I came across an article this weekend about a "mystery couple" in Philadelphia who walked into a restaurant, ate their meal, and quietly gave their waitress enough money to pay for another random couple's meal. This in turn set off a chain reaction of giving, as other diners began to pay it forward. Although it really didn't cost much to inspire a random act of generosity, the results were so profound that a national news organization like MSNBC picked up the story.
Another aspect of giving that has been prominent in the news this year is the fact that charities across the nation have experienced a drop in donations and giving. Although you may not have the extra money to donate this year, it may be as easy as giving a few cans of food or donating your time in a soup kitchen. I was particularly interested to read about Lanny Green, who rings the bell for Salvation Army in Arlington, Va. - and is homeless himself. The Salvation Army pays him a small hourly wage, but he "gets it" - he knows this job gives him a chance to help himself AND help someone else.
This year, everyone is trying to make Christmas special on a low budget. As you rush to and from the mall, remember to take a moment to give of your time, your resources, your expertise, or just showing a bit more patience than usual with long lines and overwhelmed cashiers. Happy Holidays!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
The Holiday Job Search - Give Up Or Step It Up?
Job searching during the Holidays can seem daunting, but a recent New York Times article suggests that there are still plenty of opportunities out there for the motivated seeker.
So why should you keep pushing your resume while hiring managers are celebrating at company holiday parties? The article states:
"This is actually one of the best times of the year to look for a job, said Ford R. Myers, a career coach, author and president of Career Potential in the Philadelphia area. Partly, that is because most people do take a holiday break, some starting with a laissez-faire attitude as early as Thanksgiving. This leaves a wider opening for those who persevere, Mr. Myers said.
At this time of year, the hiring managers who are in the office tend to be more accessible, more relaxed and less busy than usual, Mr. Myers said. And the holidays can unleash a spirit of generosity toward job hunters that is lacking at other times, he added."
As you continue your search, I would suggest that you identify multiple points of contact with a potential employer, including their executive assistant, desk phone, cell phone, email, Facebook, Twitter, and their mailing address for a handwritten note. Technology has provided us with a variety of ways to stay on someone's radar, and it is up to you to take advantage of your options. But more importantly, make sure you provide substance in your outreach.
Send a Christmas card, attach a relevant article to your email or mention that you heard about their recent achievement through a mutual contact. Your outreach must ADD VALUE and provide incentive for them to respond.
I usually say that the best time to call someone is on a Friday. And with this being the week before Christmas, guess what? Most every day between now and January will feel like a Friday. So instead of giving up, step up your efforts over the next few weeks!
Assess your options, make a phone call, send a Christmas card, and set up a meeting for January. You just might catch someone in the holiday spirit of giving!
So why should you keep pushing your resume while hiring managers are celebrating at company holiday parties? The article states:
"This is actually one of the best times of the year to look for a job, said Ford R. Myers, a career coach, author and president of Career Potential in the Philadelphia area. Partly, that is because most people do take a holiday break, some starting with a laissez-faire attitude as early as Thanksgiving. This leaves a wider opening for those who persevere, Mr. Myers said.
At this time of year, the hiring managers who are in the office tend to be more accessible, more relaxed and less busy than usual, Mr. Myers said. And the holidays can unleash a spirit of generosity toward job hunters that is lacking at other times, he added."
As you continue your search, I would suggest that you identify multiple points of contact with a potential employer, including their executive assistant, desk phone, cell phone, email, Facebook, Twitter, and their mailing address for a handwritten note. Technology has provided us with a variety of ways to stay on someone's radar, and it is up to you to take advantage of your options. But more importantly, make sure you provide substance in your outreach.
Send a Christmas card, attach a relevant article to your email or mention that you heard about their recent achievement through a mutual contact. Your outreach must ADD VALUE and provide incentive for them to respond.
I usually say that the best time to call someone is on a Friday. And with this being the week before Christmas, guess what? Most every day between now and January will feel like a Friday. So instead of giving up, step up your efforts over the next few weeks!
Assess your options, make a phone call, send a Christmas card, and set up a meeting for January. You just might catch someone in the holiday spirit of giving!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Navigating Holiday Etiquette At Work
Whether you are looking for a job or currently employed, it is important to recognize that the Holiday season provides an opportunity to make a thoughtful impression on those around you. In fact, it's always important to recognize any opportunity to go the extra mile. We're all so busy and engrossed in our own work and family life - when someone takes an extra five minutes to say that we matter, we never forget. Which brings us back to Holiday gifts and etiquette in the workplace.
Here are a few tips below:
1) Identify the list of people who have helped you or may be able to help you in the future. Handwrite a short, upbeat note wishing them well during the Holidays.
**Always keep a book of stamps in your desk so that the thought of having to stand in line at the Post Office doesn't deter you from buckling down and writing your cards - that way, you can just do it already!
2) If you are thinking of giving small gifts to your co-workers or clients (gifts to your boss are probably not the best idea), figure out what is important to them. Family? Pets? Traveling? Food? A friend of mine works in Major League Soccer and was tasked with buying a gift for a very successful athlete. What do you get someone who has it all? She settled on a couple of low-dollar toys from Target for his toddler daughter. The gift didn't cost much, but it made a huge impact because it centered around the most priceless part of his life - his family. He talked about it for days!
3) Shhhhh - if you give a gift or do something thoughtful for a co-worker, there's no need to make a big deal out of it. The person who receives your gift will know you're thinking about them, and that's all that matters. So keep it quiet!
How do you go the extra mile to make an impact with co-workers and clients during the Holidays?
Here are a few tips below:
1) Identify the list of people who have helped you or may be able to help you in the future. Handwrite a short, upbeat note wishing them well during the Holidays.
**Always keep a book of stamps in your desk so that the thought of having to stand in line at the Post Office doesn't deter you from buckling down and writing your cards - that way, you can just do it already!
2) If you are thinking of giving small gifts to your co-workers or clients (gifts to your boss are probably not the best idea), figure out what is important to them. Family? Pets? Traveling? Food? A friend of mine works in Major League Soccer and was tasked with buying a gift for a very successful athlete. What do you get someone who has it all? She settled on a couple of low-dollar toys from Target for his toddler daughter. The gift didn't cost much, but it made a huge impact because it centered around the most priceless part of his life - his family. He talked about it for days!
3) Shhhhh - if you give a gift or do something thoughtful for a co-worker, there's no need to make a big deal out of it. The person who receives your gift will know you're thinking about them, and that's all that matters. So keep it quiet!
How do you go the extra mile to make an impact with co-workers and clients during the Holidays?
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Thoughts On Sharing Your Personal Brand
If you are looking for an interesting read today, check out www.drewsmarketingminute.com. The author, Drew McLellan, has some excellent thoughts regarding your personal brand. In short, he makes the point that although your personal brand is important, it is HOW you share your brand with the world that makes all the difference.
In the end, building a reputation based on credibility, consistency, and generosity is what it's all about. Which of these areas can you improve upon during the Holiday season?
In the end, building a reputation based on credibility, consistency, and generosity is what it's all about. Which of these areas can you improve upon during the Holiday season?
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
I Get By With A Little Help From My Friends...
I was checking out Bucks on The New York Times this morning, and came across this excellent article about helping your unemployed friends and family during the Holidays. The article had great suggestions, from providing free baby-sitting to simply listening to them talk about their situation - it can be so frustrating at times!
