It's no secret that the end of 2011 is coming to a close and many take time to reflect and look back on the year around the holidays. Looking at how far you have come can help you set your goals for the following year. Setting your goals for the upcoming year is useful but don't forget to take the time to thank those who helped you along the way in 2011. While sending out your holiday greetings, take several moments to thank those who have helped you personally or professionally during the past year.
When making out your list of people to thank, think of the following questions:
Who Really Helped Me Grow In My Professional Career During 2011?
Take a few moments to think of network contacts, people at work, or anyone else who helped you grow in your profession during the past year. Chances are, there was someone who helped you develop your skill set or helped you grow in your current position.
Who Really Helped You Grow As A Person In Your Personal Life?
I know I have a lot of people to thank in this category. A couple of friends of mine really helped me grow as a person in my personal life and I am grateful for the help they provided. Take a few moments to look back on those who have helped develop as a person. This may be someone who helped you with a personal relationship, be more comfortable with others or introduced you to a hobby.
Who Went Out Of His Or Her Way To Do Something Special?
Was there someone who included you in a special event? Was there someone who invited you to his or her wedding or let you be apart of the wedding party? Was there someone who went out of his or her way so you could participate in an event or hobby? These are some questions you can ask yourself when trying to come up with people for this category.
Showing posts with label how to network. Show all posts
Showing posts with label how to network. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Getting to Know Someone - Helpful Tips
Taking the time to build a relationship can be helpful and it must be done properly. There are instances in which having a key relationship can help and being able to build it will help later on. Being able to meet someone is the first step but taking the time to build that relationship is even more important.
Below are some tips on building a relationship with someone:
1) Take the Time to Listen- It's easy to provide someone with your own verbal autobiography during the first meeting, however, that will likely bore the other person and prohibit a relationship from developing. Take the time to listen to the other person in the conversation and inquire more. You don't need to interrogate the other person but take the time to listen and show an interest
2) Find a Common Way to Keep in Touch - Someone prefer phone calls, others prefer e-mails, some prefer texts, the list goes on. Take the time to find a way to keep in touch with the person and find the method that will work for him or her. You don't have to bombard someone with multiple e-mails, texts or calls to get a response. Find the method that works best and remember to be patient.
3) If Possible, Try and Find Common Ground - It's not always easy to find common ground with someone and in some instances, you may not have anything in common with the other person. If you can, try and find a common interest or passion. It will not only serve as a conversation starter but opportunities to build that relationship.
4) Be Respectful to the Other Person - This does sound obvious but realize that certain comments or reacting a certain way to someone's comment could be a turnoff. Be respectful to the other person's beliefs, positions, backgrounds, etc. when developing a relationship. Make sure to be open minded as well.
Below are some tips on building a relationship with someone:
1) Take the Time to Listen- It's easy to provide someone with your own verbal autobiography during the first meeting, however, that will likely bore the other person and prohibit a relationship from developing. Take the time to listen to the other person in the conversation and inquire more. You don't need to interrogate the other person but take the time to listen and show an interest
2) Find a Common Way to Keep in Touch - Someone prefer phone calls, others prefer e-mails, some prefer texts, the list goes on. Take the time to find a way to keep in touch with the person and find the method that will work for him or her. You don't have to bombard someone with multiple e-mails, texts or calls to get a response. Find the method that works best and remember to be patient.
3) If Possible, Try and Find Common Ground - It's not always easy to find common ground with someone and in some instances, you may not have anything in common with the other person. If you can, try and find a common interest or passion. It will not only serve as a conversation starter but opportunities to build that relationship.
4) Be Respectful to the Other Person - This does sound obvious but realize that certain comments or reacting a certain way to someone's comment could be a turnoff. Be respectful to the other person's beliefs, positions, backgrounds, etc. when developing a relationship. Make sure to be open minded as well.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Missing The Shots You Don't Take
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." - Wayne Gretzky
As a hockey player, Gretzky knew that not taking a shot on net wouldn't help his team score the goals it needed to win games. Gretzky found different ways to create opportunities in front of the net with this motto and is one of the many reasons he is a legend in the hockey world.
Even if you have never laced up a pair of skates or never play the game of hockey, this motto can be used in your own life.
When searching for a job, you won't make any progress if you don't take the time to send your resume out, network, or meet others. A prospective employer will never consider you for a position if you never take the time to send in your resume to him or her. A networking contact will never meet with you if you never take the opportunity to introduce yourself. Taking the opportunity that is in front of you can lead to bigger dividends later on.
On a personal level, one example where I took the opportunity in front of me occurred over a year ago when Terry Pluto, the famed Cleveland sportswriter, was writing a book about the Cleveland Browns. I have been a Browns fan my entire life and saw Pluto was interested in having fans submit stories to possibly be used in the book.
At this point, I could have taken that attitude that the chances of my story getting used were too small and why bother putting the time into it. Instead, I figured that taking the small chance I had was better then not taking the shot at all. After taking several minutes to write what I wanted, I submitted in the story.
Months later, I received an e-mail from Pluto informing me my story was used. The chances of him using it originally may have been small, however, taking that shot paid off in the end.
