaches, of which I was one, delivered presentations designed to help participants effectively manage their career. My presentation "10 Keys to Becoming a Career Conqueror" included the importance of having a vision for your career, identifying and capitalizing on your personal brand, and expanding your network. After the conference, many of the participants reached out to connect with me on LinkedIn. It's vital to build and maintain your network now and throughout your career. It's also important to consider who you want in your network and seek ways to connect with them, both online and offline.

If you're just starting out in your career or want to make sure you stay on track, what professional associations do you need to join? It's important to stay current with your current field, and if you're just starting out or want to change careers or industries, it's important to learn more about that particular field or industry. Remember, you need to take charge of your own career!

Don't miss my upcoming teleclass, "Top 3 Myths of Career Success & 10 Keys to Becoming a Career Conqueror." Also, grab a copy of my free eBook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!

Tips to Keep Your Network Alive

Reach out to one contact per day. Rather than thinking WIIFM (what’s in it for me), what can you do to help your contacts? What value can you bring to your network contacts? Not sure? Ask! And, what are some activities you can do to keep your network alive? Try out the following:

·         Schedule coffee or lunch

·        Find natural touch points, e.g., birthday or holiday

·         Email a link to an article or website they find of interest

·         Create a status update on LinkedIn

·         “Like” or comment on a contact’s status update

·         Endorse a contact on LinkedIn

·        Write a recommendation for a contact on LinkedIn

·         Post or respond to a question for a group on LinkedIn

·         Invite a contact to join you at an upcoming conference

·         Connect someone to another person

Add value to you contacts. When you meet someone new, find out what they could use help with. If you know someone in your network that can help a new connection with a problem, go ahead and provide an introduction.  

Create a networking fund. Automatically set aside a small amount of money that will pay for coffees, lunches, etc.

Set a Networking Goal

Whether you're in a job search, advance to the next level, or simply manage your career effectively, it's important to network!

When you attend a networking event, go with a goal in mind. Your goal could be to meet 3 new people and reconnect with 3 people you already know. Having a goal will help you feel like you accomplished something- and you did! When you make new contacts, be sure to send them an invitation to connect on LinkedIn.  

Keep in mind that it takes time to develop, nurture, and expand your relationships. According to Thom Singer, author of “Some Assembly Required: How to Make, Grow, and Keep Your Business Relationships,” it takes 7-10 meaningful interactions to create an effective networking relationship.” Many people don't like networking because they feel like they're doing all of the taking, especially if they're in a job search. One way to get around that is to think about how you can help the other person. Ask that person if there is someone you can introduce him or her to or what they may need help with. 

 

 

Create a Networking Plan

To ensure you get the results you want from networking, create a plan. Some things to consider:
1) What are your current career goals? Are you in job search mode or career management mode? Or perhaps you’re seeking to advance to the next level?

2) What information are you seeking at this time? Is it connections within your target field, industry, or company? Are you trying to make connections with industry or thought leaders? Are you gathering information about a specific company, industry, or field?

3) What venues can you tap into to gather this information? Is it a professional association, a job transition group, or maybe a Chamber of Commerce event?

4) What are your weekly, monthly, and quarterly networking goals? Spend some time figuring out how many networking events you want to attend each week and how many 1:1’s you want to do. The amount will depend on your current career goals.

Remember, it's important to network whether you're in a job search, want to advance to the next level, or simply manage your career effectively.

Grab a copy of my free eBook, "Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!"

 

Creating a System for Networking Contacts

Having a drawer full of business cards can be overwhelming. Create a system that will help you maintain regular contact with your network. Microsoft Outlook, Excel, or JibberJobber are just a few programs that you can use.  How do your contacts prefer to stay in contact? If you’re not sure, ask. Some folks may prefer email, while others may like a phone call or a thoughtful card. Add that information into your contact management system. Be sure to add a reminder to follow-up with your contacts on a specified date.

And what ever system you use, make sure to “circle back” to the person who introduced you. You will be amazed by the feedback you get when you call or email someone saying something like “I really enjoyed meeting your friend Jane Doe the other day. She was very helpful. Thanks again and let me know how I can help you.”        

Grab a copy of my free eBook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!                              