Sometimes, the only thing that our unemployed friends and family need to hear is that we're there, supporting them and doing what we can to make their burden a bit easier. It doesn't take much - even just a phone call, email, or a handwritten note. What can you do to help the people you love during the Holidays?
Sometimes, the only thing that our unemployed friends and family need to hear is that we're there, supporting them and doing what we can to make their burden a bit easier. It doesn't take much - even just a phone call, email, or a handwritten note. What can you do to help the people you love during the Holidays?
Friday, December 11, 2009
Add Value - Period.
I recently had a friend and client going in for an interview. I spent time on the phone prepping him for the interview, discussing potential questions to expect from them, their needs, their challenges, their opportunities and more. As our conversation evolved it became more of a role play – I was acting as if I was interviewing him and he was responding as if he was in the room – in the interview. Great practice – healthy process by the way. I recommend this at home.
Without exception his answers to my questions would regress back to “getting this job is so important to me” or “this job would make my year…my life.” After listening for some time I finally said to him, “this isn’t about you, it’s about them. Sadly, but candidly, they aren’t worried about you, they are worried about how you are going to make their product better, how you are going to add energy to their team, add value to their team, sell and enhance what they do and how they do what they do. Come ‘on” I said, “you know that.” He said, “yep, yep, yep – you are right. But it really would Molly.” I said, “I know it would, but just say it once – say it sincerely and move on to illustrate how you can add value to them.” The reality is, to many references to how much you want it– you look needy and they will offer you a dollar a day (no not really – but you know what I mean). So, hold back, control that overwhelming desire to just explode with “I WANT THIS SO BAD.” And take all that energy, all that passion and talk about how you can ADD VALUE – not about how they add value to you.
It’s a dog fight out there; it’s more competitive than ever. But when you drill right down to it, it’s about adding value. You can create positions for yourself by simply demonstrating and communicating that you can add value.
People hire people and people invest in people who can add value consistently, uniquely and quickly.
GO FOR IT! BE FEARLESS!
Without exception his answers to my questions would regress back to “getting this job is so important to me” or “this job would make my year…my life.” After listening for some time I finally said to him, “this isn’t about you, it’s about them. Sadly, but candidly, they aren’t worried about you, they are worried about how you are going to make their product better, how you are going to add energy to their team, add value to their team, sell and enhance what they do and how they do what they do. Come ‘on” I said, “you know that.” He said, “yep, yep, yep – you are right. But it really would Molly.” I said, “I know it would, but just say it once – say it sincerely and move on to illustrate how you can add value to them.” The reality is, to many references to how much you want it– you look needy and they will offer you a dollar a day (no not really – but you know what I mean). So, hold back, control that overwhelming desire to just explode with “I WANT THIS SO BAD.” And take all that energy, all that passion and talk about how you can ADD VALUE – not about how they add value to you.
It’s a dog fight out there; it’s more competitive than ever. But when you drill right down to it, it’s about adding value. You can create positions for yourself by simply demonstrating and communicating that you can add value.
People hire people and people invest in people who can add value consistently, uniquely and quickly.
GO FOR IT! BE FEARLESS!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Three Keys
At a macro level lets think about the key tactics you need to execute to find a job, they are: fearlessness, consistency and information.
What do I mean?
Fearlessness: You have to want it bad enough to overcome the negative voice inside your head that tells you, "you can't" "this might not work" "your not qualified" etc. I could go on and on. Lose that voice; get ride of it. It is paralyzing you...totally paralyzing you. Insert positive thoughts in your mind whenever that negative voice tries to be heard. Force yourself to stay positive and be optimistic.
Consistency: We all meet people - some we think can help us, some we aren't sure, some we think can't. I would argue that if you took the time to meet them (and you are qualifying your meetings well) there is a small chance they could help you. Manage the relationship, nurture the relationship, consistently evaluate the relationship and, as needed, add value to the relationship - continue to contribute to the other persons world so they can constantly recognize your intellect and respectfully aggressive approach of impressing them.
Information: Knowledge is power. Remain informed as it relates to the other persons world. Specifically do in depth research so you can add unique insight and ideas to your contact so you can differentiate yourself.
Be fearless, remain consistent and gather information and you will secure a job - and a great one at that. Go for it!
What do I mean?
Fearlessness: You have to want it bad enough to overcome the negative voice inside your head that tells you, "you can't" "this might not work" "your not qualified" etc. I could go on and on. Lose that voice; get ride of it. It is paralyzing you...totally paralyzing you. Insert positive thoughts in your mind whenever that negative voice tries to be heard. Force yourself to stay positive and be optimistic.
Consistency: We all meet people - some we think can help us, some we aren't sure, some we think can't. I would argue that if you took the time to meet them (and you are qualifying your meetings well) there is a small chance they could help you. Manage the relationship, nurture the relationship, consistently evaluate the relationship and, as needed, add value to the relationship - continue to contribute to the other persons world so they can constantly recognize your intellect and respectfully aggressive approach of impressing them.
Information: Knowledge is power. Remain informed as it relates to the other persons world. Specifically do in depth research so you can add unique insight and ideas to your contact so you can differentiate yourself.
Be fearless, remain consistent and gather information and you will secure a job - and a great one at that. Go for it!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
40/60
There is an off-line and an on-line approach to the job search process. Both are important but I believe the off-line - people - approach is the most effective.
I wrote a book about the off-line strategy and tactics as you attach the market to find your perfect job. I will admit, there is a need to utilize the web in your off-line search strategy but it's for research - and primarily research. People hire people, they don't hire paper..or great emails..or great letters - but rather great people.
There are a lot of people right now posting up over their computers day in and day out scouring the web for new postings, more insight, new blogs, new articles etc. I believe the ratio between computer time and people time is 40/60. Spend 40 percent - at the most - over your computer and 60 percent of your time in front of great people. The web is a spring board to gain insight and to create introductions.
Now, I will add, I am speaking about 40/60 day light hours. For those who are really getting after it, use your discretion as to the time you spend at night on the web - the people you could be meeting with are probably sleeping so post up at your computer all night if you wish. So, use 40% of the time to get behind the curtain of the world of the people you are going to meet with and to schedule the meetings with people who you think can hire you or help you. Use the 60% of the time with great people who can hire your or help you. If you do this effectively, I am confident good things will be your result.
I believe life is about utilizing your energy in a positive way - to make a difference at whatever level that might mean for you. Put your energy where it will produce rewarding results for you and those you care about. And never confuse effort with accomplishment. Effort is great, but you get rewarded on accomplishments.
Go for it!
I wrote a book about the off-line strategy and tactics as you attach the market to find your perfect job. I will admit, there is a need to utilize the web in your off-line search strategy but it's for research - and primarily research. People hire people, they don't hire paper..or great emails..or great letters - but rather great people.
There are a lot of people right now posting up over their computers day in and day out scouring the web for new postings, more insight, new blogs, new articles etc. I believe the ratio between computer time and people time is 40/60. Spend 40 percent - at the most - over your computer and 60 percent of your time in front of great people. The web is a spring board to gain insight and to create introductions.
Now, I will add, I am speaking about 40/60 day light hours. For those who are really getting after it, use your discretion as to the time you spend at night on the web - the people you could be meeting with are probably sleeping so post up at your computer all night if you wish. So, use 40% of the time to get behind the curtain of the world of the people you are going to meet with and to schedule the meetings with people who you think can hire you or help you. Use the 60% of the time with great people who can hire your or help you. If you do this effectively, I am confident good things will be your result.