When you have an opportunity in front of you, realize that the shot you don't take will not get you the result you want in the end.
As a hockey player, Gretzky knew that not taking a shot on net wouldn't help his team score the goals it needed to win games. Gretzky found different ways to create opportunities in front of the net with this motto and is one of the many reasons he is a legend in the hockey world.
Even if you have never laced up a pair of skates or never play the game of hockey, this motto can be used in your own life.
When searching for a job, you won't make any progress if you don't take the time to send your resume out, network, or meet others. A prospective employer will never consider you for a position if you never take the time to send in your resume to him or her. A networking contact will never meet with you if you never take the opportunity to introduce yourself. Taking the opportunity that is in front of you can lead to bigger dividends later on.
On a personal level, one example where I took the opportunity in front of me occurred over a year ago when Terry Pluto, the famed Cleveland sportswriter, was writing a book about the Cleveland Browns. I have been a Browns fan my entire life and saw Pluto was interested in having fans submit stories to possibly be used in the book.
At this point, I could have taken that attitude that the chances of my story getting used were too small and why bother putting the time into it. Instead, I figured that taking the small chance I had was better then not taking the shot at all. After taking several minutes to write what I wanted, I submitted in the story.
Months later, I received an e-mail from Pluto informing me my story was used. The chances of him using it originally may have been small, however, taking that shot paid off in the end.
When you have an opportunity in front of you, realize that the shot you don't take will not get you the result you want in the end.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
The Importance of Saying Hello and Being Friendly
How many times have you been at a restaurant where the person serving you did not show much interest in you? Have you been at restaurants where the server didn't respond to you trying to make small talk or really say much?
Chances are, we have all been in a situation where the person serving us at a restaurant, coffee bar or other establishment did not take the time to make small talk or seem interested in getting to know you. After this, you may have felt as if the person did not care or wanted to be at his or her job that day.
In certain situations, taking the time to make small talk with the people you come in contact can not only make someone's day but might make that person more responsive to you later on. Taking a few minutes to be friendly and asking how the other person's day is going can make a difference.
For example, as a photographer for Solon High School Football, I will often try and make small talk with the people who work the gates at the games, work the sidelines or talk to the police officers there. I don't have to say hello to these people, however, it makes a difference when someone is taking a couple of minutes to say "Hey, how are you doing?" or "How is your day going?" Taking a few moments to say hello to these people makes me a friendlier face and can make people more responsive and receptive to you later on.
When you are out and about at places you frequent often whether it is bars, restaurants or coffee shops, take a few minutes to say hello to the people serving you and ask about his or her day. You don't have to play a game of "20 Questions" but take some time to ask how the day is going, how long he or she has been there, or if a lot of people have come through. Take the time to listen to the answers and try and get a small conversation going. It might sound hard but if you take the time and listen and ask, you shouldn't have a problem getting something going.
In most every day situations, you don't have to say hello to others and be friendly but taking the time to do so can help you stand out from the rest for positive reasons.
Chances are, we have all been in a situation where the person serving us at a restaurant, coffee bar or other establishment did not take the time to make small talk or seem interested in getting to know you. After this, you may have felt as if the person did not care or wanted to be at his or her job that day.
In certain situations, taking the time to make small talk with the people you come in contact can not only make someone's day but might make that person more responsive to you later on. Taking a few minutes to be friendly and asking how the other person's day is going can make a difference.
For example, as a photographer for Solon High School Football, I will often try and make small talk with the people who work the gates at the games, work the sidelines or talk to the police officers there. I don't have to say hello to these people, however, it makes a difference when someone is taking a couple of minutes to say "Hey, how are you doing?" or "How is your day going?" Taking a few moments to say hello to these people makes me a friendlier face and can make people more responsive and receptive to you later on.
When you are out and about at places you frequent often whether it is bars, restaurants or coffee shops, take a few minutes to say hello to the people serving you and ask about his or her day. You don't have to play a game of "20 Questions" but take some time to ask how the day is going, how long he or she has been there, or if a lot of people have come through. Take the time to listen to the answers and try and get a small conversation going. It might sound hard but if you take the time and listen and ask, you shouldn't have a problem getting something going.
In most every day situations, you don't have to say hello to others and be friendly but taking the time to do so can help you stand out from the rest for positive reasons.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
The Importance of Staying In Touch
Throughout your college and professional career, staying in touch with those who have helped you along the way is a must. Sometimes it is difficult to stay in touch with everyone but taking a few moments to drop a quick hello can go a long way.
To stay in touch, you don't necessarily have to have a person's address or go visit face-to-face. Simple ways such as thank you notes, short emails, and other simple reminders can help you stay in touch with those who have helped you along the way.
Below are some quick and easy ways to stay in touch:
1) E-Mail - taking a few moments to send a quick e-mail to check in is a great way to keep in touch. Try not to keep the e-mails really long (just a couple of quick sentences) and take time at the end to ask how the other person is doing.
2) Saying Congrats- if a contact of yours has been rewarded publicly, has been acknowledged for an achievement or has gotten a promotion, taking a few moments to say congrats via e-mail or regular card can help. It shows you care enough to send a person a note recognizing an achievement and will keep you fresh in that person's mind.
