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How are you asking for feedback?

6 October 2011, 3:43 pm

And what are you getting? And for that matter, what are you giving when asked?

In the past few months, I’ve had two people hand me a product (virtually or in person) with no context or reference to their attachment or affiliation, what I was viewing or why I would be interested. The only guidance I got was the equivalent of a generic, “So. What ‘cha think?”

A few months ago, Karen Swim and I were having an email conversation about feedback. She wisely observed, “When you ask for an opinion, many people will look for something to pick apart just so they feel ‘valued.'”

Guess what I did in both instances when I was asked for feedback? Correct. I found a way to give a negative “pick-apart” initial response. Turns out, both products were near and dear to the asker’s heart. My natural propensity (like it or not) to “offer” value through negative feedback and my perception “we were all picking apart the product” ended up in me doing some back pedaling.

Is it wrong to go to the negative first when asked to give feedback? Probably. But, if we’re honest, we’ve all done it. More than once. Is it wrong to ask for feedback without any information and then be dismayed when what you get is not what you wanted? Probably. But, we all do that too.

Transition this scenario to the job seeker. You’ve recently invested in working with a career professional or invested hours and hours researching, writing and tweaking your resume. You show it to your friends. You excitedly ask, “So. What ‘cha think?”

Let’s keep in mind the people you’re asking, usually:

– Haven’t job searched recently
– Never had a role in the hiring process, ever
– Used to work in HR … 20 years ago
– Read a book about resumes, in college, 8 years ago
– Aren’t quite sure what you do for living … something to do with plastics*
– Have no idea about your career goals
– Don’t know the preferences for your target industry
– Have never worked in the size company or the industry you’re targeting
– Knows you’re changing careers, but not sure of the specifics

I could go on. (And on and on and on …)

Think about it. You’ve asked the simple “What ‘cha think?” question to a group of friends, relatives and acquaintances with widely-varying career and job search backgrounds. Add to that, they may not be up to speed on the specifics of your search. You’ve given no context to what you’re looking for to a group of people who want to feel valued by you.

The input starts:

– I heard you’re supposed to have an objective. Where’s the objective?
– It’s too many words.
– It’s not enough words.
– It’s too detailed.
– It’s not detailed enough.
– I heard bullets are supposed to be round, not square.
– They’ll know what you mean. You don’t have to explain it.
– It should only be one page.
– Shouldn’t it be more than page?
– I’m not sure about the format. It’s different than every other resume I’ve seen.

You’re on top of the world, so proud of your new document. You ask for (unguided) feedback from friends and poof! in a second you’re second guessing everything you know and your confidence is waning. (Multiply that effect for unemployed job seekers.)

Photo by Justin_D_Miller via Flickr

Did anyone intend to burst your bubble? Did you expect everyone you spoke with to find something “wrong” with your career documents? Of course not. On both counts. But it happens. Time and time again.

I worked with a laid-off salesman a while back. He LOVED his resume; was excited to launch the search. He felt on top of the world. Then he showed it to 10 people. Guess what? Ten people had twenty different opinions. It took almost an-hour-and-a-half to explain, validate or debunk what he had been told. What little confidence he had was shot, his head was spinning and he wasn’t sure what to do or where to turn.

This most likely could have been avoided had he asked for feedback differently: “I really like my resume. I engaged with a professional who helped me focus on a specific target using a strategy successful in 2011. (Or I’ve done extensive research … ) “Would you mind reading it over for clarity, please?” Or, “You know my career quite well. I’m trying to spotlight this set of skills as I transition industries. Will you please read my resume and see if you remember anything I did that might be a better example?”  Or, “Would you proofread this for me please? I’m good with the content and format. I just want a second set of eyes to catch any errors I may have missed.”

