A job search can feel overwhelming at times. You don't need to do it alone. Your network can help take some of the "work" out of your search.Getting ClearIt's important to let your network know that you are in a job search. They can't help you if they don't know! And, without clearly defined job targets, i.e., specific positions, industries, and companies you are seeking, it can be even harder for your network to help. When...

Do you enjoy your work? Are your Sundays spent dreading Mondays OR do you look forward to getting up each week day? Since yesterday was Labor Day, I thought this topic would be fitting.On average we spend 40 to 46 years of our life working. With work consuming a large chunk of our day and our life, why not be doing something we enjoy? For many people, little thought was put into their career choice. Some may think that work...

When exploring career options, it's important to take several factors into consideration, including your skills, interests, work values, personality, and lifestyle.Skills - You're no doubt good at a lot of things, but what are you both good at AND enjoy doing? These are referred to as your motivated skills.Interests - Are you interested in animals, helping people, the outdoors, or leading? Or maybe you're creative and enjoy...

Want to advance to the next level? Networking can help you do just that!How networking can help you….1. Be seen as an integral part of the company.2. Become well known within your industry.3. Be seen as a subject matter expert.4. Expand your network.5. Keep your network alive.If you’re serious about your career and want to move up to the next level, networking can help make that happen! Let’s say you've...

Increase your visibility up, down, and across your current organization.Networking can help you….1. Be seen as an integral part of the company.2. Become known as a subject matter expert.3. Expand your network. 4. Keep your network alive.While some may reserve networking for times when they’re in a job search, others are continually working to build and maintain their network for career insurance- to keep th...

Networking can help you…. 1. Get the word out that you are in a job search. 2. Gain advice about your job search techniques. 3. Uncover job leads in the “hidden job market.” 4. Get referrals to other individuals or organizations that you’re targeting. 5. Learn more about specific positions, fields, or industries. 6. Gather information about specific companies. 7. Expand your network. 8. Keep your current net...

Earlier this week I delivered a presentation at a Twin-Cities based job transition group. My presentation was titled, "Your Two-Minute Pitch: The Keystone of Your Job Search." It's critically important to have a well-crafted, targeted two-minute pitch, aka your elevator pitch to use during your job search. You'll use your Two-Minute Pitch, coined by the Five O'Clock Club, during networking situations and in job intervi...

Are you looking for a promotion, but not getting anywhere? Try the strategies below to help you get up the next rung on the proverbial career ladder:1. Find out what's going on and become part of it. What are the major trends affecting your industry, your organization, and your field? Join associations that relate to your field and industry to help you keep up with the changes in your company or job.2. Manage your internal...

Are you in a job search? What type of work are you seeking? The more focused your job target(s), the more effective your job search and the easier it will be for others to help you.I've worked with many clients who aren't clear on what position(s) they would like to pursue or fear they will limit themselves if they narrow their focus. Actually, the opposite happens. Clearly identifying what position or function you want, th...

Are you in a job search? What jobs are you targeting? If you say any of the following, you need to gain more clarity:1) I'm open. I'll take anything.2) I don't care what industry I work in.3) I don't want to limit myself.A lot of job seekers worry when asked, "What positions and industries are you targeting? They're afraid that if they are too specific they will limit their opportunities. Actually, the opposite happens. The...