3) Simple Reminders- taking time to get to know network contacts as people is important and if you come across a keepsake or article that would be of interest, take a few moments to send it to that person. This is a great way to catch someone's interest and will show you remembered the other person's interests
To stay in touch, you don't necessarily have to have a person's address or go visit face-to-face. Simple ways such as thank you notes, short emails, and other simple reminders can help you stay in touch with those who have helped you along the way.
Below are some quick and easy ways to stay in touch:
1) E-Mail - taking a few moments to send a quick e-mail to check in is a great way to keep in touch. Try not to keep the e-mails really long (just a couple of quick sentences) and take time at the end to ask how the other person is doing.
2) Saying Congrats- if a contact of yours has been rewarded publicly, has been acknowledged for an achievement or has gotten a promotion, taking a few moments to say congrats via e-mail or regular card can help. It shows you care enough to send a person a note recognizing an achievement and will keep you fresh in that person's mind.
3) Simple Reminders- taking time to get to know network contacts as people is important and if you come across a keepsake or article that would be of interest, take a few moments to send it to that person. This is a great way to catch someone's interest and will show you remembered the other person's interests
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Looking To Getting To Know Someone Means Taking Time To Get To Know Them
Meeting new people can be exciting but can also be nerve racking at the same time. Making a first impression is important but being over anxious or self-absorbed can be a turn off. When meeting someone new, making a wrong impression can be a turn off and may make it hard for someone to want to get to know you.
When meeting someone new, there is one big secret way to get them interested in talking to you, which is taking the time to listen and getting to know the other person.
During opportunities in which you could meet new people, it can be easy to provide your own verbal autobiography but it might not get you very far. Instead of telling people about yourself, take time to get to know the other person and his or her interests. Taking an interest in what the other person enjoys or is passionate about will get the person interested in talking to you and want to keep a conversation going.
A recent example I can provide on how to effectively do this is when I had dinner with someone who worked part time at a salon. Prior to this meeting, I didn't know this person worked at a salon and when it came up in conversation, I saw my opportunity. When I asked this person what it was like to work part time at the salon, the type of people she met, and how she started working there, she opened up during the conversation and felt comfortable talking to me throughout the evening.
In this example, I took the time to take interest in another person and began to inquire about something she was passionate about and enjoyed doing. As a result of this, I was able to have a great conversation with her and still have a great friendship with her to this day.
When you meet someone new, take time to find out what this person enjoys doing, his or her hobbies and what the person is passionate about in life. You don't have to make it a game of "20 Questions" but slowly show interest, inquire, and listen to the other person. By listening and showing interest, you will be able to hold a conversation, make the other person comfortable while talking to you and develop a relationship. Remember to listen, inquire and enjoy!
When meeting someone new, there is one big secret way to get them interested in talking to you, which is taking the time to listen and getting to know the other person.
During opportunities in which you could meet new people, it can be easy to provide your own verbal autobiography but it might not get you very far. Instead of telling people about yourself, take time to get to know the other person and his or her interests. Taking an interest in what the other person enjoys or is passionate about will get the person interested in talking to you and want to keep a conversation going.
A recent example I can provide on how to effectively do this is when I had dinner with someone who worked part time at a salon. Prior to this meeting, I didn't know this person worked at a salon and when it came up in conversation, I saw my opportunity. When I asked this person what it was like to work part time at the salon, the type of people she met, and how she started working there, she opened up during the conversation and felt comfortable talking to me throughout the evening.
In this example, I took the time to take interest in another person and began to inquire about something she was passionate about and enjoyed doing. As a result of this, I was able to have a great conversation with her and still have a great friendship with her to this day.
When you meet someone new, take time to find out what this person enjoys doing, his or her hobbies and what the person is passionate about in life. You don't have to make it a game of "20 Questions" but slowly show interest, inquire, and listen to the other person. By listening and showing interest, you will be able to hold a conversation, make the other person comfortable while talking to you and develop a relationship. Remember to listen, inquire and enjoy!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Getting A Phone Call at a Bad Time: Don't Panic!
As you are networking within your college and professional career, there will be instances in which taking a phone call will be easy and other times where taking a call will not be convenient. When receiving a call from a network contact, it is always best to be relaxed, calm and polite not matter what the circumstances might be.
When reaching out to others, there may be an instance or two in which you may not have the time to talk to someone at a particular moment. There may be times in which you need to go into another meeting, another call, or driving that will prohibit you from taking that person's phone call.
If this should happen, consider the following tips below:
1) Stay calm- Don't sound rushed or as if you are trying to get them off the phone as soon as possible. Stay relaxed and talk at a normal pace.
2) Thank the person for calling and ask for a time to call back - Always thank someone for taking the time to return your phone call and offer a time to call back. Consider the following examples:
"Mr. Smith, I want to thank you for returning my call. I am a bit tied up at the moment and would welcome the opportunity to speak with you. When is a good time I can call you back today or tomorrow?"
