Hannah Morgan

Retraining Alone Is Not the Answer

For those of you who are not familiar with Peter Weddle and his newsletter and other resources, I encourage you to peruse his site here.

His most recent "eye catching" news letter article was entitled "Retraining is Useless".  Weddle sites a Department of Labor study of 160,000 Unemployment Insurance claimants and the outcome...neutral.  Completion of training subsidized by the DOL neither helped nor hurt the students.

You can read the full article here.  Weddle's article provides helpful advice on what to consider if you do plan on going back for retraining. 

The best solution to protecting your career is to stay current, period.  Self study and use of that knowledge in a real environment can certain work wonders.  Here is a post on professional development resources you may find helpful. "Finding Professional Development Ops"

When was the last training you attended, formal or informal?  How did you use that new knowledge? Oh, and why did you want to learn that stuff?

Personal Branding Is A Way of Living

You've heard the term PERSONAL BRAND more often than you care to admit.  What's all the hype?  What does it really mean?

Personal Branding is a way of living.  It is about being true to your core values and capitalizing (literally) on your strengths.  Think "reputation".  What is it your friends, family, peers and others say about you?  What do you stand for and what do you take a stand on?!

Your brand is more than a catchy tagline.  It is the whole shebang, you. It includes your quirks too.  It is what you say and do and what how others perceive you.

I would guess that every one reading this already has the beginning of a personal brand.  They have strengths and a reputation.

Step 2 is to take what you know about yourself and find ways to "live" it - thought, word and deed.

Thinking your brand

What are your priorities, goals, values, biases, phobias, motivators, stressors?

What are those thoughts, ideas, concepts that pop into your head regularly?  Do others know about your thoughts?

Speaking and writing your brand

When you communicate, your brand oozes out.  Your choice of words, your tone, your attitude are all conveyed. Who is hearing this? Who else needs to hear it?

Acting out your brand

The things you choose to act on, the things you do, the activities you support and are involved with, the events you are associated with are all ways you act out your brand.  Are the right people seeing this?

You can't live your life constantly worrying about this stuff, it would drive you crazy.  You CAN assess it every once in awhile.  When was the last time you stopped and took a look at this?  Try using the SWOT analysis to see how you are doing.  What are your strengths in living your brand (are you thinking, speaking, acting on-brand).  Where are your weaknesses in living your brand (what could you be better at doing).  Where are there opportunities to live your brand more or better? Are there threats to living your brand?  (What might be a concern now or in the future to you and your brand).

Don't live in a bubble, get help with this.  Brainstorm with people you have trusting relationships with.  Is living on-brand something you do now?  I would love to hear from you.

Tom Peters says "The calendar never lies"!

When was the last time you reviewed your calendar from previous weeks?  Gosh, I can tell you, personally, maybe once or twice in the last year.  That's why I was so impressed by Tom's video.  Tom says "You are your calendar".  While many may disagree, either because they don't keep a calendar or don't write things on the calendar, it does show you where your time has been invested...it points to the priorities.

Frequently job seekers miss the structure of their jobs.  Using a calendar is an effective way to manage your time.  Duh, you know this already.  It is hard to do.

The other point Tom makes is that you should line up a "buddy" to review your calendar with you to really see where your priorities have been and if you are living up to what your commitments are!

Go ahead and watch this video (it is only 2.28 minutes).  I hope this motivates you!

4 Steps to Assessing Your Next Dream Job

It seems that companies are still laying off employees.  We aren't out of the woods yet and perhaps we never will be.  The reality of today's work is that it could end tomorrow, no matter how valuable you are or how secure you think your job is.

New York state, as well as other states, are having a difficult time balancing their budgets which is trickling down to schools and municipal services.  In my town we've lost a bunch of full time firefighters and our school district is laying off hundreds.  These are the kinds of employees who have become used to feeling secure.  Who would have thought they would be in the ranks of unemployed?  We NEED teachers and firefighters.  

It just goes to show, no one's job is safe any longer.  The faster you realize this, the easier it will be to start taking steps today to proactively managing your career. 

So what do you do if you think you will be next on the chopping block or you want to start being proactive?

Determine what excites you

If you've been in a job awhile, you may have forgotten why you started doing it in the first place.

• What is is you love doing within your role?
• What is it that motivates you to go to work?
• What types of people do you enjoy working with? 
• What kinds of problems do you like to solve? 
• What has been one of your most memorable accomplishments?

These are not easy questions.  They are absolutely the most important ones to answer first.

What would your dream job look like (literally)?

Before you start searching the job boards, identify your dream job.

• Would you go to an office?
• What would the office look like?
• What kinds of people would work there?
• How would your day be structured/how would you spend your time?
• What kinds of things would you be doing?
• Who would you report to?
• How would you like to be compensated?
• What kind of recognition would you want to feel good about the work you do?

Answer these questions without filtering out answers that seem crazy or unrealistic.  Just dump the answers on the page for now.

Inventory your skills

Create a list of skills you love to use and think you're good at.  While you are at it, create a list of skills that you don't like.  Then create a list of skills you want to develop or get better at using.

If you want a good listing of occupational skills, visit this link from ONet. 

Talk it out

Now you are ready to run this information by people you know and trust.  Ask them for their advice on where these things might fit.  This will allow you to create yet another list of ideas to pursue.

There is no magic wand.  There are tons of assessments out there, some free, some are not.  Even these assessments will not be able to say "You should be a Nano Technologist".  This isn't an exact science.  Finding a fulfilling job is as unique as you are and there is always more than one "correct" answer.  The good thing is, no one says you have to do this job for the rest of your life.  If you don't like it, guess what, you can leave!  

Sometimes it isn't the destination, but the journey, that enlightens! 

Seeking Training- Part 1

This week I mentioned the decrease in company training budgets in one of my posts.  The result...WE need to pursue our own personal and professional development.  So easily said.  Where do you turn for training?  Before you get frustrated or give up on this initiative, let's take a step back.

What is the training you are seeking?  Let's look at the whole picture and not just the immediate need.  Training is not a quick fix.  It should be process of learning and development. 

Start with an assessment of where your skills are.  Then look at which ones you want to develop. 

This is a model of general workforce competencies from the Department of Labor.  It is a solid list.  The DOL has a site filled with specific industry competencies, so visit their site here. 

Tier 3 competencies:

• Teamwork
• Adaptability/Flexibility
• Customer Focus
• Planning & Organizing
• Creative Thinking
• Problem Solving & Decision Making
• Working with Tools & Technology
• Workplace Computer Applications
• Scheduling & Coordinating
  
• Checking, Examining & Recording
• Business Fundamentals

Now, where do you rank and where do you need or want to be?  Can you say Gap Analysis?

With this information in hand, you can begin to develop your personal learning plan.  It will give you an idea of what type of training and development to look for as well as prioritize.

Imagine actually creating this gap analysis and bringing it in to a meeting with your manager? OK, not everyone should or could.  But it will provide you with the logic to build a case for pursuing training that might need the financial support of your company. 

You could use the findings from your gap analysis and plan to network to find training resources.  Imagine asking a colleague where you might find resources for developing creative thinking.  Have they read any good books, attended any seminars or seen any webinars on the topic?

Another really helpful resource for creating your personal training plan in ONet Skills Search.  Especially if you are thinking about changing careers or industries or both.  It maps out the skills required for hundreds of occupations.  

Remember, Emotional Intelligence:

1. The ability to recognize, understand and express emotions and feelings
2. The ability to manage and control feelings
3. The ability to generate positive effects and be self-motivated
4. The ability to understand how others feel and to relate to them
5. The ability to manage change, adapt and solve problems of a personal and interpersonal nature

Also remember Resiliency.

Personal Development Is Dying

What happens to the training budgets and staff when a company is in financial trouble?  They are cut, right.

What kind of budget does a small company (1-100 employees) have for training there workers on soft skills?

Where is the average employee getting their soft skills training today?

Are colleges and universities specifically developing self-awareness knowledge in their curricula?

These are the questions we need to think about and answer.  We need leaders.  We need good employees that won't leave due to poor management or unhealthy work cultures.  This can't change unless we invest in the personal development of our workforce.

I've worked for a large law firm and smaller companies and I can honestly say that I have only received soft skill training once.  OK, maybe twice, if you call Diversity Training soft skill development.

If this is indicative of what others have not experienced, we are all in trouble. 

How do we expect to have a company of innovators and strategic leaders if we haven't taught them how to communicate effectively with different personalities or if they don't know how to manage their emotions?  Do we expect a one-time seminar or workshop will "fix" them? 

So maybe it isn't about "training" per se, but about building a mentoring program which would supply regular feedback and coaching and development.

Emotional Intelligence is a key factor to an individuals success in life and the job.  Where are we supposed to go to learn how to develop our Emotional Intelligence? Todd Bavol of Adventures of the Job Search Ninja wrote a super post about Emotional Intelligence and if you are wondering what it is, here are the five elements as he simply defines them:

1. Knowing your emotions
2. Managing your emotions
3. Self-motivation
4. Recognizing and understanding the emotions of others
5. Managing relationships or, to put it another way, managing the emotions of others

These are the areas we should be developing.  Improvement in these areas will make us better, stronger, more employable, better innovators, better leaders.  Or so I think.  What are your thoughts?  Where is this training happening? 

Which of the Seven Dwarfs Are You?

Can you name the seven dwarfs?  Why and what does this have to do with your career?  These wonderful characters might just be your clue to understanding yourself better- either in job search or on the job.  

1. Sneezy
2. Sleepy
3. Dopey
4. Doc
5. Happy
6. Bashful
7. Grumpy

Sneezy had a physical ailment, easily treated with today's medicine or change in diet.  