I believe life is about utilizing your energy in a positive way - to make a difference at whatever level that might mean for you. Put your energy where it will produce rewarding results for you and those you care about. And never confuse effort with accomplishment. Effort is great, but you get rewarded on accomplishments.
Go for it!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Embrace Your Moments With Stories
I spoke at a Home Depot event recently. A woman, Lori, had reached out to me in advance of the event hopeful that we could meet to discuss her career and her goals. We missed each other at the event, however, we did connect recently at my office. She was diligent and impressive in all her communication to me so I looked forward to meeting with her.
Needless to say, she embraced the meeting. A week in advance of our meeting she sent me a power point about ideas, questions, insights about her that she wanted to discuss in our 30 minute meeting. She based the format of the power point off my book. Some of the points were great, some weren't necessarily relevant, but the thinking was what impressed me. But, what impressed me even more was the stories she used to illustrate her work ethic, her perseverance, her diligence, her ability to build relationships and her background.
She told me stories about queens she met in other countries due to her perseverance married with class - respectful confidence - I like to call it. She told me stories about relationships she built with executives (high high level executives - like CEO's) at Home Depot in light of her awareness and appropriate eagerness to expand her reach.
For example, Lori drove by a plot of land and noticed a sign that started that Bernie Marcus, CEO/Founder of HD, was using the land to build a building for a charity he is involved with. She works in the IT department of HD and so she reached out to Mr. Marcus offering her services to help create a IT platform for the building in her off time time. "Mr. Marcus, hello, my name is Lori P. and I work at The Home Depot. I noticed a sign today about the building you are building for (xyz charity) and I wanted you to know I would be happy to volunteer my time in an effort to help from an IT perspective - and any other for that matter." Shortly after she received an appreciative reply from Mr. Marcus thanking her and taking her up on her offer. You are thinking - sure, clever - a kiss ass. But, her sincere style, follow up, delivery and approach brings clarity to the fact that her efforts were sincere and through that effort a relationship was built.
In our meeting, of just an hour at most, she told me this and other stories that helped bring to life her style, her trust, her relationships, and her sincerity. But, it all came to life via stories. So, my message to you tonight is use stories to illustrate yourself effectively. Go for it!
Needless to say, she embraced the meeting. A week in advance of our meeting she sent me a power point about ideas, questions, insights about her that she wanted to discuss in our 30 minute meeting. She based the format of the power point off my book. Some of the points were great, some weren't necessarily relevant, but the thinking was what impressed me. But, what impressed me even more was the stories she used to illustrate her work ethic, her perseverance, her diligence, her ability to build relationships and her background.
She told me stories about queens she met in other countries due to her perseverance married with class - respectful confidence - I like to call it. She told me stories about relationships she built with executives (high high level executives - like CEO's) at Home Depot in light of her awareness and appropriate eagerness to expand her reach.
For example, Lori drove by a plot of land and noticed a sign that started that Bernie Marcus, CEO/Founder of HD, was using the land to build a building for a charity he is involved with. She works in the IT department of HD and so she reached out to Mr. Marcus offering her services to help create a IT platform for the building in her off time time. "Mr. Marcus, hello, my name is Lori P. and I work at The Home Depot. I noticed a sign today about the building you are building for (xyz charity) and I wanted you to know I would be happy to volunteer my time in an effort to help from an IT perspective - and any other for that matter." Shortly after she received an appreciative reply from Mr. Marcus thanking her and taking her up on her offer. You are thinking - sure, clever - a kiss ass. But, her sincere style, follow up, delivery and approach brings clarity to the fact that her efforts were sincere and through that effort a relationship was built.
In our meeting, of just an hour at most, she told me this and other stories that helped bring to life her style, her trust, her relationships, and her sincerity. But, it all came to life via stories. So, my message to you tonight is use stories to illustrate yourself effectively. Go for it!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
How do you create opportunities?
A young woman came into my office today who use to be one of my interns. She is a nice, sharp girl - Julia Gates. She is taking a risk and moving to Australia to work. I am proud of her; she will return (I hope) to the US a new person in many ways. During our conversations today, we discussed something that struck me as an interesting blog topic.
How do you identify opportunities for yourself?
At the most basic level, you identify a need or a hole inside a company or an organization; you identify the ways in which that problem can be fixed; you identify ways in which you can help solve that problem AND, in a perfect world, ways in which that problem creates revenue for the organization. This philosophy applies whether you are currently in a job or your looking for a job.
Most companies have challenges or needs. Sometimes those needs don't result in official postinga. There are plenty of opportunities that aren't posted - you just need to find them. And, once you do, add value by solving their problem. Just ensure that the problem you are solving directly or indirectly creates revenue for the organization - otherwise, they can't pay you for it.
It really is this simple. So,go for it!!
How do you identify opportunities for yourself?
At the most basic level, you identify a need or a hole inside a company or an organization; you identify the ways in which that problem can be fixed; you identify ways in which you can help solve that problem AND, in a perfect world, ways in which that problem creates revenue for the organization. This philosophy applies whether you are currently in a job or your looking for a job.
Most companies have challenges or needs. Sometimes those needs don't result in official postinga. There are plenty of opportunities that aren't posted - you just need to find them. And, once you do, add value by solving their problem. Just ensure that the problem you are solving directly or indirectly creates revenue for the organization - otherwise, they can't pay you for it.
It really is this simple. So,go for it!!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Be Recession-Proof
I recently read an awesome guide to being a "recession proof" graduate by Charlie Hoehn. I don't know Charlie, but I certainly respect his approach to the job search process. You can find his slideshow here.
If I had a clue how to drop it right into my site, I would, but I don't have a clue. Sorry! But, trust me, click on it, it's great stuff.
Ok, have you looked at it? Do it before you read on.
Charlie is right... you can choose to not participate in this recession. That is my philosophy as well. Just don't participate. It's simple. Create opportunities for yourself. You can do that by following his steps... but I would add/expand on a couple other thoughts:
Get in front of a lot of people you respect and make them your agent. Earlier this week, I met with a few people...recent grads looking for a job. I met with them because someone I respect asked me to meet with them. Guess what, neither sent me a thank you email and neither had any questions. Unbelievable when you say toward the end of the meeting, "do you have any questions for me?" And a young person says "no...not really." WHAT THE HELL! Load some questions in your mind and spit them out...be ready. Seize the opportunity. Maybe meeting with me wasn't an opportunity? But they asked for the meeting. Hmmm. Either way, impress people you request a meeting with and it will help you be able to forgo participating in this recession.
I love Charlie's mention of getting some skills under your belt, that means WORK. I know an easy choice right now is to go back to school, but if you choice that route, you better understand how you are going to step into a great opportunity after you finish and how that opportunity will be fruitful enough to pay off those loans.
I'm really fairly opinionated right now as I type this blog, which is actually rare...but I hope helpful.
Have a great weekend...do more than everyone else and be smarter than everyone else. This is a powerful combination!
Molly
If I had a clue how to drop it right into my site, I would, but I don't have a clue. Sorry! But, trust me, click on it, it's great stuff.
Ok, have you looked at it? Do it before you read on.