Each of these examples sets the expectation for the type of input requested. The need for your friend, associate or whoever to figure out what you need and in turn, how to be valued is eliminated. You’ve asked a specific question. You now have the opportunity to receive solid input. If you’re unsure about the input, ask your trusted career professional about it (or spend time doing research to determine validity) and see if what you’ve heard fits with your specific goal.

Going forward, I’ll do a better job of asking clarifying questions before offering off-the-cuff responses. Hopefully my faux pas will help you remember to clarify what was asked or share what you expect in asking. And do remember, everyone has an opinion. Have the confidence to sort through the input and pick and choose what works for you – not try to incorporate everything. (Your head will explode.) As a good friend told me recently, “I might ask for your opinion. It doesn’t mean I’m going to use it.” Have the confidence to ask. Also have the confidence to ignore.

Snark is easy. Thoughtful constructive feedback takes a bit more effort on both parts.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PS: Does asking for clarification mean I (or you) won’t give an honest opinion? PUH-lease. In my case, “If you don’t want to know the answer, don’t ask the question.” However, when knowing the goal and context of the question we all can be much more focused on solid feedback than offering misguided answers to questions that weren’t asked. That goes for people attempting to help you in your search too.

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Serendipity of simple conversations: A networking story

27 September 2011, 11:02 am

There it is. The KISS snowglobe

On July 29th, 2010, I glanced at my left hand and noticed, to my horror, the main stone, a marquis-cut sapphire, in my engagement ring was gone. The day was my 11th wedding anniversary. (Gotta love the irony.) My husband and I checked into replacing the stone, but opted to put the purchase on hold for a while.

This past Saturday, we decided to revisit replacing the stone. In preparation, we dug in drawers and old jewelry boxes.  We gathered a small pile of “scrap” gold and sterling silver jewelry and headed to the jewelry store.

We waited for the next available appraiser. Shannon called us to her office. We chatted while she sorted the things of value from the “this looks ‘fishy,’ let me test it further” pieces. While sorting through the silver, she noticed a dachshund pin and asked if we had pets. She shared she had two cats named Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. My husband, a musician himself, grinned and said, “So you like KISS?”

She stopped what she was doing, leaned in and grinning from ear-to-ear shared she LOVED them. She went on to tell us her entire house was very conservative and “plaid.” Plaid that is until the splash of KISS. Plaid. Plaid. KISS. We had quite a laugh together; it was nice to see her “other side.” (She has a picture of her and Gene Simmons on her phone. We’re talking serious fan. Love it!)

She continued working on our appraisal. My husband asked if she had ever seen a KISS snow globe.

Several years ago we somehow became the “proud” owners of a KISS snow globe (neither of us really remembers how it came to be ours, which is somehow fitting. :)) To say it was my least favorite “objet d’art” in the house would be an understatement.

Shannon “lit up” when she heard the words “KISS snow globe.” My husband glanced at me, and in the unspoken language of love between married people, my glance back said, “GET THAT THING OUT OF THE HOUSE.” He turned to Shannon and said, “We have one. We’d love for you to have it.” She almost burst with excitement.

Seriously. Can you blame me?

Today, the KISS snow globe goes to a new home. Shannon joked she was going to build a shrine for it. Part of me believes her. LOL. I’m thrilled it’s gone. She’s thrilled to have it. We’re all thrilled we met each other.

And there’s the job search lesson in this story. A simple conversation led to good things all around. Think about it. There are lots of jewelry stores in the Wilmington area. We went to that one. There are five appraisers on staff at that store. We happened to be paired with the one appraiser who likes KISS. There happened to be a piece of animal shaped jewelry in the mix, sparking the conversation about pets. My husband happened to recognize the correlation between her cat’s names and KISS. And now because of all that happenstance, we all happen to be happy.

I tell clients, “You never know, who knows, who knows, who, who can help get you a job.” Substitute golf or sports or quilting or painting for the “pets” segue in our conversation and substitute employment opportunity for “new home for the KISS snow globe” opportunity. You can see how chance, unexpected, unplanned meetings can lead to something completely unrelated to the original goal, yet equally or additionally wonderful.

