Every week, NETSHARE hosts Ask the Coach, a phone-in coaching session with leading career management experts. Here is an excerpt from the most recent session with Peter Engler, president of the Engler Career Group.
There is a new phenomenon emerging with the economic downturn. More job seekers are finding themselves out of work for the first time, and frankly, most of them are out of step with the way job search works today. If you have been actively employed for the last 10 or 20 years and suddenly find yourself out of work, what are you supposed to do? Are there guidelines?
In this week’s coaching call, Peter explained that there are rules and guidelines, but that what works for one job seeker won’t work for another. He said that joining NETSHARE is a great place to begin. There are lots of resources available through NETSHARE, as well as exclusive job listings.
The first step is to identify what you are really looking for. Remember, companies don’t want to hear “I can do anything.” Peter noted that Kathy Simmons NETSHARE welcome call is a great way to help you focus. She can help you fine-tune your search and make valuable connections. If you have been with NETSHARE for a while, you might consider joining a call for a tune up.
Peter also offered some additional thoughts to help you get focused:
1. Decide where you want to live. If you are an experienced executive and have paid your dues, you should be able to live where you wish.
2. Be aware that many companies prefer to deal with local candidates. They don’t want to pay for relocation and want someone with local contacts, so plan accordingly.
3. Consider talking to a career coach. They can help you fine tune your value messages and show you how to promote yourself and your skills. They can help you identify and reach your goals.
4. Network! You should always be networking, but you certainly need to reach out and share with your network what you are doing now. Bring them up to date on your skills and where you are looking to ply them. You’d be surprised how many new jobs started with leads from the clerk at the grocery, your mail carrier, or the receptionist at your beauty salon.
5. Identify the companies you want to work with. Draw a circle in a 30-mile radius on your map and start reaching out. Identify board members, key executives, hiring managers, and be proactive. Writer letters, explain that you respect the company and have identified a problem that you are uniquely qualified to solve. Set a time to discuss a meeting and then call!