Charlie is right... you can choose to not participate in this recession. That is my philosophy as well. Just don't participate. It's simple. Create opportunities for yourself. You can do that by following his steps... but I would add/expand on a couple other thoughts:
Get in front of a lot of people you respect and make them your agent. Earlier this week, I met with a few people...recent grads looking for a job. I met with them because someone I respect asked me to meet with them. Guess what, neither sent me a thank you email and neither had any questions. Unbelievable when you say toward the end of the meeting, "do you have any questions for me?" And a young person says "no...not really." WHAT THE HELL! Load some questions in your mind and spit them out...be ready. Seize the opportunity. Maybe meeting with me wasn't an opportunity? But they asked for the meeting. Hmmm. Either way, impress people you request a meeting with and it will help you be able to forgo participating in this recession.
I love Charlie's mention of getting some skills under your belt, that means WORK. I know an easy choice right now is to go back to school, but if you choice that route, you better understand how you are going to step into a great opportunity after you finish and how that opportunity will be fruitful enough to pay off those loans.
I'm really fairly opinionated right now as I type this blog, which is actually rare...but I hope helpful.
Have a great weekend...do more than everyone else and be smarter than everyone else. This is a powerful combination!
Molly
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Creativity
I've been thinking a lot about some of the things that help people when they are recruiting people they want to work with or for. Besides some of the more obvious, passion, fearless and others. Creativity is a key ingredient to successful job searches. I don't mean creativity in regards to what my kids think of when they are sitting over a coloring book with a princess in it.
Creativity in the job search is primarily:
-Identifying creative ways to connect with people (its more than their number). Use their email, use texting, use linked in, use facebook and other on line social media tools. Securing multiple points of contact allows you to to reach out to someone in various ways
-Uncovering hot buttons about your contact so you can tease them on the ways you would add value
Be creative by marrying aggressiveness with demonstrating ways you will add value! Go for it.
Molly
Creativity in the job search is primarily:
-Identifying creative ways to connect with people (its more than their number). Use their email, use texting, use linked in, use facebook and other on line social media tools. Securing multiple points of contact allows you to to reach out to someone in various ways
-Uncovering hot buttons about your contact so you can tease them on the ways you would add value
Be creative by marrying aggressiveness with demonstrating ways you will add value! Go for it.
Molly
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Interviewing Advice
Check out this video about interviewing advice. Great stuff to remember what people are looking for that you meet with who could hire you or worst case, simply help you. Notice not only WHAT he says but how HE says it. Notice his energy and confidence about what he is saying. Listen and think about your answer to his question about adversity you have dealt with. What would you say?
Video
More soon...
Video
More soon...
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Twitter Promotion
Follow me on Twitter. The hundredth follower and every hundredth after will receive my book for free! http://twitter.com/mollyfletcher
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Effectively utilize "touch points" with people you're recruiting
When you talk or meet with someone who you want to help you or hire you...remember to capture the three primary ways in which you can connect with the individual, which are phone, email and their physical address. But, also remember, never to ask for something you can find out on your own; so if you are on the phone with them and their web site lists their office address, you can simply verbally (and quickly) confirm the street address just to secure confirmation in case their are multiple offices and you need to know which one they are housed at. Additionally, you can do your research and determine if they twitter; if they do sign up to receive their twitter of their social media representatives twitter. At the very least you can utilize these three points of contact as ways in which you can creatively connect with your contact. Vary the ways you reach out to them in initially but certainly over time you will determine the kind of communication they prefer with you; then focus on that format and utilize is to recruit you contact. Equally as important, have substance and add value when you communicate with them. In other words, be respectfully aggressive in a valuable way.
Good luck!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Is more education important?
I often get the question, "With the job market as it is, should I simply go on and get more schooling?"
My answer is, it depends - profound huh. Let me explain. If you have never had a "real" job, I believe it is important that you get a professional job before you get a masters. Why? Because you need to wake up everyday and go somewhere, work for someone you may like or you may not particularly like; you need to figure out what you are good at, great at and not so good at. Figure out what you like and what you don't like. But, wake up and go somewhere and build something, contribute your skills, improve your skills and better understand your skills. Additionally, a masters right on top of an undergrad degree won't differentiate you much, if at all, in this environment. Not to mention you will (unless your parents have money) have debt. Yuck!
Don't approach the job search and think, "Well if I can't find a job I'll just go back to school." This is not a good approach because your passion, your fearlessness, your game plan, your execution and so on will lack the intensity needed to be successful. In your mind, you have a fall back. Don't listen to that little person in your head that says..."Oh well if I don't...."
Ok, now let's say some of you reading this believe you need a masters. And, based on your particular situation now is the time. Got it, good. Promise me that you will ask yourself these questions before you put your money down..
What will I do once I graduate with more education?
What is the perfect job?
Who do I know that did this and it helped them? How did it help them?
Based on how much the degree costs, how much more will I make because of it and how quickly will that increase off-set my expense for the degree?
Get your head around the benefits and have a plan as to how you plan to use it.
Enjoy and embrace the path you choose and always, always enjoy the journey.
My answer is, it depends - profound huh. Let me explain. If you have never had a "real" job, I believe it is important that you get a professional job before you get a masters. Why? Because you need to wake up everyday and go somewhere, work for someone you may like or you may not particularly like; you need to figure out what you are good at, great at and not so good at. Figure out what you like and what you don't like. But, wake up and go somewhere and build something, contribute your skills, improve your skills and better understand your skills. Additionally, a masters right on top of an undergrad degree won't differentiate you much, if at all, in this environment. Not to mention you will (unless your parents have money) have debt. Yuck!
Don't approach the job search and think, "Well if I can't find a job I'll just go back to school." This is not a good approach because your passion, your fearlessness, your game plan, your execution and so on will lack the intensity needed to be successful. In your mind, you have a fall back. Don't listen to that little person in your head that says..."Oh well if I don't...."
Ok, now let's say some of you reading this believe you need a masters. And, based on your particular situation now is the time. Got it, good. Promise me that you will ask yourself these questions before you put your money down..
What will I do once I graduate with more education?
What is the perfect job?
Who do I know that did this and it helped them? How did it help them?
Based on how much the degree costs, how much more will I make because of it and how quickly will that increase off-set my expense for the degree?
Get your head around the benefits and have a plan as to how you plan to use it.
Enjoy and embrace the path you choose and always, always enjoy the journey.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Solution and goal oriented in each conversation
I recently met with a young man who lost his job....he is about 26 years old, he has worked for several years in sales in the sports marketing business. Very nice young man.
When I asked him what he wanted to do he said, "that's the problem...I don't really know for sure." Yikes, I thought to myself. He might be thinking that but I don't advise that people say that - after years in the business world - "I don't know..." Not a good answer.
The better approach is to stay solution and goal oriented in your response. What do I mean?
Your intention in the meeting is to get them to like you and believe that you are a bright, ambitious, motivated individual. Give them enough direction with your response to this question that they can think through their contacts, identify people who they know that would network with you and so that you can leave the meeting with names and contact information of people who they have referred you to.
As you answer this question, talk about what you know you are interested in...it can be somewhat generic if necessary. Maybe your answer is that you want to be a part of building something or that you want to secure a position where you are in total control of your financial rewards or that you want to stay in this particular city you live in or that you are eager to move anywhere. Stay positive and stay focused on what it is that you do want to do, not what you don't know or you don't want to do. The goal is to have them like you enough to want to help you or hire you so you need to create enough of an impression and illustrate enough ideas that they want to help get you in front of good people.
So when they ask you, what do you want to do, remain solution and goal oriented. Not to mention, these are two key traits that people making hiring decisions want in their employees. Prove to them by your response to this question that you live by these key traits.