Sleepy would fall asleep anywhere, any time. 

Dopey was never taken seriously.

Doc had the answers.

Happy was...happy.  Positive, upbeat.

Bashful always blushed but worse he was always turning his head away, avoiding eye contact.

Grumpy was an unpleasant complainer. 

Do you see yourself in any of these dwarfs?  Heigh-Ho, Heigh-Ho, its off to work you go!

Changing Careers, Changing Industy.

In order to survive and/or thrive you might need to make a change in your targeted industry or job function.  Making this change can be a challenge and take time, but it is possible.

Decide what it is you want to do.  Easier said than done, I know.  I've met people who've taken the Myers-Briggs, DISC, and all sorts of other assessments.  Sometimes they work, sometimes they don't seem to. I like the simplicity and practicality of O*Net Interest Profiler.  

But it isn't as easy as waving a magic wand and getting the answer.  You'll need to test the answers by talking with people in that industry and career.  Charting A New Career Course by Susan Joyce provides recommendations on how to evaluate a new career choice. 

Once you've narrowed your options down and pinpointed the right direction, it is crucial that you begin to "connect the dots" for people.  You are responsible for conveying the connection of transferable skills.  To learn how to do this, read Networking for Career Changer and "Renaissance Personalities" 

Here are some interesting posts about "connecting the dots"

Improve your job search prospects don't order in French at a Chinese food restaurant

Career Testing Good, Bad and Ugly

4 Lames Excuses to Not Assess Yourself

I Can Do That

Have you changed industries or careers?  How did you do it?

Famous Last Words of Job Seekers

What is the one piece of advice you would give to a fellow job seeker?  What worked in your search?  What didn't?

These questions have been asked many times and the answers come back fairly the same from different successful seekers.  However, the answers aren't as specific as I think you are looking for.  What you really want to know is:  what is the one thing I can do to find a job more quickly.  I don't think there is one answer to this question. 

Here are some of the re-occurring answers to the 3 questions above.

What's the one piece of advice you would give to fellow job seekers?

• Stay positive
• Volunteer
• Network
• Be focused on what you are looking for

What worked for you in your search?

• Being focused on what I was looking for
• Networking more
• Networking less at the big groups
• Applying for more jobs online
• Applying for fewer jobs online
• Contacting recruiters
• Not relying solely on recruiters

What didn't work for you in your search?

• Spending too much time online
• Trying to be all things to all people

See, I told you.  There isn't a simple answer or a quick fix or even one solution that works for everyone.  Each of you come into the job search with a different level of knowledge and understanding about the process.  Each of you has a different approach, comfort level and skill level. 

There's an old saying "Everything in moderation.  Nothing in excess". 

See where you are spending your time and energy and then try to evaluate your results from these activities.  Are they working? 

If you have secured a new job, what are your answers to these three question?

"Best Of" tools for Job Seekers

Learning about related or tangent careers is something most job seekers struggle with.  Whether it is re-naming what you use as a job title or drastically changing careers, learning the new terminology can be a challenge.

Before you can move forward with your search, you have to figure out what you want to do and give it a name.  Hopefully this will be the most accurate name/title.  This can be difficult because companies use different job titles. 

One of the easier ways to find out related job titles is to go to O*Net.  

From this main page, select Browse under FIND OCCUPATIONS and type in your old job title.  

This will provide you with a Summary Report listing: similar job titles, tasks/job description, tools and technology, skills, education, wages and trends, related occupations, etc.  

With a little playing around you can begin exploring more related occupations and learn about their requirements. 

People, job seekers, ask a lot, "I want to know what jobs are in demand or fore-casted to be in demand".  Actually, that isn't really how they phrase it.  They ask:  "I want to find a job that is secure, where would I find it?" 

Occupational Outlook Quarterly does a thorough job explaining where industries are headed and what occupations will be needed. 

Last, but not least, the Department of Labor has released its survey results of tools people feel to be most helpful.  They all appear on Job Seeker Tools.  

Personally, I wouldn't consider job boards a tool right now, but...

Under the heading of CAREER EXPLORATION TOOLS, there seems to be some resources that might assist with exploring new jobs that are a match for your interest, skills and abilities.  

Once you have begun to create a list of titles that interest you, start asking people what they think and who they know. (These can be called networking meetings or informational meetings, by the way). In speaking with people really doing the job, you will learn whether this might be the right direction for you, or not.  No investment in this process is a waste of time.  Think about what you've learned and who you've met as you've gone through the process. 

Why Do Job Seekers Obsess Over Their Resumes?

How many people have actually been hired because they had a kick a** resume?  Really?  Did the new boss actually say, "the reason I hired you was because your resume was excellent"? 

The resume can be a door opener.  Can be.  But it depends on so many things. 

• Does it meet the personal preferences of that individual?  Everyone likes to see different styles of resumes. 
• Has it demonstrated you have the exact skills and more importantly background and experience they are looking for?  Or that they think they are looking for?
• Did it get enough key word hits from their resume reading software? 
• Did the intern or new HR recruiter understand what you were talking about?  Will they forward it along?

In many cases, a referral or personal endorsement, is the reason your resume got read or pulled from the stack of hundreds.  This referral may actually be the only reason you were called in for an interview. 

Hiring decisions are made during the interview.  No matter what your resume says, it is your performance during the interview that either moves you forward or not. 

So what will your strategy be to get yourself prepared for the interview?  Do you rehearse?  Do you practice in front of a mirror or video camera?

Most new job seekers ask for help with their resumes. WRONG. WRONG.  WRONG.  They need help in assessing their strengths and developing a marketing plan which will guide their networking activities.  Then they need to begin learning about the needs of their target companies.  Only after these things have been done is the job seeker ready to write a document that addresses the specific needs of those companies.  This is called Marketing .  

It is my contention that if job seekers put twice as much effort into self assessment and market research (instead of obsessing over their resumes) they would be a great deal more active and productive.

Personal Branding, Who Needs It?

What is personal branding anyway?  Wikipedia says:

Personal branding is the process whereby people and their careers are marked as brands (Lair, Sullivan & Cheney 2005).

Who needs it?  We all need it.  Today, more than ever before.  But it shouldn't be fake.  It has to be genuine- real- authentic. And even if you are "just looking for a new job" you need it too!

Jason Alba posted this slideshow on his blog the other day.  It does a great job of defining what it is and how to define and build your brand.  (sluggish at times, be patient).  Brand You: Personal Branding.

(Great work Kristian Anderson)

If you are looking for more information on personal branding, there are some gurus who write about it.  It seems every one is writing about it, because it is a critical component of career management and job search.  You can say you don't need it.  You can say it doesn't apply to you. However, it is real and it IS for everyone.  

Dan Schwabel:  Personal Branding Blog

Tom Peters, The Brand Called You, from Fast Company from 1997

Collection of Personal Branding Articles from QuintCareers

Reach Personal Branding Newsletter from William Arruda

Executive Resume Branding (and more)

Loss- A Time for Reflection

The loss of a job.  The loss of a family member.  Divorce.  These endings are bitter sweet.  They mark the end of life as we knew it.  They also create new opportunities and open a new chapter in our lives.

There are predictable emotions that we all must go through after a loss.  Elizabeth Kubler-Ross wrote about them and I described them here.  While going through these emotions, I hope you take the time to reflect on what you've learned.  Ask what you've loved doing.  Ask yourself what you want to be known for.  Muddle these answers around in your head for awhile. Share the answers with friends and family.  Out of the past comes our future and there is most certainly a bright light for you to move toward.

I am finally ready to write this post.  My father, whom we called Pop, passed away in early January. He was and always will be my moral compass, mentor, biggest fan, and hero.  As I cope with his loss, I've been reflecting on his life.  Sympathy cards flood the mailbox with wonderful memories from the many people who's lives he touched.  They've called him a connector, they've said he could light up a room, they've recalled how he loved to tell jokes and stories.  Yes, all these are true.  They all stem from his love and interest of people.  He could and would start conversations with anyone.  His interest in other people is his legacy.  

Professionally, Pop was a search consultant, ie executive recruiter. He found high level executives for high profile companies. His love of people created his vast network which allowed him to be successful in his profession.  He wasn't always a recruiter, but that innate talent for building and nurturing relationships was his niche.  He knew what he was good at and he stayed true to that.

I am grateful for the lessons he taught me.  I am sad he won't be around to teach me more.  Yet, as I reflect on what he loved doing and what he was known for and what he wanted to be known for, there is a consistency.  He was true to his calling and his values.  

As you grieve the loss of your job, don't you owe it to yourself to reflect on your past.  Take from those experiences the consistent pieces and map out your legacy, personally and professionally.  It is not the end.  It is the beginning.

Thank you Pop.

2010- A New Year Begins with Confidence

A New Year, a new you.  A New Year, a clean slate.  A New Year, a new job.  A New Year, a new beginning.  See how all these snippets are future oriented?  That's where we're headed. 

Building confidence is as easy as setting a course and moving towards it.  How do you set the course?  You will want to find the arena you feel best playing in.  What is that?  Where is that, you might be asking.  You already know, because you've done it before. 

1.  Recall the times in your life you've felt on top of the world-you knew what you were doing and you just felt great. 

2.  Next document those events.  Use STAR

Situation
Task
Actions
Result

3.  Now, looking at those actions you took, what were you doing?  Where were you doing them?  Who were you interacting with?

If you have more than one story documented, you can begin looking at the reoccurring themes.  Chances are quite great that you will see some sort of pattern or at least some overlap.

4.  Next, how can you recreate this?

One of the secrets to confidence is your ability to re-create your talents in a similar and/or new situation. 