Prioritizing Your Networking Contacts

          

 Managing your contacts can be overwhelming. You may want to consider prioritizing your contacts into “A’s”, “B’s”, or “C’s” according to the level of influence they may have on your job search or your career. You’ll want key influencers on your “A” list. This could include recruiters, hiring managers, industry leaders, and well-connected former co-workers in your field. Keep in contact with your “A’s” more frequently than those in the other categories.

Your “B” list can include family and friends, and professionals such as your hairstylist, doctor, and dentist, etc. The latter come in contact with a large number of people on a regular basis. You will naturally be in somewhat regular contact with your immediate family and close friends. Your contact with your hairstylist will typically be every 4-8 weeks, and your doctor and dentist at least annually, if not more often.

Your “C” list may include those professionals and others that you meet through networking events and other activities. They may not have much influence for you in your career. You may not decide to keep in contact with these folks.

Which phase of the job search or which phase of your career will determine the frequency of contact with each group. And, you may find that some contacts may shift from “A” to “B” etc., depending on your needs.

In my next blog post, I will share tips on creating a system to manage your contacts.

Grab a copy of my free eBook, "Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!"

Expand Your Network = Career Success

Besides who is currently in your network, it’s also important to also consider who you want in your network. Here is a short list of different groups of people you may want to add to your network.

•             Industry leaders

•             Thought leaders

•             Community leaders

•             Individuals from other industries

•             People who work at your targeted companies

Don’t stick with just people of your gender. Diversify! Women tend to have a smaller network and one made up primarily of women. This situation can limit their options, since more men occupy positions of higher authority.

Here are some avenues to help you identify names of people that you want in your network:

•             Read local newspapers

•             Read trade publications

•             Company websites

•             Create Google alerts based on keywords

•             Check out LinkedIn groups related to your field and industry

•             Ask people you know who they think you should know

•             Create a list of names at target companies

•             Join job transition groups

Whether you are in a job search or want to effectively manage your career, it’s important to continue expanding your network.

Want to increase career success and satisfaction? Register for my upcoming free teleclass, "Top 3 Myths of Career Success & 10 Keys to Becoming a Career Conqueror!"

How Big is Your Network?

Whether you're in a job search, advance to the next level, or just manage your career, it's important to network. The first step in networking is to determine who you already have in your network. I have heard statistics that each of us knows at least 250 people. That sounds like an astounding large number; however all of those people aren’t your best friends.

Your network can include people that you know really well and some that you know more casually. Take a look at the list below to help you get started creating a list of people in your network:

•             Family

•             Friends

•             Co-workers

•             Former co-workers

•             Vendors & suppliers

•             Customers

•             Classmates 

•             Former classmates

•             Parents of your children’s friends

•             Church members

•             Health club members

•             Professionals such as your doctor, dentist, hairstylist

 

In my next blog post, I'll explore who you may want in your network and tips on finding those people.

 

Grab a copy of my free eBook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!

 

Network to Climb the Proverbial Career Ladder

Want to advance to the next level? Get on the radar screen of career influencers to set yourself up for a promotion.

How networking can help you….

1.     Be seen as an integral part of the company.

2.     Become well known within your industry.

3.     Be seen as a subject matter expert.

4.     Expand your network.

5.     Keep your network alive. 

If you’re serious about your career and want to move up to the next level, networking can help make that happen! Let’s say you’ve noticed someone who has successfully advanced in their career. Ask that person if he or she will brainstorm with you for 15 minutes over the phone about how you can move up from your current position. 

It’s not always about who you know, it’s about who knows you. Who are the movers and shakers in your industry? Career influencers are those people who can hire you or introduce you to others who could potentially hire you. They are those people who can champion you- past managers and past customers who know you are great! A career influencer can also be a mentor; someone who has a career path that you want and has the connections and experience needed to help you do the same.  Reach out to that person and say, “I’ve admired how you have transitioned into various roles and I would love to hear how you did it.” 

How can you get on the radar screen of someone who can influence your career? What professional associations do they belong to? Join those associations and get involved. Don’t just merely be a member. Step up to the plate and volunteer to serve on a special committee. Volunteer to register members at the monthly meeting. This will help you start to put names to faces. Consider serving on the board. This will help you gain visibility and credibility within your industry and demonstrate your leadership skills. Create a presentation that would be beneficial to the members of this professional association and volunteer to be a speaker at a monthly meeting or special interest group. 