When I asked him what he wanted to do he said, "that's the problem...I don't really know for sure." Yikes, I thought to myself. He might be thinking that but I don't advise that people say that - after years in the business world - "I don't know..." Not a good answer.
The better approach is to stay solution and goal oriented in your response. What do I mean?
Your intention in the meeting is to get them to like you and believe that you are a bright, ambitious, motivated individual. Give them enough direction with your response to this question that they can think through their contacts, identify people who they know that would network with you and so that you can leave the meeting with names and contact information of people who they have referred you to.
As you answer this question, talk about what you know you are interested in...it can be somewhat generic if necessary. Maybe your answer is that you want to be a part of building something or that you want to secure a position where you are in total control of your financial rewards or that you want to stay in this particular city you live in or that you are eager to move anywhere. Stay positive and stay focused on what it is that you do want to do, not what you don't know or you don't want to do. The goal is to have them like you enough to want to help you or hire you so you need to create enough of an impression and illustrate enough ideas that they want to help get you in front of good people.
So when they ask you, what do you want to do, remain solution and goal oriented. Not to mention, these are two key traits that people making hiring decisions want in their employees. Prove to them by your response to this question that you live by these key traits.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Eric Saperston
Have you heard of Eric Saperston? We spent an hour or more on the phone recently discussing our shared passion for finding ones passion. He has awesome energy and vision. Years ago Eric took a trip around our wonderful country with the goal of gathering wisdom from the greats of the generation before him. From his journey, he created a movie called, "The Journey", which shares the advice he gained during his time with so many ordinary and also extraordinary people. Check out his website http://www.ericsaperston.com enjoy and believe in your tomorrows.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Dear Lacey Lee:
Lacey, an incoming senior at the University of South Carolina emailed me the below email:
message: "I am about to be a senior at the University of South Carolina. After graduating, I plan on attending law school. You have my dream job. I want to enter the field of Sport Law. I would love to become a sports agent. How difficult was it for you to break into the field? Do you have any tips for me to get ahead of the game seeing that I still have 4 more years before finding a job? You are such an inspiration to me."
I thought I would share my reply to Lacey on my blog as well.
Lacey, I never felt like it was difficult breaking into the sports business because I expected the challenge. Just stay passionate, stay persistent and be fearless. Embrace every ones advice and only utilize the advice from the people who tell you how difficult it is in a positive way. In other words, listen to what they say were their challenges, learn from them but don't use their challenges as a reason to give up. Much of my book illustrates the tactics you need to execute to find a job, implement those starting right NOW. Lacey, with four years left of school, you have an opportunity to have a job locked up by before you graduate. Start by having an internship each break in school (ie. summer).
Lacey, I hope this helps. Enjoy the journey.
message: "I am about to be a senior at the University of South Carolina. After graduating, I plan on attending law school. You have my dream job. I want to enter the field of Sport Law. I would love to become a sports agent. How difficult was it for you to break into the field? Do you have any tips for me to get ahead of the game seeing that I still have 4 more years before finding a job? You are such an inspiration to me."
I thought I would share my reply to Lacey on my blog as well.
Lacey, I never felt like it was difficult breaking into the sports business because I expected the challenge. Just stay passionate, stay persistent and be fearless. Embrace every ones advice and only utilize the advice from the people who tell you how difficult it is in a positive way. In other words, listen to what they say were their challenges, learn from them but don't use their challenges as a reason to give up. Much of my book illustrates the tactics you need to execute to find a job, implement those starting right NOW. Lacey, with four years left of school, you have an opportunity to have a job locked up by before you graduate. Start by having an internship each break in school (ie. summer).
Lacey, I hope this helps. Enjoy the journey.
Monday, June 1, 2009
To College Graduates
To those of you who have just or are about to graduate from college, you are like a young man who is trying to get drafted or a college coach who is just about to lock up their first Division III job or a golfer who is playing a Monday qualifier for a spot in a Nationwide Tour event. You have some great credentials, but you haven't really done anything yet.
So what do you need to do now? Prepare and create opportunities for yourself and once you do execute. Prepare by reading, digging and gathering data about the people, companies and industry you are trying to secure a job in. Create opportunities by making a list of 20 people...10 people you know and 10 people you don't know but think you want to be. Meet with all twenty people as quickly as you can (prepare for these meetings or they won't be successful). And, like a young man drafted in the MLB draft, it doesn't matter unless they perform for the team(s) they play for; like a young coach for a D-III school it doesn't matter unless they win games; like a player in a Monday qualifier, getting into the qualifier doesn't really matter to much unless they execute when they play.
The world is in front of you...but it takes hard work to differentiate yourself from the others. Embrace it and go for it.
So what do you need to do now? Prepare and create opportunities for yourself and once you do execute. Prepare by reading, digging and gathering data about the people, companies and industry you are trying to secure a job in. Create opportunities by making a list of 20 people...10 people you know and 10 people you don't know but think you want to be. Meet with all twenty people as quickly as you can (prepare for these meetings or they won't be successful). And, like a young man drafted in the MLB draft, it doesn't matter unless they perform for the team(s) they play for; like a young coach for a D-III school it doesn't matter unless they win games; like a player in a Monday qualifier, getting into the qualifier doesn't really matter to much unless they execute when they play.
The world is in front of you...but it takes hard work to differentiate yourself from the others. Embrace it and go for it.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Whats your elevator speech?
I have always been interested in the way people connect (or don't connect) with other people...particularly in the first few minutes. Recently I jumped into an our elevator leaving the office on a Friday afternoon and one of our interns jumped in as well. Just he and I all the way down from our 19th floor office to the lobby. I said, "hey, how you doing?" He said, "awesome...I am so pumped it is Friday." I asked, "why?" He said, "just ready for chill this weekend." Oops I thought to myself. Not a great thing to say as an intern at a place you are trying to get a job.
Better might have been to say he was doing great, maybe reference something positive he knows that happened in our world at the agency that week and indicate his eagerness to get to work on some things for the following week. And maybe some specific questions about my clients would have shown me that he is "in our world."
People want to be around positive, engaging people who might make you laugh, have the guts to ask questions and the guts to demonstrate that they are aware of your world. And, most certainly, people want to hire people who are eager to work hard, embrace each and every opportunity and moment and are smart enough to know their "elevator speech." What is your elevator speech?
Better might have been to say he was doing great, maybe reference something positive he knows that happened in our world at the agency that week and indicate his eagerness to get to work on some things for the following week. And maybe some specific questions about my clients would have shown me that he is "in our world."
People want to be around positive, engaging people who might make you laugh, have the guts to ask questions and the guts to demonstrate that they are aware of your world. And, most certainly, people want to hire people who are eager to work hard, embrace each and every opportunity and moment and are smart enough to know their "elevator speech." What is your elevator speech?
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Advice
I always stress to people the importance of asking others for advice...I think you can learn so much by simply asking great questions and listening. I ask our CEO for advice, I ask the people who work for me for advice and, yes, I still ask my parents for advice. So, now I want to ask you for advice as it relates to my website and my blogs.
What are the on-line career based websites and blogs you source to look for jobs?
What are some ideas or tactical questions that you believe people would find beneficial for me to write about in my blogs? The more ideas and thoughts the better as I am looking for over a hundred blog ideas as I expand my editorial calendar for my future blogs.
Please submit your thoughts on the "contact" section of my site and I'll get them directly.
Have a great day!
What are the on-line career based websites and blogs you source to look for jobs?