Hopefully you had a fun-filled evening last night, surrounded by friends and family.  Ringing in the New Year has never been one of my favorite traditions.  The evening is setup with expectations that never seem quite met. But I love the thought of starting the New Year off right.  I've made my resolution or as my son said: "revolution".  I will be nicer to people this year.  Trite, perhaps, yet a huge order to fill.  I'll start off by trying to be other-centric.  I will help where I can.  Thus, today's post is to help a fellow job search blogger...Tim Tyrell-Smith.  He will be talking about confidence too. His blog, Spin Strategy is a must-read for any job seeker/career enthusiast. Tim also has a Spin Strategy LinkedIn group.  It is active and worth joining, so go now!

Take A Step Back and Look at Your Job Search

Sometimes if we are to close to something it is difficult to identify what the opportunities for improvement are.  This has been a long road for you, I am sure.  You've done all you can possibly do to find a job and it doesn't seem to be working. But maybe it is, just not fast enough for you.  Or maybe it isn't and it is time to find out why. 

Step back.

Take a look at the bigger picture.

• What have you learned over the past few months?
• Have you met new people?
• Have you taught yourself to use new technology?
• Who have you helped along the way?

This is supposed to generate some positive feelings.  You are ready for the next step back!

SWOT

What are your strenghths?

• Unique selling points
• Value-added capabilities
• Innovative
• Communication
• Experience, knowledge, certification

Where are the weaknesses?

• Gaps in capabilities
• Lack of competitive strength
• Reputation, presence and reach
• Own known vulnerabilities
• Time-frame, UI deadlines and pressures
• Core activities, distraction
• Plan implementation
• Morale, commitment, leadership
• Accreditations
• Processes and systems

What are the opportunities?

• Market demand
• New technologies, services, ideas
• Contracts
• Economy

What are the threats?

• Market demand
• New technologies, services, ideas
• Obstacles faced
• Economy

(Thanks to Businessballs.com for the SWOT analysis questions)

The start of the New Year is a great time to re-assess and re-focus.  Take a step back and look at the bigger picture!  The actions you take today will create the opportunities of tomorrow. 

Leave Your 'Tude at the Door

Ever had a bad day?  What about a bad week? Anyone ever had a bad year?  It is possible and most likely probable that you have. 

Job search is rough on the emotions.  It takes us places we don't want to go...feeling rejected, vulnerable, angry, anxiety-ridden, depressed and sometimes all at the same time.

Check these emotions at the door before you leave your home. 

Amazingly, many people don't see this in themselves, or if they do, perhaps they feel entitled to these emotions. 

It is OK and even normal to have these feelings.  Find someone who will listen when you are having a "spell".

What can you do to prevent and release these emotions:

• Don't take it personally, rejection is part of the process
• Identify a friend who will listen
• Identify another friend who will call you out on your behavior
• Identify yet another friend who will pull you out of a slump
• The decision to let you go was a business transaction only
• This is going to take longer than you want, brace yourself financially
• Carve time out for things you enjoy doing or take up a new hobby

Most likely, everyone will have to go through this job search again. This won't be the last time and believe it or not, it will be easier next time.

What is your plan for finding a new job?

Do you have a plan?  According to a recent survey hosted by Robert Half, 82% of those surveyed said they were ready.  The survey also asked who had an updated resume.  44% said it has been over a year since they've updated that document. Yikes!  Almost half the people hadn't touched their resume in over a year.  They aren't ready. 

It certainly isn't all about the resume.  But having one that is updated and ready to go at all times means something.  It means that you are thinking about what you've accomplished in your job.

I would also venture to guess that those 44% are not active on LinkedIn either.  If they are too busy to update their resumes, they probably don't see the value of LinkedIn. Nor do they realize that over 80% of recruiters and HR professionals are using this tool to source candidates. 

How can 82% feel they are ready for a search if they don't have a plan? Do they think finding a job is easy?  Are they not talking to the thousands of people who have been searching for months?

To all of you out there, get a plan. Even if you don't have a job yet.  What will you do to continue building your network and look for your next great job while employed?

• Ask your company to sponsor your membership in a professional association
• Identify training that will add value to your brand
• Carve time into your schedule to attend local business networking events
• Attend conferences, better yet, speak at conferences
• Start up a blog, maybe even a company sponsored one
• Follow and meet the key movers and shakers in your occupation and/or industry

All the things you are doing right now in job search need to be continued once you land a job but most likely scaled back.

Ask yourself, "if I lost my job tomorrow, what would I do?"  It is never going to be as easy as we think it is going to be.  

How will 14 more weeks Help You?

If signed off on by President Obama, job seekers will have their unemployment benefits extended 14 more weeks. Read more about the bill here.

Let me ask a question:  if you knew your benefits were ending this week or even next week, what would you do?  What actions would you take?  What would you change or do differently?

There is a small feeling of security knowing that there is at least some money coming in the door.  It is guaranteed as long as you are playing by the rules.  It is buying you time until you can land that "good paying" job.  Well, where is that good paying job?  When will it become available?  Will it be there this year or maybe next year, or maybe not at all? 

In my opinion, this extension is prolonging the delay in many workers going back to work.  It is giving them the hope that they'll be able to secure another hefty paycheck, or at least a paycheck close to what they were making before.  What if those jobs are gone and not coming back... or at least not in the quantities necessary?

I encourage everyone reading this to consider:

• Looking for work far outside your preferred radius.
  That may mean commuting farther, temporarily moving out of town, or relocating.
  
• Spending more time looking for employment.
  The average unemployed person is spending less than 10 hours a week. While I am sure most of you are spending more than 10 hours, could you spend more time?
• Getting job search help.
  Either at no-cost, through you local One-Stop or invest in a professional Career Coach.
  
• Adjusting your budget and spending habits.
  Have you really cut as much as you can? We're in a recession, this SHOULD be painful. Do you evaluate each purchase by asking "Do I need this or do I want this?"
• Changing what you are doing.
  If you are using the same resume, the same websites, the same practice of submitting resumes and waiting, the same networking groups, the same of anything, do it differently or do something else instead.
• Communicating differently.
  Whatever it is you are saying, it doesn't seem to be working if you are still unemployed. It could also be HOW you are saying it. Change your tone.
  
• Taking a job that is less than perfect, if just for now.
  If the job is at least close to what you can do, consider taking it. What will you learn by doing this? A lot!
  
• Starting your own business or becoming a consultant.
  This is risky. Be smart in how you start it up. Consult this post for more resources.

I realize times are hard.  I also know that people are getting jobs every day right now.  There are jobs!  Take one and see how good it feels!

Do You Need Some Honest Feedback?

I'm heading into dangerous waters with this post, I know.  Have you ever run into someone who doesn't know when to stop talking?  Or been stuck in a conversation with someone who talks about themselves the entire time?  Or how about meeting someone who is so negative, a complainer, bitter and/or angry?

How do you handle these situations?  I think we tolerate the person and then make our escape as soon as we can, right?  But, is that the right approach? 

I know that person didn't ask for your feedback, but before leaving their company, could you ask "Can I provide you with some feedback?"  If they say yes, let 'em have it.  It is possible that they are unaware of their behavior?  Is it possible that you could be the 10th person to provide that same feedback and perhaps they'll change?  Is it also possible that they'll get mad and stomp off?

Every day, sadly, I encounter people who are "damaged goods".  They are riddled with negativity, lack self awareness, and sometimes are even rude.  If I was an employer, I wouldn't touch them with a 10-foot pole.  I also know that people in job search are going through difficult times.  Yet, I don't believe this excuses them. 

So, maybe it isn't your job to coach these folks, it is mine. 

My six word memoir is:

 Sharing information. Holding accountable.  Better world.

Sometimes we get our hands slapped.  That's life.  I am tired of the political correctness that has taken over our society.  If you are acting like a jerk, why can't I politely call you out on your behavior?

Help me here.  How would things and people change if we asked if we could provide them with some feedback?  Would it make a difference?

You Want A Change, But You Don't Know What To Do

This has been quite a year for people searching for work.  Many of them are thinking about doing something different.  While changing careers and/or industry can be difficult, it is certainly possible.  This change is particularly difficult with so many people unemployed.  The competition among qualified candidates is great.  For someone wanting to move into a new industry, this can be a difficult hurdle.  They are immediately seen as less qualified for not having the industry experience.  However, if using strong networking contacts, lacking some of the requirements can sometimes be overlooked.

I asked the question the other day of some twitter colleagues about how they recommend job seekers find new occupations that might be of interest.  One colleague recommended using LinkedIn.  She recommends her clients use that to find people with similar backgrounds and look at what career paths have been and where they go onto next.  (If I could remember who said this, I would certainly give her credit, sorry)

The other tool I recommend all the time to people is O*Net.  It has a new look and includes "Green Occupations".  (Thank you to @KarenUnderhill at MinnesotaWorks for the update info).

Most importantly, it is going to take conversations with people to get some of the clarifying information you will need to move forward.  Those people can be friends, mentors, career coaches...They key is to keep the process of exploration moving forward.  Don't delay.  Set a deadline.  There may not be any ONE perfect job, so don't hold out.  Explore and move forward with one of interest and see where that information takes you.  You may find something else along the way. 

If you know someone who is exploring, help them by introducing them to people who may be able to help provide information (not a job, INFORMATION).

If you are looking for ideas of emerging occupations/predictions for hot occupations, you'll have to read this article from Fast Company.  Here are the top 3, no surprises...

1. Nursing/Medical Services
2. Computing /Engineering
3. Education

The article also explores some predicted trends in types of employment for the future.  What do you know about telecommuting?  Will there really be droves of people retiring?  These and other issues are already impacting the employment situation.   Also check out Fast Company's link to the Best Green jobs. 