"Mr. Smith, I would like to thank you for reaching out to me. Unfortunately, I am a bit tied up at the moment but would welcome the opportunity to speak with you. When would be a good time for me to call you back?"
"I would like to thank you for returning my phone call, Mr. Smith. I do apologize but I am not in a position to talk right at this moment. I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you; when would be a good time for me to call you back?"
3) If you are driving, pull over or pull into a parking lot- Find someplace you can go to where you can concentrate just on the phone call at hand. This will help you listen to the person on the other end, ask the right questions and retain more of the information.
When reaching out to others, there may be an instance or two in which you may not have the time to talk to someone at a particular moment. There may be times in which you need to go into another meeting, another call, or driving that will prohibit you from taking that person's phone call.
If this should happen, consider the following tips below:
1) Stay calm- Don't sound rushed or as if you are trying to get them off the phone as soon as possible. Stay relaxed and talk at a normal pace.
2) Thank the person for calling and ask for a time to call back - Always thank someone for taking the time to return your phone call and offer a time to call back. Consider the following examples:
"Mr. Smith, I want to thank you for returning my call. I am a bit tied up at the moment and would welcome the opportunity to speak with you. When is a good time I can call you back today or tomorrow?"
"Mr. Smith, I would like to thank you for reaching out to me. Unfortunately, I am a bit tied up at the moment but would welcome the opportunity to speak with you. When would be a good time for me to call you back?"
"I would like to thank you for returning my phone call, Mr. Smith. I do apologize but I am not in a position to talk right at this moment. I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you; when would be a good time for me to call you back?"
3) If you are driving, pull over or pull into a parking lot- Find someplace you can go to where you can concentrate just on the phone call at hand. This will help you listen to the person on the other end, ask the right questions and retain more of the information.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Taking Time To Know Others: A Key To Building Relationships
Throughout life, there will always be opportunities to meet new people but sometimes we only get one chance to make a good first impression. Making a solid good first impression can lead to developing a relationship with that person later on. Building that relationship from that first meeting starts with taking time to learn about the other person.
Whenever you meet someone new, it is easy to want to provide your own verbal autobiography or talk a lot about yourself. While this may interest the other person a bit, doing it too much may also be a turn off. The key to getting to know the other person is to ask questions about them and learn about his or her interests and passions.
When asking someone to talk about him or herself, the goal is not to make it a game of 20 questions; it's to slowly learn about that person without getting too personal or making the other person feel like he or she is being interrogated. Take it slow, find small tidbits about hobbies, interests or small pieces of information and go from there.
During certain events in which you meet new people such as networking events, it's not always easy to know who is going to be there beforehand. The key to these situations is listen to what the person says and ask about a couple of specific points.
For example, if someone says he or she does volunteer work on the side, you can ask if they volunteer with an organization, what they enjoy about it and how he or she started volunteering. That way, it develops a conversation, gets the other person to talk about his or her interests and gives you the opportunity to learn about someone else. It's an opportunity to learn about someone else's passion and provides them a reason to keep talking to you.
Even though it sounds easy, it does take a little practice but there are different ways you can practice. If you are a college student, you can try having a small conversation with the people who work in the local coffee shop, the people who take care of you at the bookstore, the library, etc. When you are at the checkout line, take a few minutes to ask the person at the counter how his or her day is going and you might be surprised as to what you can find out. It might not be often that someone takes a few minutes to get to know these people and will help you stand out.
Building relationships in life is key and the first step is to take time to know the other person. Take time to listen, understand his or her interests and learn about them so you can build trust and that relationship.
Whenever you meet someone new, it is easy to want to provide your own verbal autobiography or talk a lot about yourself. While this may interest the other person a bit, doing it too much may also be a turn off. The key to getting to know the other person is to ask questions about them and learn about his or her interests and passions.
When asking someone to talk about him or herself, the goal is not to make it a game of 20 questions; it's to slowly learn about that person without getting too personal or making the other person feel like he or she is being interrogated. Take it slow, find small tidbits about hobbies, interests or small pieces of information and go from there.
During certain events in which you meet new people such as networking events, it's not always easy to know who is going to be there beforehand. The key to these situations is listen to what the person says and ask about a couple of specific points.
For example, if someone says he or she does volunteer work on the side, you can ask if they volunteer with an organization, what they enjoy about it and how he or she started volunteering. That way, it develops a conversation, gets the other person to talk about his or her interests and gives you the opportunity to learn about someone else. It's an opportunity to learn about someone else's passion and provides them a reason to keep talking to you.
Even though it sounds easy, it does take a little practice but there are different ways you can practice. If you are a college student, you can try having a small conversation with the people who work in the local coffee shop, the people who take care of you at the bookstore, the library, etc. When you are at the checkout line, take a few minutes to ask the person at the counter how his or her day is going and you might be surprised as to what you can find out. It might not be often that someone takes a few minutes to get to know these people and will help you stand out.