What are some ideas or tactical questions that you believe people would find beneficial for me to write about in my blogs? The more ideas and thoughts the better as I am looking for over a hundred blog ideas as I expand my editorial calendar for my future blogs.
Please submit your thoughts on the "contact" section of my site and I'll get them directly.
Have a great day!
Friday, May 22, 2009
Chicago
Big Ten...Midwestern people are so wonderful..so grounded...so refreshing. I think our event Thursday night proved beneficial for people. We had a nice crowd of MSU, Ohio State and Northwestern grads. I talked about passion, style, fearlessness, gameplan, execution and more....I think the Mark DeRosa stories helped hit home for Chicago people. I shared the story of how we signed Mark which people found interesting.
I enjoyed lunch with Christie Hefner on Friday. She is a woman to admire...a classy professional brilliant woman. She cares about others...not just at a local but a national and international level...she has and will continue to leave a legacy for woman like me to respect and work to mirror.
I enjoyed lunch with Christie Hefner on Friday. She is a woman to admire...a classy professional brilliant woman. She cares about others...not just at a local but a national and international level...she has and will continue to leave a legacy for woman like me to respect and work to mirror.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Chcago Bound
I am heading to Chicago Thursday to speak to Big Ten alumni Thursday evening (location noted on the events section of my site)....I am excited to be in the windy city. I plan to share a little more beyond my tools in the book and discuss some of the areas I have shared in my Atlanta Journal Constitution columns. Also I am very happy that my Mom, who lives in Lansing Michigan, is driving to Chicago so we can spend a little bit of time together before I head back to Atlanta Friday. See Big Ten peps tomorrow....
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
A recent email I wanted to share....
This was from a gentleman who attended the alumni event I spoke at in Dallas...nice words about the book and the event I wanted to share for those interested in learning first hand how the thoughts in this book can help you.
Steve Novak wrote....
"Since your visit, I have read your book and applied some of the principles to my own career. First, I have a better understanding of what my dream job is, and the types of roles that provide satisfaction to me. Although my current role and
industry are not exactly my dream job, I have found the elements within it that bring out my passion. Additionally, I’ve begun to create my brand around those elements. It has provided me not only with greater satisfaction in my current role, but also a better understanding of what I am bringing to the table. From this, I have a better understanding of my market value, and am in the process of creating options for myself (both inside the company, and out). For all of that, I cannot THANK YOU enough.
Thanks once again,
Steve Novak
stevenovak19@hotmail.com
Steve, exactly what you shared is why I spent 2.5 years at a coffee shop writing this book for a couple hours a day. Thank you for your kind words and I am hopeful it can continue to be a tool for you throughout your professional career.
Molly
Steve Novak wrote....
"Since your visit, I have read your book and applied some of the principles to my own career. First, I have a better understanding of what my dream job is, and the types of roles that provide satisfaction to me. Although my current role and
industry are not exactly my dream job, I have found the elements within it that bring out my passion. Additionally, I’ve begun to create my brand around those elements. It has provided me not only with greater satisfaction in my current role, but also a better understanding of what I am bringing to the table. From this, I have a better understanding of my market value, and am in the process of creating options for myself (both inside the company, and out). For all of that, I cannot THANK YOU enough.
Thanks once again,
Steve Novak
stevenovak19@hotmail.com
Steve, exactly what you shared is why I spent 2.5 years at a coffee shop writing this book for a couple hours a day. Thank you for your kind words and I am hopeful it can continue to be a tool for you throughout your professional career.
Molly
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Be A Five Tool Player In Michigan
I returned to Atlanta Wednesday after two busy, but rewarding days in Michigan.
After processing my trip, speeches and various conversations I want to reiterate to everyone to hang around five tool people. People who have passion, are fearless, have a game plan, are eager to execute so that together you can create choices for yourselves.
Many people in Michigan are dealing with such tough economic times it was heart wrenching to talk with some of the people who are dealing with these issues. I hope my talks helped insert energy into people who are dealing with these discouraging times. I talked to young people who are working hard to insert themselves in the work force and older people who are working to reinvent themselves. One of the most important ingredients to ones ability to succeed is a great attitude. It is the one thing everyone can control so do everything you can to remain positive and surround yourself with five tool people. Please, I promise, it matters.
After processing my trip, speeches and various conversations I want to reiterate to everyone to hang around five tool people. People who have passion, are fearless, have a game plan, are eager to execute so that together you can create choices for yourselves.
Many people in Michigan are dealing with such tough economic times it was heart wrenching to talk with some of the people who are dealing with these issues. I hope my talks helped insert energy into people who are dealing with these discouraging times. I talked to young people who are working hard to insert themselves in the work force and older people who are working to reinvent themselves. One of the most important ingredients to ones ability to succeed is a great attitude. It is the one thing everyone can control so do everything you can to remain positive and surround yourself with five tool people. Please, I promise, it matters.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Heading to Michigan
Wheels up on Monday to the great state of Michigan. I am looking forward to speaking to two different groups. Monday night in East Lansing and Tuesday night in Troy. Landing on Michigan soil is always special. Many people have been through so many tough times as of late in light of the economy. I am hopeful that my job search philosophies will insert spirit and hope - and a game plan - in so many great Michigan people! Follow me on Twitter for quick updates of the trip.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Atlanta Journal Constitution BIZ VOICE
BIZ VOICE AJC Article
Finding a Job is like finding a soul mate
Here is a strategy to build a network that multiplies opportunities for that perfect match
I have always told people, if you ask for advice you get a job and if you ask for a job you get advice. This is no different than dating. If you ask someone on a date, you might end up finding a wife. If you ask someone right of the bat to marry you, you might never get a first date.
My husband, Fred, didn’t ask me to marry him out of the gates. He got to know me. He realized I watched more ESPN than he did, and that when we walked into a stadium we walked down not up – but he also realized I couldn’t cook quite like his mother. Meanwhile, I found out as much as could about him as well. He was smart, funny, and would be an even better husband and father than a boyfriend. It didn’t bother him that my phone rang late at night with players who wanted to discuss each pitch from that evenings outing and it didn’t bother him that I couldn’t whip up a gourmet meal.
Treat business meetings like you’d treat dating. Start by being prepared:
Done right, you should have been on twenty "dates" and have twenty people who are aware of your career aspirations. Equally as important, you should have sixty more people to meet with.
It may take sixty dates to find the person you want to marry. Hopefully it will take less then sixty meetings to find the job you love.
Finding a Job is like finding a soul mate
Here is a strategy to build a network that multiplies opportunities for that perfect match
I have always told people, if you ask for advice you get a job and if you ask for a job you get advice. This is no different than dating. If you ask someone on a date, you might end up finding a wife. If you ask someone right of the bat to marry you, you might never get a first date.
My husband, Fred, didn’t ask me to marry him out of the gates. He got to know me. He realized I watched more ESPN than he did, and that when we walked into a stadium we walked down not up – but he also realized I couldn’t cook quite like his mother. Meanwhile, I found out as much as could about him as well. He was smart, funny, and would be an even better husband and father than a boyfriend. It didn’t bother him that my phone rang late at night with players who wanted to discuss each pitch from that evenings outing and it didn’t bother him that I couldn’t whip up a gourmet meal.
Treat business meetings like you’d treat dating. Start by being prepared:
- Make a list of at least twenty people, ten people you know, like and respect and ten people you don’t know. On that list should be people you think you want to be or people who work closely with people you think you want to be.
- Find out everything you can about these twenty people – personally and professionally so you are "in their world."