Keep your eyes and ears open!

"I want a job that's secure..."

In this rapidly changing world, it is no surprise that job seekers are looking for security and stability.  Honestly, who really wants to be in job search again any time soon?  But I don't think that should be the number one priority in finding a new job or career. Or better yet, let's redefine what "job security" is.

In my mind, job security means that we can take our skills and transfer them to another company when we need to.  (When, not if). We can't control the decisions of a company, we can control the decisions we make. Those decisions include a commitment to develop our skills to be transferable and the knowledge to know where they transfer to. 

There are job seekers that are pursuing career changes into the medical field, solely because, those are "in demand". Well, that and the fact that some of the colleges are promoting certificate programs that make it tempting.  Most of these people were not cut out to be direct care providers (Phlebotomists, nurses, CNA's, Medical office workers).  Or, they didn't do enough research to figure out what those jobs really entailed (odd shifts for entry level positions, working with sick people, understaffed/overworked environments, dealing with the public).

When choosing a new work environment, career, job, whatever, you need to start by assessing what it is you like doing best.  "I like teaching people", "I like organizing work processes", "I like solving complex problems" could all translate into a variety of jobs and industries. 

Instead of focusing on where the jobs are most abundant, focus on where your passion is most abundant.

Why People Get Hired

Despite the doom and gloom being reported by the media and the high unemployment rates, people are securing new jobs every day.  Not just jobs, but good jobs. However, this is not happening in the quantities we would all like to see.

Let's take a look at some of those people to determine how they got hired.

1.  They were "A" players, stars in their field, best of the best.

No, we can't all be "A" players.  Only a very small percentage of us are.  But what we do know is that "A" players stand out in the ocean of average job seekers.  They've had astonishing results, they know how to take credit for doing what they've done and they usually are able to have an immediate impact in their new roles. 

2.  They knew the right people or at least were masterful networkers.

We can all learn how to network better, with more poise and efficiency.  It takes practice, not just sitting in seminars and reading books.  Practice.  Doing it and learning from our mistakes. 

3.  They were passionate about what they do.

If you can't be the best, you can at least have deep interest and knowledge and passion.  So many average employees just do their job.  It isn't enough in this competitive job market to just do your job.  Companies don't hand out paychecks for the fun of it.  If you aren't sure what your passion is or worse, you don't think you have one, stop and figure it out.  You do have a passion, you just can't label it yet.

4.  They applied and were the perfect match.

Yes, it can still happen.  You can apply to a job posting and you can get called for an interview because your resume is the perfect match for a job.  I list this last, because the odds of this happening are slim.  Hey, you never know, you have to buy a ticket to win the lottery.  (I'm not endorsing the purchase of lottery tickets, in case you're wondering).  A warning here, however, how discerning was the employer in screening and interviewing the candidates?  What is their turnover?  If it seemed to easy to land the job, there could be a reason behind that.

When I first started this blog, I developed a 6 step process to help summarize the steps to successful job search.  One of the steps I believe is critical is conducting a SWOT analysis.  SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.  Recently, the use of this analysis has been written about a lot. On CareerRocketeer, there was a very good explanation if you want to try it yourself.

 I think it is because people are really struggling with job search and the length of time it is taking to find a job.  Assessing your search strategy and implementation each step of the way is very helpful.

Plan A, Get a Job...

If you have been in search mode for awhile, you are probably sick and tired of it by now.  Money is tight and the end of unemployment is looming.  You just need a job!

Step one is to "just get a job", however, that isn't as easy as it sounds.  You may be presenting yourself as overqualified or desperate in the eyes of many employers.  If you are applying for jobs you are overqualified for, make sure you adjust your resume.  Sure, some may call this "dummying it down", the reality is, you are tailoring it for the position.  Adjusting might include:

• Eliminating or decreasing the "leadership" functions in your last position. 
• Demonstrate use of the specific skills the immediate job requires, don't imply or force the employer to read between the lines.
• If you honestly haven't used the required skills in awhile, consider using a combo-functional/hybrid resume.

Remember, networking is the best way to hear about all jobs as well as overcome any obstacles that might be glaring on the resume.

Even before you start the search, you will want to make sure there is at least a little interest in the jobs.  You will find more satisfaction and be less frustrated if you can use skills that you are good at and enjoy using.  This is why self assessment is so important.  To many, it seems like a waste of time, especially if the need for income is dire.  Relax, and dive into self exploration.  It is well worth the time and we all need a little reinvention right now.

When I was 10, I wanted to be an Archaeologist.  Really.  There was a barn behind our house and one day, I started digging back there.  Why?  Why does a 10 year old do anything... Each day I dug, I would find something new.  I found old bottles, high button shoes, rusty tin cans, an old light bulb (which hangs on our Christmas tree), a thimble case, and all kinds of treasures and junk.  I began to learn about old bottles and how to tell their age by the how far up the bottle the seam ran.  I had books on the subject which I read and I displayed my bottles at the town's historical society.  It was a passion.  I wanted to learn more and more about the items I was finding.  10 year old's don't often do research, but I wanted to. 

Finding a passion that will keep engaged and interested is not as hard as it sounds.  The more difficult part is finding a way to make a living using your passion. 

What could I do today if this was still my passion?  I could work in an Antiques Store.  I could work at an Historical Society.  Those 2 options alone will probably produce at least 40 target companies I could now begin to pursue.  I would first start talking to friends and neighbors to cultivate contacts.  Next, I would get in my car and visit all the target companies.  Building relationships at each stop.  Scoping out their businesses and making early decisions.  I would write employment proposals to all my target companies explaining why they needed me on their team.  I would relentlessly followup by phone with each owner and ask for a face to face meeting to discuss my proposal (bracing for some higher level of rejection). Someone out of those 40 organizations certainly needed someone with my passion and determination on their team. 

Oh, but I am not done yet.I will research local and national associations related to history and antiques.  I am going to attend meetings related to history.  Oh, I am still not done.  I'm going to go on LinkedIn and scour the search function for key words related to antiques and history.  I am going to look up people on Facebook. I'll post interesting ,research-based notes on my FB page.  I am also going to write some articles and submit them to magazines and on-line forums related to the topic.  Still working the social media route, I am going to Twitter to see who's tweeting about antiques and history in the area (Twellow is probably where I would start).

Out of all of this, something might happen.  There are no guarantees in life.  Having fun and feeling good about what you are doing is more than half the battle.

What Do They Call This at Your Company?

So many job seekers get caught up using the "official" job title their last employer gave them.  In doing that, the job seeker either has presented themselves as something un-needed, or they confuse the people they are talking to.

Marketing yourself is critical to the success of your job search campaign.  Therefore, understanding what your function is in different companies has to be discovered and understood.

In case you haven't noticed, companies have been forced to redesign themselves given the recent changes in the economic climate.  Companies have laid off thousands of people who's roles were non-essential to the business.  What happens when these companies find themselves on sturdier ground?  They will want to hire.  The hiring they do will not be direct replacement of those they let go. These companies probably have decided to operate leaner and meaner, which means they will be looking to hire people who can perform multiple functions and wear multiple hats.

So what that means is that your old job doesn't exist any longer.  It has been combined with other functions.  You've seen the job postings that ask for everything, including the ability to fix the kitchen sink.  Someone who is multi-functional offers greater hiring value to the company.  This doesn't mean you have to have everything the companies are looking for, it does, however, mean that you need to understand what their problems are so you can pitch solutions they will see as valuable.

No two companies have the same set of challenges.  Doing your research of target companies allows you to understand their issues and challenges and create the mix of solutions they are seeking.

This research can be started on-line, however, there is no magic database that lists the information you are seeking.  Only through networking can you find the answers. 

You will also need to know if your function exists in other companies and organizations.  You can ask "What do they call this set of functions at your company?"  What you will uncover is that many of your functions exist outside of your past industry.  Pursuing jobs in other industries allows you to cast a wider net.  Casting a wider net can increase your chances of landing a job faster. 

You may find that without the industry experience, it can be difficult to cross into new areas.  What can you do to gain that industry experience?  Volunteer?  Join a professional organization?  You may decide that there are some barriers that make it too difficult right now to overcome. This is good to know.  Now you can move on to other options. 

This process is helpful because it allows you to grow and expand your flexibility and knowledge.  No one can do this for you.  It is kind of like, trial and error.  You'll learn by knowing what you don't have.  This vital gap analysis can lead you to make new decisions regarding your future.

The Little "Job Seeker" That Could

One of the most commonly asked questions from job seekers today is "How do I stay motivated?" And it is no wonder, the majority of mid level career job seekers have been at it for months. They've faced rejection and indifference.  Some are blaming the bad economy and age discrimination as the causes of their prolonged job search.

At some point, they need to look inside.  What are they responsible for, what can they do to keep themselves on track. 

Happiness cannot come from without. It must come from within. It is not what we see and touch or that which others do for us which makes us happy; it is that which we think and feel and do, first for the other fellow and then for ourselves.
-- Helen Keller

"I think I can, I think I can" is the motto of the little engine.  He has a goal and a strong motivation and mission to get those toys to the children who so desperately need them.  Quitting is not an option.  He can't just leave the toys on the side of a mountain.

As a job seeker, starting with your mission, goal, most desperate desire, is one of the keys to staying motivated. However, let's face it, you lack survivability skills. You have never had to go through this before.  You are ill-equipped to compete in this game.  You probably don't remember what it was like to live pay check to pay check.  Before you start with your mission and goal, what is your most desperate desire?   