Networking doesn’t have to be anything formal or planned. It’s not confined just to job search either. Traveling though life, open to opportunities to give frequently and take occasionally, provides a nice foundation for strong, life-long connections. We may not have dinner with Shannon every week, if ever, but if there’s a need for our paths to cross again, we’ve established trust and can add to the foundation our first serendipitous exchange started.

PS – While the appraisal didn’t completely cover the replacement cost of the stone, it brought it within reach. I’m excited to be able to wear my ring again. I only have to wait two weeks.

Happy to be "heading" to a new home.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

UPDATE: 10-12-11: I picked up my ring and delivered Shannon’s snow globe today. A crazy period of unscheduled illness and schedule vacation prevented the exchange before now. She is thrilled with her globe. I am thrilled to have my wedding set back on my left hand where it belongs. A good day all around!

The snow globe and its new owner, Shannon (Click on the picture for her full bio)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Are you positive about your job search?

18 July 2011, 2:42 pm

Career Collective post: Once a month, a group of career professionals blog on a subject topical and timely for a job seeker. We’ll post our thoughts on our own blog and link to the post of our colleagues on the same topic.

This month’s topic: Mid-year job search checkup

Responses from others contributors linked at the end. Follow the hashtag #Career Collective on Twitter.

You’ve set up metrics to track resume send-out-versus-response ratios. You’re so engaged with your network, you know who you spoke with, when, the topic of conversation and have scheduled a date and time for the next contact. You set up social media profiles across the web making you Google-able. You online presence is pristine. You engaged a career professional to make sure your resume and other career documents properly positioned you. On paper and online, you appear to be a slam-dunk candidate for many positions in your industry. You interview well too. But wait … you’re still unemployed or you still haven’t been able to land a new position. What gives?

First, if you’re not in the enviable position, online and on paper, as outlined above, be sure to read all the Career Collective contributions this month. You’re sure to pick up helpful tips and tricks to bring your career marketing collateral and job search strategy up to snuff.

Now, if you’ve got all this going for you, why no job offers? When was the last time you sat down and had an honest look at how you present yourself to the world? I’m not talking about external appearances. I’m talking attitude, outlook and perspective. If you’re doing everything right in a job search and your persona contradicts the message conveyed in your introductory documents, you’re going to have a difficult search. People hire people with positive attitudes and energy. Be sure your habits support that positive projection

Find a quiet spot (like this one) and take a long, hard, honest look at what needs to change.

Moore's Creek, western Pender County, NC

  • Do you hang with a crowd that’s usually complaining about something?

Assess how external forces affect your internal sentences. Picking, poking and complaining about everything under the sun might be all in fun when you’re together with your friends. But, sometimes, that negative tone creeps into everyday conversations and starts to jade your entire perception of the world. Does that mean you have to dump your friends to get a job?

Of course not, but at least be aware of any effect “negative” jokes and kidding have on your personal view of life. Your assessment might cause you to initiate a change in how the group interacts (not an easy feat). It might be a good idea to change the group dynamic and add some new people to the mix at your next event. Or, you might decide to reduce the group events for a while and keep in touch with individuals.

  • Has your job search support group turned into a commiseration session?

When you first joined the group, you left meetings energized, full of ideas and suggestions to propel your search forward. As time wore on, you began to leave meetings more discouraged than when you went in. Your commitment to the people in the group is still there, but the benefits evaporated long ago.

Apply some of the same ideas listed above to change group dynamics without eliminating the group completely. But don’t be afraid to admit it’s time to move on either. Your loyalty has to be to you and your positive mental state.

  • Are you parked on the sofa watching the six-o-clock news every night?

If you’re told (or tell yourself) something often enough, it becomes your reality. If you spend an hour each evening listening to how horrible things are in the world right now, chances are the message will eventually seep into your perception.

