Greetings!
Welcome to your latest issue of the Interview Expert newsletter.
Every issue explores the key elements of a successful job interview and strategic job search techniques - so you can master your skills and land the job you really want!
In this issue we continue with our last article in a three-part series about steps you can take to move forward towards a new job in 2010.
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Take Three Easy Steps Forward Towards Landing the Job You Really Want! |
Step 3: Build Lasting Connections
We cannot live for ourselves alone. Our lives are connected by a thousand invisible threads, and along these sympathetic fibers, our actions run as causes and return to us as results.
Herman Melville
Remember those people you called the last time you were looking for a job. Did you stay in touch with them after you landed? No? Well, it's time to start again. But, do it differently. Make a commitment and create a plan to stay in touch during your search and after you land your next job.
Here are six powerful steps you can take to re-establish and re-ignite your network so you build lasting connections:
- Make a solid request. If you need information or a referral from a contact, make your request so specific that it's easy for them to help you. And, always remember to ask - how you can help them - before thanking them for their time. That way, you'll stand out from others who just ask and forget to return the favor with a specific offer to give back.
- Circle back. When your contact has referred you to another person, it's important to re-connect and let them know how it went. People sometimes forget this simple business courtesy. Do it as soon as possible after the meeting or call. Let them know specifically how that connection helped you move forward with your job search. That will make them feel positive about the help they've provided you.
- Keep circling back. Ensure you keep all your contacts informed of your progress on a regular basis. It's the easiest way to remain top-of-mind so they'll remember you when they hear of opportunities opening up. And, be proactive. When you find something that may interest them, either a relevant article, press clipping or other information, send it to them with a short note.
- Stay in regular touch. When you land your new job, tell all your contacts. Thank absolutely everyone you contacted for his or her support in getting you there.
- Implement your plan. Develop a specific plan to stay in touch with everyone by contacting them regularly. As a minimum, I recommend that you call or meet each person every 6 months. You can do this easily and effortlessly by simply placing a follow-up note in your calendar for a future date, immediately after you meet or call them.
- Show your interest in them. To build a lasting connection, it's important to be more interested and focused on your contacts and their careers when you call, than talking about yourself. And, look out for opportunities to reach out and help them and their contacts whenever you can.
These six steps will help you build lasting connections so you are become well known in your industry, in your profession and a hot commodity in the job market now and into the future! Accelerate your career in 2010 by building your connections and taking all the Three Easy Steps Forward! Heather
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Questions? Comments? Topics for future newsletters?
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