To keep food on the table, to keep a roof over your head, you need some money coming in. That should be motivation enough, according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Yet, that might require that you take some pretty undesirable actions.  You might have to take a job below you, really below you. And perhaps you'll need to work more than one. There is no shortage of service sector jobs right now.  And if you were to get creative or entrepreneurial, is there a service you could provide that would generate income... you earned? 

I hear unemployment recipients tell me that they can't afford to take a job because it pays less than unemployment.  Hmmm, work, self esteem, feeling valued, or, continue to collect unemployment?  Are we a lazy society?  Do we feel entitled to unemployment?  Maybe.  Yet when you look at the long term repercussions of collecting unemployment you see a lot of depression, lack of self confidence, anger, frustration, i.e., lack of motivation.

In honor of Labor Day, let's start laboring...really working, roll up your sleeves- get dirty and sweaty. 

Dream Big

With summer almost over, there is another opportunity to set some goals for the upcoming school year. 

I found a post, Big Dream Guidance System, about chopping your big dreams into smaller pieces and I thought it was a great way to look at the "problem". 

Curt Rosengren writes:

 "One way to shift how you think about those big dreams is to see them as a way to define the direction and scope of your efforts. Think of them as a guidance system, rather than goals that must be achieved."

According to Rosengren, the big dream provides the primary focus and scope for future opportunities to pursue.  This then leads the way to sub-dreams that become more "doable" goals or targets. Or as he initially framed it as- guidance. 

If your big dream is to produce a comedy show that will be watched and receive rave reviews by both critics and viewers, what is the focus of this dream?  (Hint, the more detailed you are in visualizing and documenting your dream, the better this exercise will be)  The focus could be that you are looking for an outlet for your humor or that your desire is to make people laugh.

The sub-dream asks you to look at what you do to make the bigger dream happen. To produce a comedy show, you have to write humor or document humor.  How can this be done?  Start a blog, use Facebook and share with your friends, etc.  This sub dream could be to become a writer for a comedian.  It could be the sub-dream is to submit a show idea to air on cable.  It could be that the dream is to perform improv. 

Actually, asking what parts of you big dream are most important to you will generate stronger sub dreams. 

I've said this before, "if money were no object, what would you do?"

Dreaming big allows you to look at the smaller components and find sub dreams!  Thanks Curt for the wonderful post and inspiration.

Transfer Your Skills

Frustrated that there aren't more jobs out there for you?  Are you not sure you want to do the same job anymore?  Well, perhaps it is time to look at your transferable skills.  Let me add beyond transferable skills, you've performed transferable functions. Functions within you last jobs will transfer to many other jobs if you look at what skills the functions required.

There are many ways to assess your transferrables.  None are easy.  Assessment usually requires digging below the surface.  You could do pen and paper assessments or online assessments.  Dig deep.  At the core, there are things you enjoy doing more than others. Enjoying something will most likely make it a better choice.  Find the root of your motivation.

Because I am a no-nonsense kind 'o gal, my recommendation is to use the O-Net assessment.  It isn't very long and it is a good starting place.  Oh, and it is free.

Use "Skills Search" to start your exploration.  This will be a high level overview of skills.  I would recommend you only select those you truly enjoy right now.  You could go back and enter all skills you can perform next if you choose.

Here is what the skills listing looks like:

Next, you will be provided with a listing of occupations that require the use of these skills.  You will most likely see some that are similar to what you have done or been doing. 

If you click on any of these occupations you will see job responsibilities as well as other requirements of the job. Read carefully.  There are clues in here. 

You will also see at the very bottom a listing of similar occupations.  You can learn more about those occupations by clicking on the title. 

I hope this is somewhat helpful.  The more you use this tool, the more user-friendly it becomes.

I have No Idea What I'm Doing

There's a saying, "Be careful what you wish for...".  Have you ever found that what you wished for came true and it wasn't quite what you had in mind?  Perhaps it is that "dream job" you landed or maybe it is the great assignment or maybe your side business is taking off.

Sometimes we are caught off guard by the our successes.  Perhaps there's a great learning opportunity in this.  For those who are planners or analytical, this change can open up a pandora's box of unexpected situations which can result in feeling overwhelmed.  For those that regularly go with the flow, it isn't so much of a big deal.  However, they will have their own set of challenges.

One of the things I think is OK to admit, to yourself, is that you have no idea what you are doing. This is not to be an excuse or denial of accountability.  When you do this, it might give you permission to make mistakes.  It might give you permission to ask for advice.  It might give you permission to actually learn something new.  I have been confessing this a lot lately and each time I do, I've been able to better evaluate what I've learned. 

I've met so many people who have gone 6, 8, 10 months supposedly "looking for work" on their own, only to realize, they had no idea what they were doing.  Why did it take so long to come to this realization?  My hunch, money became an issue.  PAIN.  We respond/react to it. 

All this means is that there are vast opportunities to learn and grow.  None of the great leaders have been able to do it on their own. 

Ask for advice and guidance from those who do know what they are doing.  Remember, however, that we are unique and that advice is not absolute.

25 Signs That You Need Serious Help with Your Search

Perhaps it takes an innocent by-stander or someone with outside perspective to see what might possibly be the problem with your job search.  Here's a checklist of signs that your search needs help:

1. You've been attending a networking group for over a month and you still don't know the names of people.
2. You have had more than 10 first interviews and zero second interviews.
3. When people offer suggestions, you tell them why they won't work for you.
4. You don't have a LinkedIn account.
5. You believe and state out loud the reason you aren't getting a job is because you are too old or too inexperienced.
6. Your father tells you that the Hess Mart is hiring.
7. When people ask what you are looking for you say "A JOB".
8. Your resume has been sent to over 20 job postings and no one has called you.
9. It has been recommended that you change your elevator pitch, but you don't.
10. You believe that the job market is the reason you can't find a job.
11. You've said more than once, there aren't any good paying jobs.
12. You keep applying for jobs at the same company and aren't getting interviews.
13. You believe that recruiters are looking for jobs for you.
14. You've been told your salary requirements are too high more than once.
15. 20 hours a week is all you can spend looking for a job.
16. You've got a collection of business cards but can't remember where you met the people.
17. You've been given a contact name and don't follow up immediately.
18. You believe you are entitled to collect unemployment for as long as the benefits last.
19. You can only name 2-3 companies you would like to work for next.
20. You believe in being perfectly honest.
21. You believe the best time to apply for jobs on-line is between 9-5.
22. You can't network because you don't know anyone.
23. You've run out of people to talk to about your search
24. You don't want anyone to know you are looking for a job.
25. You know who'll be on Oprah tomorrow afternoon.

All of these are real answers I've heard.  Some I share to make you laugh, some are meant to make you mad and some are meant to make you think.

It's All About Relationships

Life is all about relationships.  Simple enough.  Is your life fulfilling?  Are you happy?  What would make you truly happy?  No, not money.  Perhaps enough money to cover BASIC needs (basic includes food and shelter, period). So with a roof over your head and food in your belly, what would make you happy?

Can you list the things that come to mind?  If you put them on paper, you could look for commonalities/linkages.  If you knew the answers to that question today, what would you be able to do tomorrow to begin to make them happen?

In theory, this sounds great. Too easy.  In reality, it is hard and I don't think I could do it either.  I'm still trying to set some short and long term goals. 

I think about the times I've been happiest in my life and at the root of that happiness was interaction with others I love.  A vacation with family, hanging with friends, snuggling with my boys.  They all contain fleeting moments of joy.  It is that joy that I want to replicate every day.

Professionally, there are few times I have been successful on my own.  I've been part of a team, collaborated with others, received buy in from others.  We just can't do it alone. 

What all this means is that one of the most important skills is interpersonal relations.  It isn't taught in schools.  In order to improve them, we have to seek out our own training/education/self development.  Few take the time to do this.  "I am who I am".  Sound familiar?  We all have the potential to be more and better.  This will require taking the initiative to assess ourselves and seek out methods to improve. 

You can read books and articles, watch videos and subscribe to newsletters.  In the end it all boils down to putting it into action.  Find a mentor or friend who can coach you, keep you moving forward in your development.   

Why Finding A Job is Like Finding a College

You may remember first hand what it was like to try and find a college.  Or perhaps more recently you've been a part of the college search process with your children. 

I remember how terrified I was at having to make such a large decision.  I was comfortable with my previous life.  I had a pool of great friends and my family surrounding me.  Yet, there was something kind of exciting about it all too.

With those emotions running in the background, I met with my high school counselor who gave me a long list of colleges to look into.  I began researching them using the top college guides for insight on what it would be like to attend and what educational programs they offered.  Never once, well, maybe once, did I ever consider, what happens when I am finished with this degree?  What will I do next, what will it mean, what will it really prepare me to be?  I was focused on the how to make the most of my next 4 years.

After researching the long list, I pared it down to a short list of schools to visit.  I interviewed with admissions representatives and toured campuses. I even spent the night once to try and envision what life would really be like at that school.  I spoke to family friends who had attended those schools to find out their experiences too.

I fell in love with one college.  I really wanted to go there.  It was PERFECT for me (at least that's what I thought).  I applied through the early decision process, hoping that that would surely show how eager I was to attend this school. My wise counselor recommended that I apply to several others and so I did.  I developed a second choice and a "safety". 

When all was said and done, I graduated happily from my second choice.  It was one of the greatest experiences of my life.  I couldn't image having gone to a school more perfectly suited for me.

Hopefully the similarities are obvious to the job seeking process. 

A wise man said last night "good decisions flow out of good exploration". Don't forget the importance of exploring!

Why Isn't My Job Search Working?