A client recently told me, she knew she needed to look for a job, but she watched the news every night. She heard how difficult the job market is right now and adopted the perception that to do anything would be a waste of effort. My advice to her: Turn off your TV. (Apologies to the news industry.)

In lieu of such a drastic measure, at least keep things in perspective. You don’t have to find a job for every single unemployed individual in the United States; you only have to find one, for you. If watching the news every night is stressing you out, there are plenty of ways to stay current with world events, on your terms. Find what works for you and protect your positive outlook. Focus on what you can do to improve on your personal news; not on things you cannot control.

  • Is your family supportive of your search and your career?

Does the question, “So. Do you have a job YET?” pop up daily in family conversations? Does it feel like an inquisition at family gatherings as second-cousins-three-times-removed (what does that mean??) start grilling you about and assessing your job search efforts? Do you get that “sure you are dear” look whenever you share career goals and aspirations?

If family interactions leave you curled in a fetal position under your desk while you’re trying to conduct a job search, it’s up to you to take action. They mean well, but it might be time for a conversation with those closest to you. Ask for their support and tell them what they can do help, and what hurts.

Develop a thick skin for those occasional (unintentional) barbs from extended family and friends. Everyone has an opinion. That doesn’t mean you have to absorb each and every one. As in the examples before, take charge of the dynamic or make some difficult decision about interactions and frequency.

  • Does an (involuntary) frown creep across your face when you talk about past positions and people?

No matter how many times you tell yourself, everything’s fine, if you don’t have a “poker face” when talking about what happened or is happening to encourage you into a job search, you’re going to lose in the job search game.

Find an outlet or method to handle the (understandable) anger and negative energy so it doesn’t make unwanted appearances during career conversations. If you have to, engage friends or sit in front of a mirror to put a positive perspective (spin) on less than perfect circumstances. You don’t want the look on your face and your actions to drown out the value you’re trying to convey.

  • What are you saying to yourself?

What kind of tapes play in your head all day long? I’m not talking about your iPod play list. Are you saying positive things to you about you or is your dialogue peppered with, “You idiot. I can’t believe you were so stupid. I’ll never find a job. It’s not my fault, the world is against me. I never do anything right. I’m always late.” – enough! You get the idea. You spend more time with yourself than you do with anyone else on the planet. Be encouraging in what you say to yourself. (For more on this topic: “What are YOU saying about you?“and “…And then shut up“)

Time and time again I’ve read comments from hiring authorities indicating candidate attitudes play a huge role in hiring decisions. Specific skills can be trained. Attitude determines the success of that training. As I said, people hire positive people. It’s in a job seekers best interest to develop a positive energy in addition to executing a well-strategized search. Remember, the unspoken sometimes speaks louder than the words being said. Rediscover your joie de vivre and see if that isn’t the mid-year tweak your job search needed.

Here’s what my colleagues have to say:

Career Collective

4 Summer Strategies to Step Up Your Job Search, @DebraWheatman

Putting Your Job Search Up On The Rack For Inspection, @dawnrasmussen

Mid-Year Job Search Checkup: Are you wasting your time? @GayleHoward

What is your unique value proposition? @keppie_careers

It is Time for Your Check-up Ms/Mr Jobseeker, @careersherpa

Mid-Year Career Checkup: Are You “On Your Game?” @KatCareerGal

How to Perform a Mid-Year Job Search Checkup, @heatherhuhman

Reposition your job search for success, @LaurieBerenson

Mid-Year Job Search Checkup: What’s working and What’s not? @erinkennedycprw

Mid-Year Job Search Check-Up: Getting Un-Stuck, @JobHuntOrg

Mid-Year Check Up: The Full 360, @WalterAkana

5 Tips for Fighting Summer Job Search Blues, @KCCareerCoach

Are you positive about your job search? @DawnBugni

Where Are The Jobs? @MartinBuckland, @EliteResumes

Mid-Year Job-Search Checkup: Get Your Juices Flowing, @ValueIntoWords

When Was Your Last Career & Job Search Check Up? @expatcoachmegan

Is Summer A Job Search Momentum Killer? @TimsStrategy, #CareerCollective

Is It Time for Your Resume Checkup? @barbarasafani, #CareerCollective

Filed under Attitude, Career Collective. Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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How are you asking for help? – Part 2