Building relationships in life is key and the first step is to take time to know the other person. Take time to listen, understand his or her interests and learn about them so you can build trust and that relationship.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
One of the Biggest Keys To Networking: Finding Information Out About the Other Person
Networking has proven to be an effective business tool and can be beneficial if done properly. Meeting people and developing these relationships can lead to a brighter future down the road. Meeting new people does take a little bit of practice and starting a conversation from scratch is not as hard as it seems. One of the biggest keys to developing a relationship from the start is taking time to listen to the other person and learning about him or her.
At networking events, it's usually easy to move around and meet several different people. Take time to maneuver around the room a bit and talk to several different types of people there. It's not always possible to know everyone but try and take time to get to know the different people who are attending the event.
When you start conversing with someone, try to avoid providing your whole life story in 30 seconds. If you enjoy your work, it is easy to get carried away on that topic and talk more about yourself instead of getting to know the other person. Talking too much about yourself can be a bit of a turnoff to someone and might bore the person you are talking to as well.
As a way to get to know the other person, start asking questions about what he or she does, hobbies, how he or she joined the organization hosting the event, etc. This way, it gets the person to open up a bit and provides you an opportunity to listen and learn more. I'm not saying to make it a game of 20 Questions and try to avoid too many yes and no questions. Take this as an opportunity to learn more about the other person and find common ground that might be there.
Networking is key but taking time to know the people you meet with is just as important!
At networking events, it's usually easy to move around and meet several different people. Take time to maneuver around the room a bit and talk to several different types of people there. It's not always possible to know everyone but try and take time to get to know the different people who are attending the event.
When you start conversing with someone, try to avoid providing your whole life story in 30 seconds. If you enjoy your work, it is easy to get carried away on that topic and talk more about yourself instead of getting to know the other person. Talking too much about yourself can be a bit of a turnoff to someone and might bore the person you are talking to as well.
As a way to get to know the other person, start asking questions about what he or she does, hobbies, how he or she joined the organization hosting the event, etc. This way, it gets the person to open up a bit and provides you an opportunity to listen and learn more. I'm not saying to make it a game of 20 Questions and try to avoid too many yes and no questions. Take this as an opportunity to learn more about the other person and find common ground that might be there.
Networking is key but taking time to know the people you meet with is just as important!
Saturday, October 9, 2010
ABBC- Always Bring Business Cards
Networking is one of the most powerful tools in business today but a surprising number of people forget to bring a valuable item when going to networking events; business cards. Even though it makes sense, there are many different networking and social events out there in which people forget to bring business cards.
These events are great opportunities to meet people but how are you supposed to be remembered if you don't have any information to leave with the people you are conversing with?
Whenever you go to a networking event, social or business-oriented function, take a fair number of business cards with you. You never know who you may run across as these events, who can be a valuable contact and the doors that can open up from these interactions so make sure you have your business cards with you. With the number of people that attend, it's best to leave the people you talk to a card with your contact information for future reference. The people you meet may end up with a lot of business cards towards the end of the night but your will be in the pile if you provide one.
If you are currently unemployed, it's understandable if you don't have a current business card, however, you can obtain business cards for this use. One of the most popular web-sites to go to for personal business cards is www.vistaprint.com, where you can design your own business cards and get a certain number of them for free. This web-site has helped a lot of different job seekers get business cards when they needed it and can provide you with the same benefits as well. Taking time to design these cards is worth the investment and having these available at a networking event can help key people you meet remember who you are.
Even though it can seem like a hassle, there are ways in which you can carry business cards efficiently and effectively. Sometimes having a case full of them in your pocket, wallet or purse makes them easy to pull out when you need it. Others will carry them in a shirt pocket for easy access and other simply keep them in a coat or pants pocket. Carrying these is easier then you think and it's always good to make sure they are accessible.
Whenever you go to a business function or networking event, remember ABBC, Always Bring Business Cards!
These events are great opportunities to meet people but how are you supposed to be remembered if you don't have any information to leave with the people you are conversing with?
Whenever you go to a networking event, social or business-oriented function, take a fair number of business cards with you. You never know who you may run across as these events, who can be a valuable contact and the doors that can open up from these interactions so make sure you have your business cards with you. With the number of people that attend, it's best to leave the people you talk to a card with your contact information for future reference. The people you meet may end up with a lot of business cards towards the end of the night but your will be in the pile if you provide one.
If you are currently unemployed, it's understandable if you don't have a current business card, however, you can obtain business cards for this use. One of the most popular web-sites to go to for personal business cards is www.vistaprint.com, where you can design your own business cards and get a certain number of them for free. This web-site has helped a lot of different job seekers get business cards when they needed it and can provide you with the same benefits as well. Taking time to design these cards is worth the investment and having these available at a networking event can help key people you meet remember who you are.
Even though it can seem like a hassle, there are ways in which you can carry business cards efficiently and effectively. Sometimes having a case full of them in your pocket, wallet or purse makes them easy to pull out when you need it. Others will carry them in a shirt pocket for easy access and other simply keep them in a coat or pants pocket. Carrying these is easier then you think and it's always good to make sure they are accessible.
Whenever you go to a business function or networking event, remember ABBC, Always Bring Business Cards!
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Find Your Niche With Networking Groups
Over the past several years, networking has grown into one of the most popular ways to find jobs and mingle with different professionals. As more and more job seeker groups become prevalent, opportunities to network are plentiful.