I am always a bit surprised (perhaps pleasantly) when people call and want my advice on their job search.  However, my advice generally isn't all that unique, special, insightful, innovative or out of the ordinary.  The advice I give is based on what they tell me they aren't doing.

Are you volunteering in an organization using the skills that you would use in your job?  Or in an organization related to the work you are looking for?

Do you have a long list (50+) of companies that you could potentially work for (not necessarily companies you have applied to or who are hiring)?

How are you following up with those with whom you have had networking meetings?

Why does the employer think you are interested or not interested in the job?

There are probably other questions I ask too, some more basic than these and others more specific.  I guess it sometimes takes someone outside of a situation to be able to offer insight.  Where can you go to get this "advice" without paying?  Create a stronghold of people you respect and ask for their guidance and help. 

It is common for job seekers to believe they are the only one with a particular set of questions or concerns or obstacles. The truth is that there are themes that run through most people's job search issues.

Being proactive
Staying motivated and positive
Trying something different when the search stalls
Taking ownership of the search

These sound so generic and cliche.  Sorry.  This post from Career Rocketeer has actionable suggestions.

How to Spot an "A" Player

Pierre loves his job. I could tell from the minute I saw him.  He walked with a lightness in his step and his head held high (not too high). He worked the room by engaging people in light, sometimes humorous conversation.  He was comfortable doing that you could tell.  Pierre followed up on the service being provided and went far beyond what he needed to to ensure the end result surpassed satisfactory.

What do you think Pierre does?  He is the owner of Simply Crepes. 

First of all, you know it takes a special person and incredible dedication to start their own business, not to mention a restaurant.  He is that person. Everything he and his team did was to ensure a pleasurable customer experience and (perhaps more importantly) to develop relationships and connections that would nurture future business.

When you partner his energy and passion with his knack for developing relationships, you can see why he's successful.  It isn't phony, he really loves what he does and he is so proud (not boastful) of his restaurant.

Pierre did more than his job.  He didn't sit in a corner or back office tallying numbers or watching his team.  He got in the game.  Pierre pulled up a chair and asked questions to get to know us.  He gently explained why his restaurant was different (as if we couldn't tell already).  He knew us by name by the end of the evening and I walked out feeling like we'd met a new friend.

The lessons here are not only for business owners, but for everyone holding a job.  Re-read the first paragraph and remember that you can exude those qualities too.  No matter your job.  These transfer to every job.   Attitude, interpersonal communication skills, customer satisfaction (internal or external).

Do you delight your co-workers or fellow job seekers?  Do you create memorable experiences people will remember?  Do new acquaintances see you as their new "best friend"?

Go above and beyond where ever you can to make a lasting impression.

What's Your Value Proposition?

For those who have been in the world of sales and marketing, value proposition is fairly common.  It means in short, what will I get if I invest in this product or service? or What's in it for me (WIIFM)!

As you know, you are now in a position of selling your own services.  So, what's your value proposition?

You will have to start by answering these 3 questions.  They are not easy to answer, but worth investing effort in trying.

1) Exactly how will your employer benefit financially from hiring you?

This means what problems have you solved, what success have you had, what processes or procedures have you developed or streamlined? You've had to develop accomplishment stories, so look for re-occurring patterns here.

2)  What special experience or credentials do you bring to the table?

Are you a Six Sigma Black Belt? Have you mastered some cutting edge technology? Think about the experiences that are unique to you that a future employer would be impressed by.

3)  What additional talents and expertise do you have?

Have you held a role in a professional organization?  Do you have a related side interest you practice? 

If you were to put these 3 answers together, it may sound like:

"I have a passion for developing new and improved products which have added millions of dollars to the profits of manufacturing companies.

I have over 10 years of experience in operations and management.

I bring extensive experience in implementing "next" practices within manufacturing environments to continuously improve the quality and breadth of products.  I am known as a Lean manufacturing "go to" person and advise others in creative solutions." 

Out of this, can you create a tag-line?  A short snippet that will capture the attention of a listener and ideally be remembered? It is probably part of your elevator pitch too.

I am the lean "go to gal" providing new and improved products worth millions in profits for past companies.

Shorter and sweeter "tag line" for the resume and marketing plan

"Delivering new and improved products utilizing lean and "next practices" increasing profits of over $2.5 million"

Here are a couple of other tag lines to mirror:

Quality focused operations leader known for analytical problem solving and building relationships to successfully create profit-driven performance

International Operations Manager in a manufacturing environment with significant responsibility for identifying business strengths and weaknesses

Contributing significant impact to profitability of products through foresight and planning of operating standards and procedures

 

The Mind Games of Job Search

What job will make me most happy?  I had an interview, why aren't they calling me back like they said they would?  I submitted my application, did they get it?  What if I take this contract job, will I miss out on a better opportunity?  I don't want to take a job making less than I used to make, I'll never re-gain my salary, will I? 

Whether it is the mind games others are playing with us or the mind games we play with ourselves, these can be the most challenging part of job search. There is so much uncertainty.  Not just about the future, but also about the process.  It is new to so many of us.  These are unchartered waters we've never had to navigate before.

Are the things that frustrate and worry you within your control?  If you say you are worried about finding your next job, yes, you have accountability for this one.  If you are worried that there aren't any jobs out there, now, that, is not within your control.  If you are frustrated by people who don't do what they say they'll do, welcome to the world.  It doesn't just happen in job search, does it?  Our feelings carry over into our words and actions.  Cease and desist all negative self talk and emotions, or please try.

Do you feel like you are sometimes stuck in a rut? Unable to make decisions or move forward with ideas, or follow-up on suggestions? What is really going on?  What are you really afraid of?  What is the worst that could happen? 

Our life is not a straight road.  It may not go the way we planned.  There is no "right" answer.  There is a "right for now" answer. 

Think about what is holding you back or getting in your way.  Write these things down if you can.  Share them with a trusted friend.  

In speaking with a super talented counselor last night, he mentioned Career Anchors.  According to Dr. Schein, there are 8:

• Technical/Functional Competence

• General Management Competence

• Autonomy/Independence

• Security/Stability

• Entrepreneurial Creativity

• Service/Dedication to a Cause

• Pure Challenge

• Lifestyle

It is the value we place on these that influence our career decisions and happiness.  For more reading, on the topic of these, see this site.  Dr. Schein Career Anchors is available for a fee online.  He has also authored a book on Career Anchors.  It is just another way of understanding ourselves and what motivates us so we can move towards making the next decision.

What Will You Do When You "Retire"?

If you are like most baby boomers, you are looking forward to your well deserved retirement. It is the goal/dream you've literally been working towards your whole life.  "Ah, the day I don't have to work for a living, I'll be doing ... _________________" fill in the blank.  What will you be doing when you don't have to report to your job any longer?

Will you be happy playing golf 24/7, weeding the garden or watching the grand kids? So what will you do with all your free time?  Sure, you can volunteer a bit.  Will that fulfill your dreams?  Many retirees struggle with how to feel fulfilled after they've retired. This feeling of boredom doesn't happen right away of course, it may take months.  Then the itching to do something worth-while begins. 

Doesn't it make sense to start planning today what you'll be doing?  Perhaps you want to do some consulting work.  You'll need to start building that business before you retire because you'll need work contacts to help spread the word.  Starting a business takes time and money, you'll have a head start if you begin the process before you retire.

The other thing to consider is if you really will be content living on a fixed income for the rest of your life (perhaps 30 years).  If that doesn't scare you, it should.  Most people probably won't receive lifetime health insurance benefits.  Those can be costly to pick up on your own.  Will you have enough to pay for them?

What about your life-style. Will you be able to live the life you are accustomed to?  What sacrifices will you have to make?  If you don't want to initially make those trade-offs, what could you do to gain some income?  What talent or expertise do you offer that would be of value to others? (ie. what would someone pay you to do?) This question should sound familiar if you've ever be unemployed.

It is never too early to create an awareness of your expertise/talents.  Start today while those talents are fresh and alive.  Build your brand so you can rely on it in the future. 

I read a lot of blogs and here is some more great advice about planning for your next phase of life (we won't call it retirement, because that concept probably won't exist in the future).

Where to Find Retirement Jobs

Retirement's For Old People

Do Mature Workers Need Career Plans? 

Your Memoir, in Six Words

Harvard Business Review's John Baldoni wrote about a special project- a 6 word sentence to describe your accomplishments.  It isn't new, just revisited.  How do you want to be remembered?  Baldoni suggests asking yourself these three questions to self analyze:

What gets me up in the morning?

How can I help?

What is my influence?

To condense the answers into six words sounds impossible, is it?

Abraham Lincoln's would be:  "He preserved the Union and freed the slaves" according to the article (technically more than 6 words, but you get the idea).

What is your's?

FYI:  I spent last week on my annual vacation to rural Vermont. Every year, this vacation teaches me something about relationships and human kind.  By observing the stress-free activities of 130 people of multiple generations, I learned that we are creatures who are meant to communicate and interact with one another and when you take away the un-levelers (technology, personal items of status, alcohol, drugs), it creates a thick and lasting bond. In this almost utopian environment, old play with young with ease, family units are strengthened and renewed,  introverts and extroverts mingle equally well, communication is typically straight forward and uncomplicated.  Wah widdi my friends, until next year.

Changing Jobs, Changing Careers, Changing Industries

Change is something we tend to avoid like the plague (or perhaps more timely, Swine Flu).  Yet job seekers right now will have to investigate something different. 

The job you had before doesn't exist any longer.  There were unique sets of circumstances that led to the evolution of your last job and in many cases the employer worked around your strengths and weaknesses to allow the job to suit you.  This time, you will want to position your skills into a job defined by the employer. 