16 July 2011, 9:59 am

Yesterday, I shared an email from a job seeker and offered some suggestions how he (you) can improve on responses to requests for assistance. The job seeker’s questions and concerns are common, so I’m sharing what I told him with you.

Here’s his original email:

“I am currently unemployed and for the past few months I have been trying to present better ways to get my resume points of view across to recruiters. I have been trying to co-mingle value based information and actual job duties that I have done. When I do that it seems to create sort of a “laundry list” of my duties and I am trying to stay away from that, but I want to at least show some type of duties that i have. Could you please send me some pointers and advice. Thank You.”

And here’s how I responded:  (Just so you know … I did address him by name. :))

Dear Job Seeker:

Target. Focus. Differentiation is paramount in this market. A resume has morphed into a sales and marketing document telling an employer what they want to know about you; not what you want to tell them. Target your message to your audience. Focus on their needs and tell what differentiates you from why/how you’re better than “any” other person applying for the position. The “laundry list” feel comes from not knowing what to tell them. Without focus, you try and tell them everything. And, without focus they don’t know how they’ll benefit by employing you.

Photo by deanmeyersnet via Flickr

Think about it … If you’re shopping for shoes and I’m telling you about hot dogs, I won’t have your attention long. If you tell a potential employer about X skill set and they’re looking for Y … you won’t have their attention long.

A potential employer will not try and figure out how you fit into their organization. You have to tell them. You tell them, by researching job posting and identifying what your “buyer” is “buying”. What skills do they value? You then create a solid demonstration of those skills. Anything that doesn’t pertain to what they need is clutter.

Objective statements, stating what you “need” went the way of the dinosaur. It’s not about what you need (seek, want to secure ….) It’s about what you bring. In this market, the focus is on the employer. Employers really don’t care what you seek or want; their focus is on what you can do to impact their organization’s bottom line.

I do hope you’re networking, both virtually through social media and in-person though professional organizations, community events and volunteer work. And that you can be found online and your online presence is clean. If you are solely dependent on recruiter interactions, you should know only 3% of hiring is done through professional recruiters. They are a valuable tool in a job seekers tool belt, but it takes more than a hammer to build a house. It takes a variety of approaches to execute a successful job search.

I write a job search blog and I link to lots of other professionals through my site, as well as blog with an international group of writers every month. If you want to go it alone, there is plenty of GOOD teaching material and information linked from my website. (Blue Sky Resume has a fr*e downloadable tutorial.)

If you have the funds available to invest in your future, then engaging with a career professional is the best thing you can do for yourself. (Personally, I’d rather see job seekers spend the time networking, making connections and researching companies than learning about how to write a resume. The return on the investment, both monetarily and time wise is exponential!)

And one final thing, if you’ll indulge me … If you’re asking for assistance, personalizing the salutation and signing with your full name and contact information goes a long way in engaging someone and encouraging them to want to help you.

I wish you well in your search. If you’d like to work with me, I’d be happy to speak with you. If that’s not an option, I encourage you to take advantage of the information I provide on my website.

Best regards,
Dawn

This young man was a willing student. He replied back to my email, used my name, thanked me and signed with his full name and telephone number. YAY! Taking the time to say thank you was a nice touch too. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve crafted a thoughtful responses to requests like this and never hear from the “stranger emailer” again.

Bottom line, remember your manners. Please, thank you and a little flattery in between are powerful motivators. Use them with abandon – in job search AND in life.