- Call or email them and ask if they would be kind enough to meet with you for fifteen minutes in an effort for you to get their advice.
- Secure the meeting. Once you have the meeting, send a hand written note thanking them in advance for the meeting, their time and their advice.
- Once the meeting is secured, be prepared in the meeting– by that I mean know everything that you should know about their world and know a few things they don’t think you should know about their business.
- During the meeting, secure three names of people they like and respect and that they believe you should meet with in light of what you have shared as your career passions.
- After the meeting, continue to "date" the person by sporadic, phone calls, handwritten notes, informational emails about your world and their world – show value by being respectfully aggressive.
Done right, you should have been on twenty "dates" and have twenty people who are aware of your career aspirations. Equally as important, you should have sixty more people to meet with.
It may take sixty dates to find the person you want to marry. Hopefully it will take less then sixty meetings to find the job you love.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
I didn't get the mic long enough...
Thursday I was part of a panel in Atlanta with other corporate executives. It was quite a large group of people eager to learn and share ideas. I had to share the mic so I couldn't expand on each and every question to the depth that some of the questions deserved. So, I wanted to take a second and expand on the last question which was "What advice would you give the audience as they move forward in this environment?" I answered by saying I would encourage all of you to BE FEARLESS. To want the ball. I am surrounded by athletes and coaches who want the ball when it’s the 9th inning or want to coach their team in the national championship game and give the half time speech of their life. They embrace the opportunity to be, "the guy."
If I had more time to answer the question Thursday I would have added, if your looking for a job, be fearless in your approach. Make the phone call, send the email – don’t be afraid of “no". I meet people who are afraid of getting "no" so they do nothing at all. You must be fearless in your actions so you can close the relationship gap. One way to do this is by asking for advice. I often say, if you ask for a job you get advice, if you ask for advice you may get a job. Most decent people will give you 15 minutes. Spend 15 minutes getting advice, impress them enough that they might give you three names of people they believe will also be kind enough to spend 15 minutes with you and give you advice. If you are fearless in your job pursuit, you will get in front of all kinds of people, make it a goal for them to either help you or hire you. You can only build relationships and get in front of people, if you are fearless.
If you have a job, now is the time to be someone a company can't live without. Position yourself in such a way that you clearly impact the business in a positive way. Be fearless at times by saying that thing you are confident people may be thinking but don't have the guts to say. Or, put together a business plan that you believe can prove beneficial to your company and approach your boss about pursuing it. Work hard, work smart and remain aware of challenges and ways you can add value in light of those challenges.
Our athletes are fearless when they have the ball and when they are trying to get the ball. I belive you should be as well....be fearless as you pursue your career and be fearless once you have secured it.
If I had more time to answer the question Thursday I would have added, if your looking for a job, be fearless in your approach. Make the phone call, send the email – don’t be afraid of “no". I meet people who are afraid of getting "no" so they do nothing at all. You must be fearless in your actions so you can close the relationship gap. One way to do this is by asking for advice. I often say, if you ask for a job you get advice, if you ask for advice you may get a job. Most decent people will give you 15 minutes. Spend 15 minutes getting advice, impress them enough that they might give you three names of people they believe will also be kind enough to spend 15 minutes with you and give you advice. If you are fearless in your job pursuit, you will get in front of all kinds of people, make it a goal for them to either help you or hire you. You can only build relationships and get in front of people, if you are fearless.
If you have a job, now is the time to be someone a company can't live without. Position yourself in such a way that you clearly impact the business in a positive way. Be fearless at times by saying that thing you are confident people may be thinking but don't have the guts to say. Or, put together a business plan that you believe can prove beneficial to your company and approach your boss about pursuing it. Work hard, work smart and remain aware of challenges and ways you can add value in light of those challenges.
Our athletes are fearless when they have the ball and when they are trying to get the ball. I belive you should be as well....be fearless as you pursue your career and be fearless once you have secured it.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Consistent-Passion-Knowledge Sparks Fearlessness!
I love to give real life examples in my blog – a recent topical subject is Jeff Francoeur (right fielder for the Atlanta Braves) contract negotiation. Baseball contracts for players are handled based on a players years of big league service time. Jeff was in his first year of arbitration which is basically the first time he has the rights to negotiate for a higher salary. Jeff was consistent in his position from the beginning of the off season and he was passionate about being compensated fairly. We kept him well informed and prepared. Jeff and our approach to this process is applicable to how you must approach your career search – consistent-passionate-knowledgeable will stimulate fearlessness.
How do you utilize consistency, passion, knowledge to become fearless? You must remain consistent in your passion for your career. Your consistent passion is what will allow you to remain fearless. In other words, your consistent passion overwhelms the negative voice inside of you that wants to tell you “you can’t do this” or “just forget it”. Your consistent passion will beat out your fears. Your fearlessness is what will continue to create opportunities for you to influence those who you are “recruiting”. Additionally, you must be knowledgeable about the people for which you are working to build relationships. You must be informed as to what is new in their business, with their competition and with their clients. In other words, being prepared with relevant knowledge allows you to insert calmness and strength into your overall style.
In the end, Jeff’s fearless approach in a consistent, passionate and knowledgeable way allowed us to help create choices for him.
His fearlessness provided a fair settlement for he and the organization, your fearlessness can gain you great results as well. Be consistently passionate, be consistently well informed so that you can be fearless.
Go for it - fearlessly!
How do you utilize consistency, passion, knowledge to become fearless? You must remain consistent in your passion for your career. Your consistent passion is what will allow you to remain fearless. In other words, your consistent passion overwhelms the negative voice inside of you that wants to tell you “you can’t do this” or “just forget it”. Your consistent passion will beat out your fears. Your fearlessness is what will continue to create opportunities for you to influence those who you are “recruiting”. Additionally, you must be knowledgeable about the people for which you are working to build relationships. You must be informed as to what is new in their business, with their competition and with their clients. In other words, being prepared with relevant knowledge allows you to insert calmness and strength into your overall style.
In the end, Jeff’s fearless approach in a consistent, passionate and knowledgeable way allowed us to help create choices for him.
His fearlessness provided a fair settlement for he and the organization, your fearlessness can gain you great results as well. Be consistently passionate, be consistently well informed so that you can be fearless.
Go for it - fearlessly!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Fearless Daniel Seddiqui - Livingthemap.com
Fearless in a Crowd
It is human nature to stop and take notice of the unusual, different, odd or anything against the norm. It is why we rubberneck on the highway at a car accident, it is why we stare at the teenager on the sidewalk with purple spiked hair, it is why reality TV has brought record ratings to network TV. And it’s also why we hold certain athletes, movie stars and successful business people in such high regard. They have elevated their own game above the norm. We may not recognize a rookie PGA tour player in the grocery store, but Tiger Woods would be mobbed by fans.
So take the same theory that we are all curious about the unusual and apply it to the CEO or HR director at Any Company, Inc. They see thousands of resumes, they get hundreds of phone calls, and referrals come in every day from friends, family and neighbors. When looking to hire somebody new, everybody looks the same on an 8 1/2 by 11 sheet of paper.
So how do you stand out from the crowd? Times are tough right now, unemployment is at a 16-year high! It will be tougher than ever to stand out in the crowd. In my book, Your Dream Job Game Plan, I outline several ways to stand out – ways that you can NOT get your resume to the top of the heap – but get a face-to-face meeting with the person that will ACTUALLY hire you.