Social media is a good strategy to position yourself as an expert in your field and convey your personal brand. It can also help you get noticed by recruiters and hiring managers. Join groups related to your field and industry. Post questions, respond to questions, and get on the radar screen of career influencers. But remember, social media today can be a source for companies to view your activity as well. Keep it positive and informative. And certainly, no fowl language.  Later you will learn tips on how to expand your network and keep your network alive.

 

 

Grab a copy of my free eBook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!

Networking to Keep Your Job

Networking can help you increase your visibility up, down, and across your current organization. Networking can help you...

1.     Be seen as an integral part of the company.

2.     Become known as a subject matter expert.

3.     Expand your network.

     4.  Keep your network alive. 

While some may reserve networking for times when they’re in a job search, others are continually working to build and maintain their network for career insurance- to keep their current job. How about you?  

Networking can happen right at work! Network with those above you, below you, and those at your same level and with individuals from other departments and other divisions. Keep your network appraised of your accomplishments. Did you just

finish a big project? Let your boss and your boss’s boss know about it. Let’s say

you meet your boss’s boss in the elevator and she or he says, “Hi, how are you doing?” Rather than simply saying “fine” say, “I’m doing great, now that I just finished the Acme project two weeks ahead of schedule and under budget.” Toot your own horn! If you don’t, who will? It’s important for others to see you as an integral part of the company; someone who goes and above and beyond their job duties. Remember, your co-workers may have a family member or friend that is looking for a new job or a connection. Imagine there impression of you, when you can demonstrate that you can help them, even if it’s only an introduction or a tip. 

Are you particularly knowledgeable about a certain area of your field? If so, make sure others at your company know that. If you’re not a subject matter expert, what can you do to become one? Do you need an advanced degree or a certification or maybe take a class? Once you’ve taken the steps to becoming a subject matter expert, let others at work know what you’re working toward. 

Set up coffee or lunch dates with your peers and other colleagues. Later you will learn more tips for expanding your network and keeping it alive. 

If you’re not already a member, join LinkedIn. Monitor activities of your network and when you see they’ve posted an update, ping them or call them. It can be as simple as “Congratulations on the new promotion or new LinkedIn recommendation.”  

If you were to lose your job today, who are the ten people you would reach out to for advice on your job search? Don’t wait until you are laid off to reach out to them. Contact them today! Set up a coffee or lunch date.

 

Grab a copy of my free eBook, "Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!"

 

Network: Jump Start Your Job Search & Get a Job You Love Faster

Networking can help you….

1.     Get the word out that you are in a job search.

2.     Gain advice about your job search techniques.

3.     Uncover job leads in the “hidden job market.”

4.     Get referrals to other individuals or organizations that you’re targeting.

5.     Learn more about specific positions, fields, or industries.

6.     Gather information about specific companies.

7.     Expand your network. 

8.     Keep your current network alive while meeting new people.

9.     Help others get what they want, even if it’s a warm introduction from you.

It’s important to let your network know that you are in a job search. They can’t help you if they don’t know! And without clearly defined job targets, i.e., specific positions, industries, and companies you are seeking, it can be even harder for your network to help. Job seekers often tell me, “I’m open. I’ll work for any company or industry.” While that may be true, the more focused you are, the better your job search; the easier you make it for others to help you.   

Your network can provide you feedback on your job search techniques and refer you to other individuals or organizations. They can also offer insight into a new position, field, or industry if you are contemplating a job or career change. And, your network can share with you what it’s like to work at a particular company.

Many job openings aren’t advertised. Considered the “hidden job market,” it’s your job to uncover those leads. Employers oftentimes go to their employees for referrals when trying to fill an open position. Imagine if your name was recommended. It clearly puts you in front of other candidates. I encourage my clients to create a list of target companies and then do an advanced search on LinkedIn to identify contacts that work at those companies. Oftentimes it’s your second or third level contacts that are going to be most helpful in your search. Ask your first level contacts to introduce you to your second level contacts that work at your target companies.  

Harvey MacKay, business guru, and author of Use Your Head to Get Your Foot in the Door and Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty, encourages those just laid-off to immediately start volunteering. Consider volunteering on a high-profile fundraising event for a local charity. Not only will it allow you the opportunity to develop or fine-tune your leadership, fundraising, and/or speaking skills, it will give you a chance to network with people in high places. It will also give you a reason to get out of the house, make you feel much better, PLUS, when you’re asked, and you will be asked “What have you been doing since your last job?” Now you have an opening line………"I’ve been volunteering………….."