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How are you asking for help?

15 July 2011, 3:30 pm

I received the following via email a few Fridays ago:

“Good Afternoon,

I am currently unemployed and for the past few months I have been trying to present better ways to get my resume points of view across to recruiters. I have been trying to co-mingle value based information and actual job duties that I have done. When I do that it seems to create sort of a “laundry list” of my duties and I am trying to stay away from that, but I want to at least show some type of duties that i have. Could you please send me some pointers and advice. Thank You.”

It was from an email address I did not recognize. There was no signature; just that paragraph. To find out who was trying to engage me, I had to open the resume, sent along as an attachment.

This looked like a “spam” email. I could tell it probably had been copied, pasted and sent to many, many others.* I hovered over the delete button, but the customer service in my soul kicked in and I responded back to him. I’d venture to guess I was in a minority.

Let’s pretend for a moment I didn’t respond. What could have been done to improve his response rate and build his network the right way?

  • Address the email to me.

Nothing is as melodious to someone as the sound of their own name. This individual went to all the trouble to find me. Four more typed letters would have made a big difference in getting my attention. If he’d just added “Dawn” after his “Good Afternoon” salutation, I’d of been less skeptical and more willing to respond.

  • Tell me how he found me.

To this day I have no idea how this person found his way to my inbox. Sure. I’ll pop up in a Google search, but was that it? Does he follow me on Twitter? Did he find me on LinkedIn? Had he been to my website? Is there a mutual connection somewhere? A quick, “Here’s how I know/found you.” goes a long way in forming a connection early.

  • Tell me why he came to me.

Flattery only works on two types of people: men and women. Had he taken a moment to mention how he enjoyed my tweets, learned from blog, had respect for my credentials, anything “nice”, it would have upped my desire to help a complete stranger.

  • Tell me his name and phone number.

He didn’t sign his email. Granted, it was on the attached resume, BUT I was very hesitant to open the attachment. To this day, I’m not sure why I trusted it. He was asking for assistance and “made” me go through extra steps to find: his name, contact information, career history. Don’t ask for help and make it a chore for me to help you.

  • Tell me what he wants to do next in his career.

He’s given me no clue as to what he wants to do next. His work history was scattered with diverse jobs from widely varying industries. He did nothing to help me help him. It’s not up to me to figure out what he (a complete stranger) wants to do next with his life. It’s “his job” to tell me. Make helping easy for the giver.

As you can read in his email, his approach is very I-centric. I am, I have, I want, I do – in fact, “I” appears seven times in those four sentences. What have I said about a bajillion times time now? In this job market it’s “all about them – the hiring authority.” (I made the five bullet points “all about me” to illustrate that point.)

If he uses this tact and tone to engage potential employers, it’s no wonder his search is foundering. His message is not what he brings; the focus is on what he needs. That might work with mom, but asking complete strangers for help (or employment) without giving them a reason to want to engage will encourage them to ignore the request completely or move on to someone to else quickly.

Tomorrow, I’ll post my full response to him.

*At least he did one thing right. He sent the email to me and me alone. I’ve gotten request of this nature with a LONG string of other email address included in the “to” box. Didn’t I feel special? I’ve also received BCC emails – to and from the same person. Those individuals had the savvy to protect recipients contact info, but the approach still begs the “Didn’t I feel special?” question. If you’re asking for help, you want the person you’re asking to feel special. We’re human. We like the occasional warm-fuzzy. 🙂

Filed under Communicaton, Job Search. Tagged , , ,
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Social media: So what’s the point?

14 June 2011, 12:50 pm

Career Collective post: Once a month, a group of career professionals blog on a subject topical and timely for a job seeker. We’ll post our thoughts on our own blog and link to the post of our colleagues on the same topic.

This month’s topic: Social media – how to use it in a job search, how to get started, do’s and don’ts.