So my advice, stop looking for what you used to do and focus on what you want to do.  There are millions of opportunities out there, really.  The likelihood of your finding the right one for you or even just a job, requires that you fit your skills into their round hole.  If you focus on the skills you most like using, you will be far more successful in finding someone who can use them.  Think outside your previous job title, career and industry.

Thinking outside the box can be difficult.  You will most likely need some help.  Enlist the advice of those you trust. There was a great posting on Life at work about change.  In it was a listing of examples of changes her clients had made.  Here is the list:

From mechanical engineeer to attorney to manager at a start-up specialty beverage company

From college athletic coach to self-employed personal trainer

From journalist to law school student

From full-time instructional designer to contract instructional designer

From laid off administrative employee to self employed retailer

From technical writer to TV production

From hi-tech manager to at-home parent

From corporate training manager to self-employed consultant and professional speaker

From working for corporations to working in two-person partnerships in law, management consultancy and architecture

From full-time high school teacher to part-time curriculum designer

From biotech marketing to self-employed chef-for-hire

From community college dean to e-learning consultant and retiree

How did they make these transitions?  Each story is most likely different, however, they all started the same way, Once upon a time... no, no, no. They assessed their core strengths.  They focused on what they really enjoyed doing and from that discovery became energized and passionate about making the change.

What was your transition and how did you get there?

Do You Make Things Happen?

I don't think anyone could disagree that times are tough.  It can be our personal traits that change how we conquer the issues.

In a post from Fast Company, Six Traits that Separate the Achievers from the Wannabes.  Here they are (original source Echoing Green):

1. Core identity formation and alignment. "These folks," she said, "have reached a level of authenticity in life. They have found purpose and passion. They know what they're on earth to do. They're in the Social Change 'zone.' They have head/heart alignment."
2. Focused and ability to execute with alacrity. "It's not enough to have an idea. You must be able to prove your model is having an impact and build on it."
3. Solutions oriented.
4. Asset based thinking. "Most of us deficit based thinkers," Dorsey said. "But instead of seeing the world as filled with problems, they see opportunities. They see the glass as half full, and execute against all odds."
5. Resource magnet. They're able to draw money, garner human capital, and attract media attention.
6. Deep and unshakable commitment to a cause.

Echoing Green calls these "social entrepreneurship intelligence".  

It doesn't matter if you are in accounting, nursing or administrative support.  These are the new norms employers will be looking for within every level of the organization. 

With the majority of job growth happening in small to medium sized companies, these companies need multi-talented contributors. 

Be the one with a "can do" attitude and demonstrate your passion!

What is Your Threshold for Change?

We have a fixed capacity for change.  Change, whether good or bad (wanted our unwanted) adds up like water in a glass.  Each person can only handle a certain level, because the glass can only hold so much.  Once it reaches the top, it overflows and kablooie, and we flip/tilt/explode/blow.

This why resiliency is important.  The more resilient, the higher the threshold for change or the taller the glass of water. 

I attended a presentation, Change for Change Agents, in which Karen Barrow discussed the complexities of implementing change within an organization.  Karen has significant experience in OD (organization development) and corporate change consulting.

What I walked away from her presentation with was that more than ever before we are our own business.  The term Me Inc has been around awhile.  Everytime a reference was made to the company or organization, I replaced it with Me Inc.  It all worked.

Me Inc needs to find a way to make change acceptable. This means Me Inc needs a plan.  Here are the things that need to be considered by Me Inc's plan.

Perceptions of the change

Because we avoid abiguity, we need to provide ways of implementing direct and indirect control of the uncertainty.

Motivation toward change

Resistance is a multi-step process.  Each step leads closer to acceptance of change and when that happens, there is motivation.

Commitment to change

This too, is a process.  Preparation, acceptance and committment.

If you want to understand more about organization change, Managing at the Speed of Change, by Darryl Connor is an good source of information and an easy read.

If you want to read more about Me, Inc concepts, you'll want to read Tom Peters early article on the Brand called You.

We Are All Changing Careers

Whether we like it or not, everyone will be changing careers.  The world of work is changing so rapidly and the needs of businesses are quite different from what they used to be. The job you used to do doesn't exist any longer (well, it might, but a different company will define it differently).

It doesn't matter if you are unemployed, employed, under-employed, just graduated, just retired...every one faces the same challenge-defining what you want to do next. 

This takes a lot of research, informational meetings and sometimes time.  In order to make the best use of your time, sit down and assess what you liked doing best in you life. 

• When you were happiest, what were you doing.  And why were you happy? 

• When you were successful, what were you doing.  And how would you define successful?

This is only the tip of the iceberg of self assessment.  Learn about what company culture feels best for you, what type of leadership you like...the list goes on and on.  If you haven't yet sat down with a copy of "What Color Is Your Parachute" you may want to.  There are tons of exercises to get you to the point of clarity or closer to it.

Now begin to research occupations that use those skills and abilities you most enjoyed using.  If that doesn't work, then try searching for companies that would be a fit with what you are looking for culturally.  You could also research the top 100 companies and the top 100 in your city/area. 

You can even use LinkedIn to do research!

Now begin talking.  Ask people you know to provide advice, suggestions, feedback, names that will take you one step closer to truly knowing some of the answers.

When truly changing industries or occupations, you will want to be able to describe all the similar skills you have.  You'll need to bridge the gap so that the employer will see the relationship between what they are looking for and what you can do.  How well you bridge this gap will determine your success.  That is why talking to people is so important.  It will help you understand how to present your skills convincingly.  Employers do not like to hear "...but I am willing to learn".  It frightens them.

Enter into the search fairly certain how your skills are a match for the type of work you are looking in.  This will help with your confidence level too.

Here are some other posts on Changing Careers you might find helpful:

Life at Work

Glass Hammer

Keppie Careers

Envision the Future

I find myself running into brick walls a lot while trying to help job seekers.  Not necessarily my brick walls, but theirs-  "I can't", "it doesn't work", "it won't work", "that's not me", "it's not fair".

But these become my brick walls too.  My role as a sherpa is to get you to believe you can, so that you will take the actions necessary to break through these walls. 

I'm pretty no-nonsense and my family has declared me "un-fun".  To prove them all wrong and change up my image a bit, I've surrounded myself with people who are fun and full of non-sense (they may or may not know who they are).

So to all you job seekers out there, what can you do that is uncharacteristic?  More fun?

Years ago I attended a wonderful and too brief keynote by Yvonne Conte.  If you've ever seen her, you know how fun she is! 

One of the exercises she asked us to do was to describe our dream job.  Not just what we would be doing, but all the details of the work environment.  So, here are some questions you can answer:

• What is the job title
• Who are your customers
• What industry or focus does your company have
• What does a typical day involve
• How far do you have to travel to get to your job
• What does your workspace look like
• What hours do you work
• Who are your co-workers
• What is your boss like (what's their background and management philosophy and how do they recognize your successes)
• What is your favorite part of your new job
• When your workday is over, how do you feel

This is about creating a vision of what you are striving for.  Once you can picture it, it is much more likely to come to fruition, right?!

You could even get really goofy and begin cutting out pictures and articles that truly help you visualize your new role.  

Heck, you've got nothing to lose in trying this.  It might seem silly, but it might just work!

Re-tooling Might Mean Schooling

When was the last time you sat in a classroom?  That long?  Perhaps it's time to upgrade your skills. 

The first step is to determine which skills are in-demand or that you might be lacking.  Go to indeed.com and enter your desired job title, also remove the location search criteria because you will want to read a lot of job postings for this type of job.  As you review the postings, what are the skills and technology that appear most often.  Do you have them?  Are you confident about your abilities in those areas?  If not, you are ready for the next step. 

The second step is to research which schools or education providers in your area offer classes/courses on these lacking skills.  Start by looking at the community colleges and expand from there.  On-line training providers might be an option, but look at them later and I'll explain why.  On-line training typically won't qualify for the grant money mentioned below.

The third step is to meet with someone (face to face is best) from the school and talk about their classes/courses. Remember that their motivation is to sell you the classes, so be a little wary of the information they provide.

The fourth step is to speak with people in your occupation about the importance of these skills and try and validate some of the information the school/training provider told you about.

If all is lining up and you receive confirmation that these skills are in demand, then visit you local "one-stop".  They "are designed to provide a full range of assistance to job seekers under one roof. The centers offer training referrals, career counseling, job listings, and similar employment-related services. Customers can visit a center in person or connect to the center's information through PC". 

There are training grants (free money) for people who have determined the training they will need.  There are numerous requirements and restrictions on how the money can be spent and who will qualify, but heck, it is free! 

The grant money is a one time, use it all or lose it deal.  You will want to identify ALL the training/classes/courses that would help you in re-tooling before you meet with the one-stop staff member.

In most or all cases, you will need to register with the one stop to meet with a staff member. 

The grant money is federal money and right now, in Rochester, the amount available for someone who has been laid off from their job is as high as $7,500. 

It is worth investigating!

Staying Ahead of the Curve

 Think about the top Fortune 500 companies for a second.  Well, maybe not all of them, but the automakers, IBM, Xerox, Kodak, those guys.  They were running profitable businesses for long time.  They were utilizing lean principles, six sigma, and other quality initiatives.  They probably also were committed to implementing and sharing "best practices". 

In this rapidly changing world, what these mammoths were unable to to was implement really new ideas.  To do this would require innovation and risk taking beyond what they were capable of.  Katie Konrath wrote a post on Personal Branding Blog citing CK Pralahad's opinion on the topic of innovation.

"Unfortunately, when a company gives all their focus to “best practices”, they actually set themselves up for failure in the future. Why?  Because the very thing that makes them improve (intense internal focus) is what hurts them in the long run".

