We’re experiencing life like never before. Our challenges and opportunities are much different
than our parents or even those from a decade ago.
Ask The Coach is your opportunity to ask whatever’s
on your mind and hear back from Coach Lisa-Michelle, who shares her expertise — a unique combination of career and life
coaching, human resources, marketing, business management, personal branding, and so much more.
A certified coach and
founder and president of Ace The Race, LLC, Lisa-Michelle is a member of the International Coach Federation and International Association of Business Communicators.
She served on the Executive Board of the International Coach Federation’s Long Island Chapter and volunteers as a career
and life coach.
Dear Coach,
I was laid off last month from my job of
eight years. I’ve been sending out resumes almost every day and haven’t heard back from anyone. Several people
are pushing me to attend networking events and join Facebook and LinkedIn. I’m a single mother and don’t have
a lot of spare time. I want to find a new job quickly, but don’t know what to do first. Where do I begin?
— Needs New Job Now, NY, 42
Dear Needs New Job Now,
Networking and social media are much more
than the latest trend, so thank the people around you who are encouraging you to get in the game. It would have been better
if you were already involved with these activities before you lost your job, but the good news is it’s never too late.
Everyone has a limited amount of time, so it’s very smart that you’re looking to put your efforts where the potential
reward is the greatest.
LinkedIn is the best place to start. Set up a detailed profile, including
previous employers. Grow your contacts by reaching out to former colleagues, supervisors, business acquaintances, friends,
and family. Include a recent professional photo. Don’t be shy, and request recommendations. Join relevant groups, starting
with professional associations and interest groups. Participate in appropriate discussions. And, let people know you’re
looking for a new position.
Forget about Facebook for job seeking. Its primary use is to connect with
family and friends. Some people reach out to anyone they ever met or even friends of friends with whom they are unacquainted.
This is not looked upon favorably and won’t do anything to advance your goal.
Attending events could
be very beneficial, but you need to carefully choose which ones you’ll attend. Once again, start with professional associations
and interest groups. There are some networking events without any focus other than general networking. I’ve found most
people who attend these are very disappointed.
Don’t forget to find the right balance between
online and face-to-face activities. There’s great value in both.
In addition, have a professional review
your resume and cover letter. Depending on your budget, you may want a complete resume overhaul or just a few pointers. Either
can go a long way in getting your phone to ring.
Lastly, look for local job fairs, but only attend ones where the participating
companies are relevant to your field or profession.
Your time is valuable and limited. Make
the most of it.
Good luck!
Lisa-Michelle
Ask The Coach originally appeared in Blog @ The 40 Factor.