Responses from others contributors linked at the end. Follow the hashtag #CareerCollective on Twitter.

via Flickr by Rodriago

I don’t know about you, but part of my ability to learn new things comes through understanding the “why” behind a given task or project. I better visualize the steps needed to reach the goal when I know why I’m doing something. I want to understand the end benefit. My personal need leads me to share with you the whys behind why you want (dare I say, need) to incorporate social media into your job search and career growth strategy.

So, you’ve set up your LinkedIn profile. You’ve sent your first tweet through Twitter. You’ve cleaned up your Facebook page. You’ve identified blogs relevant to your industry. You’ve found places like-minded professionals congregate on the web. You’ve personalized LinkedIn invitations. You’ve dipped your toe in the vast social media ocean and now … you sit back and wonder what’s the point of it all?

If you want in-depth information about social media and how it relates to your job search and your career, I cannot recommend strongly enough Miriam Salpeter’s (one of the Career Collective founders) book, Social Networking for Career Success and The Twitter Job Search Guide by Susan Whitcomb, Chandlee Bryan and Deb Dib. (Full disclosure: I made small contributions to both books, but even if I weren’t part of them, I’d still recommend them.) They’re written by and collected from career industry leaders and the collective wisdom leaves no stone unturned when it comes to social media. Both books share Twitter handles and other contact information from the contributors for ongoing career education. Reading all the posts in this month’s Career Collective will support that education too. (I know I’ll learn something new!)

via Flickr by checkrecordsdotcom

Well. You’ve friended, followed, linked and connected across the Internet. You’re commenting here, liking things there and RTing things over yonder. But remember, social media is a only tool used in building you network. It’s not the end goal. Building your network and forging relationships is. And as I’ve said repeatedly, networking isn’t asking someone you’ve not see in years, “Can you find me a job?” Networking is meeting individuals, in all parts of your life – personal and professional – and offering support to each other as you travel through life. Social media is a tool to start the process – an important tool in sustaining a deep, broad, far-reaching and eclectic network.

A mutual following on Twitter may lead to off-line direct messages (DMs) where you deepen the connection. The DM may lead to an exchange of email addresses encouraging longer conversations. Those emails could lead to phone conversations where real-time interaction offers an opportunity to exchange information. And, in some instances, casual connections cement into in-person camaraderie. But remember, clicking a button does not a friend make. As with anything worth having, it takes effort.

Rather than offer theory behind the whys of using this important tool, here are some personal examples (in no particular order) how social media helped expand my own network and strengthen my career. I’m a solopreneur. I spend the bulk of any workday alone in my home office. The one thing I missed (notice past tense) about being in a corporate setting was bouncing ideas and situations off colleagues; learning and formulating strategy from their wisdom. Social media connections have filled that void in ways I never imagined.

1. I received an email from a past client the other evening. I was 99% sure of the correct response, but needed affirmation. I opened Twitter, sent an “Are you there?” DM to a colleague (after “normal” business hours, mind you). I shared my concern and remedy idea with her. She offered some insight and voila. Problem solved, in consort with someone I did not know prior to meeting on Twitter.

2. My phone rang the other evening. It was a colleague I’d met through a professional organization (don’t forget their value when networking) and strengthened the relationship through Twitter. She wanted to look at the pros and cons of how to handle a business situation. We talked and both learned something through the exchange.

3. A friend of a friend friended me on Facebook (Say THAT three times fast. :)). We’d never met before. We both were starting to learn about and have an interest in social media and everything surrounding it. We shared emerging technology “finds” and a close, in-person friendship blossomed. Added bonus: She’s opened the door to many local acquaintances I probably would not have met otherwise, in turn, sending a little business my way.

4. A person I’ve not heard from in many years found me on LinkedIn. We’re slowly reviving our friendship and now, we’re both resources the other can use professionally.