For those new to networking, it can be an intimidating task, however, the best way to find what type of networking group you are looking for is to get out and try several of them. It doesn't hurt to go to more then one and you don't have to limit yourself at all.
Below are different tips on finding networking groups and events you are comfortable with and getting the most out of these sessions:
1) Go to networking groups that have a large turnout and small turnouts- Doing this will help you decide if you feel more comfortable networking in a large room full of people or a small get together at a local coffee shop or restaurant. Some networkers prefer a larger setting while others prefer a smaller and relaxed setting to meet with new people. The only way to find out which type of interaction works best for you is to try both types of groups.
2) Always bring business cards or a notepad- Make sure you have a way for people to remember who you are and if you can't get a person card from another person, have a small notepad to take down his or her information. People do make the mistake of not bringing business cards to a networking event and it's harder for people to remember who you are if you don't give them something to remember you by. For large and small groups, business cards are a must and have that notepad available in case you meet someone you would like to network with who doesn't have a card.
3) Keep your eyes open for networking events in the evening or at restaurants- Networking events in the evening and/or at restaurants during this time typically are more relaxed and are in a closed setting. The people you meet there are often winding down from the day at work and a restaurant often serves as a relaxed setting. This will allow you to network with other professionals when they are a bit more relaxed and not so focused on work.
4) Find networking events within your field- Most industries have organizations associated with them (e.g. PRSSA for Public Relations Professionals) and sometimes networking events are planned as a way to get new members or have an outing. These events can be big or small based on the organization planning it and you will get to meet people within your specific field. It doesn't hurt to look into these groups and attend one of their networking events.
For those new to networking, it can be an intimidating task, however, the best way to find what type of networking group you are looking for is to get out and try several of them. It doesn't hurt to go to more then one and you don't have to limit yourself at all.
Below are different tips on finding networking groups and events you are comfortable with and getting the most out of these sessions:
1) Go to networking groups that have a large turnout and small turnouts- Doing this will help you decide if you feel more comfortable networking in a large room full of people or a small get together at a local coffee shop or restaurant. Some networkers prefer a larger setting while others prefer a smaller and relaxed setting to meet with new people. The only way to find out which type of interaction works best for you is to try both types of groups.
2) Always bring business cards or a notepad- Make sure you have a way for people to remember who you are and if you can't get a person card from another person, have a small notepad to take down his or her information. People do make the mistake of not bringing business cards to a networking event and it's harder for people to remember who you are if you don't give them something to remember you by. For large and small groups, business cards are a must and have that notepad available in case you meet someone you would like to network with who doesn't have a card.
3) Keep your eyes open for networking events in the evening or at restaurants- Networking events in the evening and/or at restaurants during this time typically are more relaxed and are in a closed setting. The people you meet there are often winding down from the day at work and a restaurant often serves as a relaxed setting. This will allow you to network with other professionals when they are a bit more relaxed and not so focused on work.
4) Find networking events within your field- Most industries have organizations associated with them (e.g. PRSSA for Public Relations Professionals) and sometimes networking events are planned as a way to get new members or have an outing. These events can be big or small based on the organization planning it and you will get to meet people within your specific field. It doesn't hurt to look into these groups and attend one of their networking events.
Monday, July 5, 2010
For a Job Seeker, Time Management Can Be One of Your Biggest Enemies
Searching for a job can be a long process and does take up a lot of time. Getting opportunities to interview, preparing for interviews and meeting people does take a lot of time and can be exhausting. Not properly managing your time can hinder you significantly and can slow down your progress.
Below are some tips for managing your time properly during a job search:
Set a daily schedule for yourself and stick to it - Even though you are not working, set a daily work schedule for yourself as if you are working. Set aside at least several hours each day (typically seven or eight) and stay close to that schedule. The best time to reach out to network contacts is during business hours and those should be the hours you are working to find your next position.
Write down your daily tasks each day- Writing down what you have to do each day on a sheet of paper might sound tedious but will help you remember what you need to accomplish on a daily basis and keep yourself focused. Making checklists or to-do lists can help you stay organized and keep you up to date with what needs to be accomplished for a successful job search. This will also help you remember appointments, interviews and follow ups.
Keep mind of opportunities to network- Sometimes we are faced with choices in life and when it comes to networking events, we do have choices to make. Networking events can be intimidating at times but have proven to be effective ways to find a job. Getting out and meeting new people is a great way to find other opportunities for jobs. Networking events can make the day longer, however, they are worth the time and you never know what might arise afterwards. Taking time to go to these events will increase the number of people you meet during your search and can help point you in the right direction.
Keep mind of opportunities that might not come often- While networking, you will come across people who have hectic schedules and will not have a lot of time to talk. If you are given an opportunities to speak with that person (even if it's by phone), make time in your schedule to do so. You never know what might come of that conversation and if you pass, you might not get that opportunity to speak with that individual again. Take the opportunity when given and it might open up another door for you.