 

Grab a copy of my free eBook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 Big Reasons to Network

Networking is critical to your career success. There are many reasons to network throughout your career. Here are the 3 big reasons:

1. Jump start your job search. You will want to network to get a job you love faster and to strengthen your personal brand.

2. Keep your job. You want to ensure your employer that you are providing them a ROI and more! You also want to strengthen your relationship with co-workers.

3. Advance to the next level. You want to get on the radar screen of career influencers to set yourself up for a promotion. You also want to be seen as talent that is connected to the industry and a leader.

So, wherever you're at in your career, make networking an integral part of your career management.

Grab a copy of my free ebook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!

What Networking Is & Isn't

“You will get all you want in life, if you help enough other people get what they want.”  - Zig Ziglar

Networking is not about collecting business cards, but rather building relationships over time. If you are uncomfortable with networking, it may help to change your perspective of networking. Take the focus off of you and think of networking as an opportunity to help someone else. And, by helping others, you will improve your personal brand and your networking skills.

Networking may mean many different things to each of us. A friend of mine, Shane Smith, has helped to start networking groups in the Minneapolis area, helping thousands of people. As he explains it, networking is about giving, or paying it forward. He has put in countless hours helping others since 1995 and I can only imagine how many people would be willing to help him if he asked. “But it’s not about just getting LinkedIn with someone; it’s “connecting” with them and finding ways to stay in touch,” says Shane.

Rule No. 1 when networking, according to Shane:  “Understand what networking truly is. You must give. Be a personal and professional resource for others and expect nothing in return."

 

For more networking tips, grab a copy of my free eBook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Work Relationships Extend Beyond Work

I met a friend for coffee this morning. Jill was telling me that she had a going away party to attend this coming week. I asked if it was a co-worker, and she replied, "No, one of my bus mates." Jill rides the bus to her job in the Twin Cities. She has created some strong friendships as a result of sitting beside and across from the same people on the bus for several years. In fact, I met Jill through a friend whose husband was a bus mate of hers. Jill commented that when someone was "missing" for a few days, they would ask each other if they knew what was up with the missing person. She said that she started to make sure she announced an upcoming vacation so her bus mates wouldn't worry about her.

Jill mentioned that more recently the bus mates were now riding on a different bus, with a different bus seat configuration. This new seat arrangement has impacted the friendships. No longer were they sitting across from each other, but in front of or back of each other.  

I thought it is so interesting that our work relationships can extend to the people we sit next to on the bus. The commonality of proximity can create friendships which otherwise might be unlikely.

Ditch. Dare. Do! Brand Calculator

How does your personal brand stand now? Are you a potential brand, rising brand, super brand, or even a mega brand? Take this abbreviated quiz and find out. Select Yes or No for each item below.

1.     Can you state your top five brand attributes—the most relevant and compelling adjectives that describe you?  Yes    No 

2.       Have you identified and documented your short- and long-term career goals?  Yes    No 

3.       Do you know what those around you would identify as your greatest strength?  Yes    No 

4.       Do you have a “So what? Make me care!” brand positioning statement that describes what you offer, and for whom, how you are different, and what value/ROI (return on investment) your differentiation creates?  Yes    No 

5.       Can you clearly describe your target audience—those people who need to know about you so that you can achieve your goals?  Yes    No 

6.       Do you have a home on the web that showcases your success, such as your own website, personal portal (i.e., about.me or flavors.me), etc.?  Yes    No 

7.       Do you infuse every project meeting, report, etc. with your personal brand – with what you want to be known for?  Yes    No 

8.       Have you proactively done something valuable for a member of your network this week?  Yes    No 

9.       Do you have a trusted focus group of peers, managers, or clients to provide honest personal brand feedback?  Yes    No 

10.   Do you have an area of thought leadership or specific point of view for which you are known?  Yes    No 

Scoring

 

Add up the number of times you selected Yes and see where your brand stands.

0-3 – Potential Brand

4-6 – Rising Brand

7-9 – Super Brand

10 –  Mega Brand

 

If you're not a Mega Brand, what steps can you take to up your score? Check out the book, "Ditch. Dare. Do!" for ideas to turn your brand up!

Grab a copy of my free eBook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!