Q: I have been a professor for the past 15 years and would like to serve the not-for-profit sector in a leadership capacity. I have tried everything from applying online and following up on job board posts to responding to newspaper ads. Nothing has even resulted in an interview. What strategy do you suggest for making the transition from the professor role to something mission centered?
A: From what you are telling me, you have done a very thorough job of following externally generated leads. My advice is to tap “internally generated” leads. By that, I mean follow up on leads directly coming out of your existing personal networks. Sometimes, networking means acquiring new contacts related to your chosen profession. In this case, it means more efficiently using your existing contacts.
A strong strategy to use to this end is to leverage your references. Look at your reference list from an angle you might not otherwise which is to revisit it as a primary source of contacts, connections and new ideas. The advantage of this over making new connections is that your references already know and think highly of you; A positive relationship is already in place.
Think carefully about each person on that list. Sometimes, references get stale or, for one reasons or another, are less current regarding your professional growth. Do a bit of pruning. Eliminate those who might not be as effective as you would like, and include others who you think really “get” what you are about these days.
Once you identify a solid list, start to set up coffee, lunch or Skype meetings with them. See who is willing to meet to discuss career matters. When you meet, explain you are on a serious job hunt and that you are looking for “warm” contacts in organizations that can benefit from your years of experience. Be explicit about the kinds of places you are looking. Then, directly ask your references whether they would be willing to help you work out some informational meetings with potential employers. Assure them you appreciate anything they can do to introduce you to people of influence at select NFPs. Also, assure that you understand if they do not have the time to help in this way.
Once you get explicit buy in (or opt out) from your references, ask for any contacts they may have. You can also ask if they know someone else who might have the kinds of contacts and/or information that would be helpful to you. Keep asking, and quickly follow up on contacts not forgetting to observe protocol. Send thank you notes. Refer them to others when appropriate. Throughout this kind of networking, be a great team player.
After four to six meetings, you should start to hear repeat names and duplications of organizations. Similar strategies should emerge. The streamlined version of the advice you receive will become the hub of your new strategy.
The beauty of this way of working is that it leads you from one interested person to another instead of from one cold contact to cold contact. Eventually, you will find an organization and/or a position of high interest that you can pursue with the benefit of insider knowledge and a network that directly relates to the role at hand. This is a real competitive advantage.
This strategy may not work if you needed a job yesterday and/or you cannot afford the time it takes to strategically leverage important relationships. However, if time is on your side, this is definitely one path that will broaden your networks and lead you to unexpected career opportunities.
Contact Karen Alphonse at Karena@execSearches.com or visit ExecSearches.com for more information about our career coaching services.
#
Share this:
0 Comments