Pralahad calls the innovation "next practices". We have to be able to see the forest through the trees.  Looking ahead and outside instead of intense internal focus. Not just as a business but as individuals also. 

Continuous improvement and best practices are important. However, mixing in some innovation is also necessary. 

Manage your career as if you were an innovative business.  Strive to create excellent customer service, push the boundaries of what that means.  Be passionate about the work you do.  Manage spending and budgets like it was your own money.  CareerSuccess! has a helpful post on thinking like a business which is truly worth the read.  It talks about the nine elements of successful business:

Demonstrate passion
Provide outstanding customer service
Take caring of your people
Exceed expectations
Go the extra mile
Create systems
Look for opportunities to improve
Be frugal
Look to the future

We are all now responsible for managing our careers.  Develop the tools required to take your business to the next level!

Spice up the old elevator pitch

If you have been using the same old elevator pitch (45 second commercial) with the same old results, let's try something different. 

In the world of business, companies define the benefits to having a value proposition as:

• Create a strong differential between you and your competitors
• Increase not only the quantity but the quality of prospective leads
• Gain market share in your targeted segments
• Assist you in enhancing tools that will help you close more business
• Improve your operation efficiency

Putting a Pricetag on People an article by a company called Delta Dallas which provides human capital services explains why employers ears and eyes key into these elements:

Performance/ Productivity - Impact the bottom line
Motivation/Influence/Attitude - Impact others
New Ideas/Thinking about Solutions -Impact through creativity
Systems - Impacting structure and efficiency
Habits - Impact through consistency
Emotional Equity - Impact through commitment

Miriam Salpeter at Keppie Careers  recommends you answer these questions in your pitch:

• What do you do? What do you offer? What makes you special and unique? (Relative to the person you’re meeting.)
• What is your goal/objective? What do you WANT to do?
• What impact do you have? What results do you create?
• How do you create positive results?

Sample Value Proposition

An experienced project manager with a strong track record of meeting deadlines on high-impact projects that saved company projects $300 thousand and boosted revenue $1.2 million over a two year period earning widespread company recognition. A strong leader who has brought together colleagues of various professional disciplines to work as a team to achieve corporate goals.

Perhaps you've figured out how to add spice...it is about changing what you are saying from "who you are" to "what you do"!  Because that is what the employers initially want to hear.

What's Your Dream?

I am sure you have either seen or heard of Susan Boyle by now.  It is worth watching her again. Video of Susan Boyle

Susan's dream is to become a famous singer.  She is now 47 years old and has been singing since she was 12.  Right now we can only speculate what series of events led to her to compete in Britain's Got Talent. 

Could it be her dream was always to become a famous singer? Did she listen to the naysayers who said she couldn't, wouldn't, shouldn't?

She's unemployed. Did she reach the point of re-invention by crisis?  When we have lost things that are dear to us, sometimes we are forced to re-evaluate who we are.  Who are you?  If you were to lose everything, what would you have left?

It seems to me that Susan has always loved singing.  It has been a part of her life since she was 12.  I would love to know what motivated her to compete.  Certainly there were other opportunities in her life to sing in public.

Each one of us has incredible, inspiring talents, just like Sharon.  If we can follow our dreams, take a chance and do what we need to do to be found, ours could be the next Susan Boyle story.

Dream! Thank you Susan for the inspiration and the valuable lessons we all took away from watching you!

The Mindset of an Entrepreneur

Everyone should read Seth Godin's Guest Blog post "Don't Try to Get A Job" on What Would Dad Say. 

I believe what Seth is trying to say is that trying to start you own small business stretches the mind.  It forces you to clarify what your strengths are and provides an outlet for passion. 

These are the things that employers are looking for.  Risk takers, great problem solvers, passionate.  This is how we all want to be seen by a potential employer, not desperate and vulnerable.  So where's the harm?

Miriam Salpeter, Keppie Careers, posted a strong argument against why starting your own business isn't a solution.  She contends that not everyone is cut out to follow Seth's advice. 

Nick Carcodilos, Ask the Headhunter, provides examples of how to put Seth's advice into  action.  Nick says

"First, if you’re never gonna try to start your own business, you should nonetheless approach your next job like it’s a business."

Thanks to Seth for getting everyone thinking.  I see the challenge as most unemployed people are going to have a hard time getting to this mindset.  It is a huge paradigm shift.  However, I believe once they can embrace this new way of thinking, it will be incredibly liberating and empowering!

Getting Back to Basics

Everything happens for a reason.  Perhaps this situation we find ourselves in right now was to serve as a wake-up call.  Were our values out of whack?

Now is a really good time to re-evaluate what is important to you in your life. Seldom do we have the time or mental capacity to do this exercise, yet it is SO worth doing.  Try ranking the following professional/personal values.

Being content with my work

Having major accomplishments

Being well liked

Being creative

Serving others

Having authority over others

Inventing something new

Advancing my career

Making my own decisions

Being competitive

Having high income

Having status

Choosing my work location

Feeling needed and appreciated

Pursuing excellence

Having low work stress

Spending time with family and friends

Have time freedom

Collaborating with others

Working for the environment

Being well known

Having power

Being independent

Having job security

Taking risks

Having interests outside of work

Being self motivated

Being loyal at work

Challenging myself athletically

Being active in the community

Gaining new knowledge

Influencing others

Being part of a team

Challenging myself intellectually

But don't stop there!  Visualize what your a day in your ideal life would be like.  Start at the very beginning of the day.  Walk through hour by hour and describe what you would be doing, the activities and surroundings. 

Phew!  This should feel great.  Now, what will it take to make this happen? What do you need to be able to accomplish this?

Does it seem un-obtainable?  It can be.  Take baby-steps.  Today, what is one thing you can do to bring you closer to this goal of the ideal life?  What will happen if you don't take this step vs. what will happen if you do?

No one has asked me why I list "Village Life in America"on my favorite books section of my blog, so, I will tell you anyway.  It is a wonderful juxtoposition to the other books.  Village Life is the diary of a girl living in a small town in the 1800s.  It describes her daily activities and how historically significant events impacted her life.  It was a different world in the 1800's, but not that different.  The community supported each other like, I believe, the community will support each other today.

Know Thyself

The great philosophers said it long ago.  Know thyself.  It is so basic and so obvious, why do we fight self assessment?  Because it is difficult.

Life moves so quickly today, running around doing something, texting, emailing, cell phones, IM, chat, meetings, work, errands.  Where do you fit in self exploration?

I have a friend who goes on an annual personal retreat.  During this time, he focuses on himself.  He re-evaluates what is important in his life personally and professionally.  Out of this experience comes clarity and energy. He is able to set priorities that address what is important to him then.

We should all take a personal retreat.  It may just be a weekend couped up in the bedroom in your house, or a night each week spent alone without family interruptions. 

To make this experience worthwhile, you will want to have some good questions to ponder as well as know what the outcome of this retreat will be, goals need to be set.

Here are some questions I put in journals I gave to friends for their 40th birthdays:

• What are you most proud of accomplishing in your life?

• Who has had the greatest impact on your life and why?
• What has been your greatest learning experience?
• What is the greatest innovation you have seen in your life and why?
• What is the most memorable event?

By the way, journaling is another wonderful way of getting in touch with your self. 

Job seekers waste a lot of time going through the motions of searching and applying for jobs they are not interested in or not qualified for because they haven't taken the time to assess themselves. 

My hope is that you will take the time and truly understand what is important to you in this next phase of your life.  You deserve to be happy.

Here are some links to assessment sites.  Some are free, some cost money.  Think before you buy.

The Riley Guide

The Job Hunters Bible

Managementhelp

 

The 4 P's of Marketing

Product, Pricing, Placement, Promotion. 

Product:  What service or product do you offer that fills a need.  In true marketing, a warranty is generally included in defining this.

Pricing:  What is the market willing to bear?  This can also include non-monetary exchange, such as time or attention (think barter)

Placement:  How does the product get to the market (retail vs on-line).  What is its geographical region, industry and specific target audience?

Promotion:  Last and last for a good reason, identifying the brand, and how to advertise or promote.

In my next life, I want a Masters in Marketing.  In my mind, these 4 elements are critical to every individuals success in life, not just work/career. 

The market is saturated with talent.  In order to find the right opportunity, you have to know the answers to these questions.  It can also open up opportunities you may have never considered (but should).

You are the product...what need can you fulfill within a company/organization?  Can you come with a warranty?  
"I can redesign a website in 3 months, if it isn't done, I will continue to work on the project until it is completed at no cost". 

Risky, you bet.  Therefore, before you propose this, you need to really be a master at what you can do and know the terms of the deal.  Be firm in developing a scope of work contract before beginning such a project.

What is your value in the marketplace?  What is the going rate for the average person delivering these talents? What is the supply in the marketplace? How much is someone willing to pay for YOUR unique problem solving abilities?  I wrote about finding salary info before.

Placement means where is there a need and how will you deliver your services?  Where means understanding your industry. What are the trends, is there growth or decline?  What about geographic region? Are there pockets of opportunities elsewhere in the United States or internationally?  How would you deliver your services?  As a contractor, temp to hire? Could you work remotely? 

Once you have answered all these questions, you can build your brand and bring it to market.  Be sure of yourself.  Use this P's to promote you!  This is the point at whichthe use of social media is advantageous.  You can strategically follow folks on Twitter (almost like stalking, but not quite).  You can promote your brand to an audience using Facebook or creating a blog, or commenting on the correct blogs.  You can use LinkedIn to connect with the right people. 

I liked this  post Be Prepared- Using Social Media to Know Your Target because it explains how to really do good Market research.