No matter how senior you are in your organization or how secure you believe is your position, you would do well to take an entrepreneurial attitude toward your career. It is comforting to believe others will take care of you, and it's easy to become either complacent...
If you’re older than 50 and looking for advice to approach your job search, there are plenty of resources online to get your mental wheels in motion. After reviewing a variety of readings, I found Kerry Hannon’s article, “The 11 Biggest Mistakes Older Job Hunters Make” as having some particular thoughts I think deserve some extra attention. Click here for her full article, but I wanted to list a few of the standouts from it.
Of all times the word networking really hits one’s ear, it is when it is used in conjunction with looking for a job. The word alone tends to evoke an emotional response. Those energized by the idea might enjoy talking with people, but they aren’t necessarily effective networkers. Conversely, those intimidated by the very notion of reaching out can be very successful at it. Instead of approaching networking by taking a deep breath, extending yourself and hoping for the best, make sure you first understand how to implement the process. Paul Bernard offers his thoughts on that very topic in his article, “6 Tips For Networking Success.”
Question: I have been doing international contracts for the past decade. Many of them have been with affiliated organizations. Recently, I saw a great opportunity with an NGO with which I worked several years ago. I want to apply, but I hesitate. Is there some rule against working for the same employer twice? Will the recruiter see I previously worked with them and screen me out?
Q: I have contacted everyone I know about leads for jobs. A few have been helpful; most have been non-responsive. What do you suggest?
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.
Question: I have been in the financial services sector for the past fifteen years working for a number of big name companies operating mostly out of New York City. I would like to take on a not-for-profit leadership role that taps my three core strengths of client management, team-building and business/funds development. How should I proceed?
I have read many of your blogs. I use networking as a tool for professional advancement as you repeatedly suggest, but, frankly, it is not working. When I meet people and give them my card, they seem eager to help. When I contact them, few respond and those that do withhold critical information. My longstanding professional colleagues are not helpful either. They do not return my calls or respond to my emails. I am very disappointed in your strategy. Networking is not working.