Below are some tips for managing your time properly during a job search:
Set a daily schedule for yourself and stick to it - Even though you are not working, set a daily work schedule for yourself as if you are working. Set aside at least several hours each day (typically seven or eight) and stay close to that schedule. The best time to reach out to network contacts is during business hours and those should be the hours you are working to find your next position.
Write down your daily tasks each day- Writing down what you have to do each day on a sheet of paper might sound tedious but will help you remember what you need to accomplish on a daily basis and keep yourself focused. Making checklists or to-do lists can help you stay organized and keep you up to date with what needs to be accomplished for a successful job search. This will also help you remember appointments, interviews and follow ups.
Keep mind of opportunities to network- Sometimes we are faced with choices in life and when it comes to networking events, we do have choices to make. Networking events can be intimidating at times but have proven to be effective ways to find a job. Getting out and meeting new people is a great way to find other opportunities for jobs. Networking events can make the day longer, however, they are worth the time and you never know what might arise afterwards. Taking time to go to these events will increase the number of people you meet during your search and can help point you in the right direction.
Keep mind of opportunities that might not come often- While networking, you will come across people who have hectic schedules and will not have a lot of time to talk. If you are given an opportunities to speak with that person (even if it's by phone), make time in your schedule to do so. You never know what might come of that conversation and if you pass, you might not get that opportunity to speak with that individual again. Take the opportunity when given and it might open up another door for you.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Burnt Bridges Are Almost Impossible To Rebuild
Even though it's been said time and time again, "never burining a bridge" is good advice and practice that will hold for a long time. Upsetting someone or destroying a relationship with a customer, client, hiring manager or even your boss can have negative consequences for a long time. Burning the bridge that stands between you and another person could cost you career opportunities later on due to the connections that person might have with others. While others might anger us and not treat us well, burning a bridge with someone can lead to negative effects for a long time.
Most of the time, burning a bridge can come from someone losing his or her cool during a conversation or situation with another person. Losing a temper can lead to heated discussions and make for an unpleasant situation. Situations can be stressful but losing your temper on someone can make the situation even worse. If you feel upset over a particular situation, take some time to cool off and calmly talk to the other person involved in the matter. That way, the other person won't feel you are attacking him or her and you can still have that relationship for the future. Heated discussions can lead to inappropriate behavior and both sides and burning the bridge as a result of it can hinder your success in the future.
During a job search, there have been situations in which candidates burned bridges with the hiring managers over simple tasks. Throughout my college years, many of the people I interned for or heard speak at other events had one or two stories of job candidates blowing up at them over small matters such as not sending in a resume like the hiring manager had asked or following directions. Hiring managers determine whether or not you will get a chance to interview for a position and destroying that relationship before it starts can not only eliminate you from that position but probably several others. This hiring manager might know people who work at competitors in the same industry or other people looking to hire talent. Burning the bridge with a hiring manager can prevent you from getting other opportunities for positions later on.
In addition to losing it with hiring managers and other company personnel, many people burn bridges by utilizing social media or job seeker groups to voice their displeasure towards an individual or company. This practice is often not appreciated by those being trashed in these interactions and can burn a bridge with more then the person being mentioned. That person's connections might see what was posted or written and may not appreciate what is being said either.
Even though it may be hard to do at times, never burning a bridge with someone can help alleviate stress and missed opportunities later. Destroying a relationship with someone can have negative consequences that can never be rebuilt after the altercation. A burnt bridge is impossible to get across and you might miss the opportunities on the side if you decide to burn it in the first place.
Most of the time, burning a bridge can come from someone losing his or her cool during a conversation or situation with another person. Losing a temper can lead to heated discussions and make for an unpleasant situation. Situations can be stressful but losing your temper on someone can make the situation even worse. If you feel upset over a particular situation, take some time to cool off and calmly talk to the other person involved in the matter. That way, the other person won't feel you are attacking him or her and you can still have that relationship for the future. Heated discussions can lead to inappropriate behavior and both sides and burning the bridge as a result of it can hinder your success in the future.
During a job search, there have been situations in which candidates burned bridges with the hiring managers over simple tasks. Throughout my college years, many of the people I interned for or heard speak at other events had one or two stories of job candidates blowing up at them over small matters such as not sending in a resume like the hiring manager had asked or following directions. Hiring managers determine whether or not you will get a chance to interview for a position and destroying that relationship before it starts can not only eliminate you from that position but probably several others. This hiring manager might know people who work at competitors in the same industry or other people looking to hire talent. Burning the bridge with a hiring manager can prevent you from getting other opportunities for positions later on.
In addition to losing it with hiring managers and other company personnel, many people burn bridges by utilizing social media or job seeker groups to voice their displeasure towards an individual or company. This practice is often not appreciated by those being trashed in these interactions and can burn a bridge with more then the person being mentioned. That person's connections might see what was posted or written and may not appreciate what is being said either.