One of the greatest examples of standing out from the crowd that I have recently come across is from Daniel Seddiqui.
From Daniel’s blog www.livingthemap.com: “Ever since I graduated from the University of Southern California, I have experienced uncertainty regarding my career path. Interviewing for a position was a full-time job and I wasn't having any luck; failing 40+ interviews. I never received feedback from any employers, so when I was offered a position no matter how irrelevant it was to my field of study, I accepted. I took my first position tutoring elementary students part-time. I knew right off the bat tutoring wasn't for me. I was realizing that I had to find a position that motivated me to wake up every morning.”
Click the video link below and visit Daniel’s blog to see what he did about his predicament. This was inspiring to me – I hope you find it equally helpful in your pursuits.
http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=6607573
It is human nature to stop and take notice of the unusual, different, odd or anything against the norm. It is why we rubberneck on the highway at a car accident, it is why we stare at the teenager on the sidewalk with purple spiked hair, it is why reality TV has brought record ratings to network TV. And it’s also why we hold certain athletes, movie stars and successful business people in such high regard. They have elevated their own game above the norm. We may not recognize a rookie PGA tour player in the grocery store, but Tiger Woods would be mobbed by fans.
So take the same theory that we are all curious about the unusual and apply it to the CEO or HR director at Any Company, Inc. They see thousands of resumes, they get hundreds of phone calls, and referrals come in every day from friends, family and neighbors. When looking to hire somebody new, everybody looks the same on an 8 1/2 by 11 sheet of paper.
So how do you stand out from the crowd? Times are tough right now, unemployment is at a 16-year high! It will be tougher than ever to stand out in the crowd. In my book, Your Dream Job Game Plan, I outline several ways to stand out – ways that you can NOT get your resume to the top of the heap – but get a face-to-face meeting with the person that will ACTUALLY hire you.
One of the greatest examples of standing out from the crowd that I have recently come across is from Daniel Seddiqui.
From Daniel’s blog www.livingthemap.com: “Ever since I graduated from the University of Southern California, I have experienced uncertainty regarding my career path. Interviewing for a position was a full-time job and I wasn't having any luck; failing 40+ interviews. I never received feedback from any employers, so when I was offered a position no matter how irrelevant it was to my field of study, I accepted. I took my first position tutoring elementary students part-time. I knew right off the bat tutoring wasn't for me. I was realizing that I had to find a position that motivated me to wake up every morning.”
Click the video link below and visit Daniel’s blog to see what he did about his predicament. This was inspiring to me – I hope you find it equally helpful in your pursuits.
http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=6607573
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Fearless Coach Tomlin
Congrats Pittsburgh Steelers!
Although the game was fantastic, I found myself more interested in the story behind Coach Tomlin. Here is a man who interviewed for a head coaching job with a franchise that had only two coaches -Chuck Noll and Bill Cowher - in the previous 38 years, not to mention his young age of 34.
How did he do it? He was FEARLESS!
Steelers President Art Rooney said Tomilin's "presence", was the swing factor during the interview process. In other words, he was fearless in the job interview and it showed. He was willing to risk a "no", but also knew he was the right person for the job. He was prepared for the interview with a half dozen binders. Even a binder for "When we get to the superbowl"! He knew that he was the right person for the job and he got it. The rest is history...............
Being fearless is the key to getting the career you want!
Although the game was fantastic, I found myself more interested in the story behind Coach Tomlin. Here is a man who interviewed for a head coaching job with a franchise that had only two coaches -Chuck Noll and Bill Cowher - in the previous 38 years, not to mention his young age of 34.
How did he do it? He was FEARLESS!
Steelers President Art Rooney said Tomilin's "presence", was the swing factor during the interview process. In other words, he was fearless in the job interview and it showed. He was willing to risk a "no", but also knew he was the right person for the job. He was prepared for the interview with a half dozen binders. Even a binder for "When we get to the superbowl"! He knew that he was the right person for the job and he got it. The rest is history...............
Being fearless is the key to getting the career you want!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Fearless February!
Fearless February!
Being fearless is a choice! What does it take to be fearless as you pursue a career? You must temporarily suspend your need for security. Quite simply GET OVER IT!
All of February, I will be discussing what it means to be fearless. In these crazy times, it is extremely hard to be fearless, but even more important. Check out my blog the rest of February for tips and examples of people that have embraced being fearless in their career. If you or someone you know has shown fearlessness, please email me, so I can share with our community.
Being fearless is a choice! What does it take to be fearless as you pursue a career? You must temporarily suspend your need for security. Quite simply GET OVER IT!
All of February, I will be discussing what it means to be fearless. In these crazy times, it is extremely hard to be fearless, but even more important. Check out my blog the rest of February for tips and examples of people that have embraced being fearless in their career. If you or someone you know has shown fearlessness, please email me, so I can share with our community.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Great event with Big Ten and MSU Alumni in Dallas, TX
Wow! What a great event in Dallas, TX. A big thanks to everyone that attended. We had a full house of Big Ten and Michigan State Alumni employed and unemployed, eager to be inspired in their career. The job market in Dallas is soft, as it is everywhere right now, so I really emphasized the power of networking. It is so important to network and connect with people that might hire you, but also help you in your search. I hope everyone went home and wrote down their "10 people I know" list!
John Hill, Career Director MSU Alumni and organizer of event, expanded on this by speaking about LinkedIn. LinkedIn is the premiere networking tool in business today, with over 33 million members worldwide. If you aren't on it, get on it! The site can network you with more people than you thought possible and even help create a connection with someone within the company you are looking to get hired by. This is Key! More importantly, once this connection is made, you need to "take action". For those of you that went home with the book, Chapter 10-Take Action, has great examples on how to succeed. Thanks again and if you have any questions, click on Ask Molly and ask away!
John Hill, Career Director MSU Alumni and organizer of event, expanded on this by speaking about LinkedIn. LinkedIn is the premiere networking tool in business today, with over 33 million members worldwide. If you aren't on it, get on it! The site can network you with more people than you thought possible and even help create a connection with someone within the company you are looking to get hired by. This is Key! More importantly, once this connection is made, you need to "take action". For those of you that went home with the book, Chapter 10-Take Action, has great examples on how to succeed. Thanks again and if you have any questions, click on Ask Molly and ask away!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Gathering Intel On Prospective Employers by Joyce Lain Kennedy
DEAR JOYCE: Just when I was about to interview for a good job, I was unnerved to learn that an old nemesis -- the woman is a real jerk -- already works in that company. I didn't know what to say, so I said nothing, although it was on my mind throughout the interview. If that ever happens again, what should I do? -- B.V.
DEAR B.V.: Molly Fletcher, a top sports agent and the author of "Your Dream Job Game Plan" (JIST, 2008) offers good advice: "If the nemesis is someone you'll work with or see often on the job, approach that person directly and work toward developing a positive resolution." When interaction with the jerk will be limited, you need not be concerned about your unpleasant history -- out of sight, out of mind. But if you tell the interviewer about your conflicted history with a current employee, you're probably toast.
DEAR B.V.: Molly Fletcher, a top sports agent and the author of "Your Dream Job Game Plan" (JIST, 2008) offers good advice: "If the nemesis is someone you'll work with or see often on the job, approach that person directly and work toward developing a positive resolution." When interaction with the jerk will be limited, you need not be concerned about your unpleasant history -- out of sight, out of mind. But if you tell the interviewer about your conflicted history with a current employee, you're probably toast.
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