Even though it may be hard to do at times, never burning a bridge with someone can help alleviate stress and missed opportunities later. Destroying a relationship with someone can have negative consequences that can never be rebuilt after the altercation. A burnt bridge is impossible to get across and you might miss the opportunities on the side if you decide to burn it in the first place.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Short and Sweet is a Good Strategy
In today's world, hiring managers and even HR professionals are pressed for time. With appointments, assignments, and other daily tasks to take care of, time can be limited for these individuals. This time shortage could also limit the amount of time someone takes to look at your resume, listen to your phone message or read your cover letter. With little time to spare, having a message in a resume, cover letter, phone call or e-mail that is concise, short and sweet to the point will help you get your foot in the door for a job interview or networking opportunity.
When applying for jobs, having a resume that is concise, to the point and easy to read will get your message and ideas across to a hiring manager. Writing up a resume that is concise takes time but can be done with hard work, another set of eyes looking at it and patience. It might seem hard but there is a way to get your accomplishments and experiences across in shorter sentences. Look for words that are repeated too often, redundant phrases that are repeated more then once in the same section, and use bullet points to list your accomplishments. Have another set of eyes look at it before sending it off so that you can tell whether or not you got your message across. If this person can't read your resume because it is not concise, the hiring manager won't be able to comprehend it in a short amount of time either.
In addition to a resume, a cover letter that is to the point and has concise points to it can easily get your message across effectively and efficiently to the hiring manager. If you are applying for a job that is posted online or was posted elsewhere, take a look at the qualifications the company is looking for and figure out different bullet points as to how your experiences match what the company is looking for in a candidate. Using bullet points with good lead in sentences before them can help a hiring manager read your resume in a short amount of time and determine if you are a good candidate for the position. A cover letter is designed to prove what you are capable of and show how your qualifications match what the company needs and having a cover letter that has concise bullet points will help get your message across effectively.
During the networking process, if you decide to reach out to someone via phone call or e-mail, make sure your message is short and sweet so that the hiring manager can understand why you are reaching out and what you are looking to do. When reaching out via phone call or e-mail, one of the best ways to format this type of communication is do use the following template:
"Hello Mr. Smith, my name is Jeff Sabo and I obtained your name from [fill in the blank here. Always mention the name of the person who gave you the name of the contact]. He [or she] thought you would be a good person to talk to in regards to finding a [fill in the blank here] position within your industry.
When it's best for you, I would welcome the opportunity to hear your thoughts and advice on finding such a position. Please call me at [leave your phone number here] when you have a free moment.
Thank you."
By using this type of template, you are getting your message across quickly, you are getting to the point and the person you leaving the message for will understand what you are looking for easily. A message that is way too long runs the chances of being ignored or ends up being responded to by someone who is very confused on the other end (I once sent off an e-mail that was WAY TOO LONG to a possible network contact and the person told me over the phone during a call back that she had no idea what I was really looking for because my message was so long and drawn out.)
Whether you are writing out your resume, cover letter, or placing a phone call or e-mail, having a message that is concise and to the point will help the hiring manager or network contact understand your message and know how to help you.
When applying for jobs, having a resume that is concise, to the point and easy to read will get your message and ideas across to a hiring manager. Writing up a resume that is concise takes time but can be done with hard work, another set of eyes looking at it and patience. It might seem hard but there is a way to get your accomplishments and experiences across in shorter sentences. Look for words that are repeated too often, redundant phrases that are repeated more then once in the same section, and use bullet points to list your accomplishments. Have another set of eyes look at it before sending it off so that you can tell whether or not you got your message across. If this person can't read your resume because it is not concise, the hiring manager won't be able to comprehend it in a short amount of time either.
In addition to a resume, a cover letter that is to the point and has concise points to it can easily get your message across effectively and efficiently to the hiring manager. If you are applying for a job that is posted online or was posted elsewhere, take a look at the qualifications the company is looking for and figure out different bullet points as to how your experiences match what the company is looking for in a candidate. Using bullet points with good lead in sentences before them can help a hiring manager read your resume in a short amount of time and determine if you are a good candidate for the position. A cover letter is designed to prove what you are capable of and show how your qualifications match what the company needs and having a cover letter that has concise bullet points will help get your message across effectively.
During the networking process, if you decide to reach out to someone via phone call or e-mail, make sure your message is short and sweet so that the hiring manager can understand why you are reaching out and what you are looking to do. When reaching out via phone call or e-mail, one of the best ways to format this type of communication is do use the following template:
"Hello Mr. Smith, my name is Jeff Sabo and I obtained your name from [fill in the blank here. Always mention the name of the person who gave you the name of the contact]. He [or she] thought you would be a good person to talk to in regards to finding a [fill in the blank here] position within your industry.
When it's best for you, I would welcome the opportunity to hear your thoughts and advice on finding such a position. Please call me at [leave your phone number here] when you have a free moment.
Thank you."
By using this type of template, you are getting your message across quickly, you are getting to the point and the person you leaving the message for will understand what you are looking for easily. A message that is way too long runs the chances of being ignored or ends up being responded to by someone who is very confused on the other end (I once sent off an e-mail that was WAY TOO LONG to a possible network contact and the person told me over the phone during a call back that she had no idea what I was really looking for because my message was so long and drawn out.)
Whether you are writing out your resume, cover letter, or placing a phone call or e-mail, having a message that is concise and to the point will help the hiring manager or network contact understand your message and know how to help you.
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