5. I met a newspaper reporter several years ago when she wrote a feature article about me. (Still makes me smile.) I met her initially because I was volunteering (another great way to network) with an animal rescue group. We started out with an in-person relationship and now use social media and email to keep that relationship strong between lunches and business functions.

via Flickr by greentechmedia

6. I’ve been asked to contribute to career books, blog-talk-radio shows and teleseminars, multiple times, because of relationships springing from social media contact.

I know I could give 100 more examples, but you get the idea. You’ll notice none of these examples contained the word job search. Yet each of these newly-found, revived and sustained relationships enhanced my career and broadened my horizons – and vice versa for the connection. Now, were I to launch a job search, look at the resources I’ve already cultivated to support that search. We’ve had give-and-take along the way so there’s no “creepiness” in asking for help. By now, it’s an inherent part of the relationship. And it’s all due to incorporating social media into my networking.

Is social media the “only” way to conduct a job search and enhance your career? Absolutely NOT. But, as you can see, it is an effective method to nurture and grow your support network. Next time you’re sitting wondering “What’s the point?” Think about benefits all participants in social media networks garner from all these interactions. In this day and age, no one has to go it alone.

If you need more Twitter benefit examples, they’re here.

Here’s what my colleagues have to say:

Make Your Career More Social: Show Up and Engage, @WalterAkana,

You 2.0: The Brave New World of Social Media and Online Job Searches, @dawnrasmussen

How to Get a New Job Using Social Media, @DebraWheatman

Social Media: Choosing, Using, and Confusing, @ErinKennedyCPRW

How to Use Social Media in Your Job Search, @heatherhuhman

Updating: A Social Media Strategy For Job Search, @TimsStrategy

Your Career Needs Social Media – Get Started, @EliteResumes @MartinBuckland

We Get By With a Little Recs from Our Friends, @chandlee

Expat Careers & Social Media: Social Media is Potentially 6 Times more Influential than a CV or Resume, @expatcoachmegan

Social-Media Tools and Resources to Maximize Your Personalized Job Search, @KatCareerGal

Job Search and Social Media: A Collective Approach, @careersherpa

How Having Your Own Website Helps You, @keppie_careers

Social Media: So what’s the point?, @DawnBugni

Tools that change your world, @WorkWithIllness

HOW TO: Meet People IRL via LinkedIn, @AvidCareerist

Effective Web 2.0 Job Search: Top 5 Secrets, @resumeservice

Jumping Into the Social Media Sea @ValueIntoWords

Sink or Swim in Social Media, @KCCareerCoach

Social Media Primer for Job Seekers, @LaurieBerenson

Filed under Career Collective, Networking, Social Media. Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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Chuzzles, locks and roadblocks

7 June 2011, 11:04 pm

Ok. I admit it. I like to play Chuzzle. After a long day of ferreting out client information and formulating presentation strategies, I like mindless, no-thinking-involved entertainment. Chuzzle provides it.

Briefly, you match three (or more) of the same color fuzz balls by moving the columns up and down or left and right. They giggle, explode and accumulate points. New fuzz balls drop into place until you’ve exploded enough to move to the next level. I’m not sure if it’s the way the eyes move to follow the cursor as you play or if it’s the way they get all excited when they come close to another Chuzzle of the same color or if it’s anthropomorphism of my own dust bunny collection (five dogs, three indoor cats … I KNOW dust bunnies.), but I like to play.

Levels one and two lull you into a false sense of security – easy, no-thinking game. Suddenly, on the third level, a lock soars in from out of nowhere preventing any movement of the row. As the levels increase, so does the frequency of the locks. Freeing the poor, imprisoned Chuzzle requires matching it in groups of three (same as the unlocked one), but is more difficult since you can’t move the row.

When I first started playing and the locks came swooping in, I put all my energy into freeing that one Chuzzle, ignoring the rest of board. That led to more locks and eventually, the dreaded “no more moves” message. I never advanced past single digit levels. Ack. One night, I tried a different strategy. I kept focus on the entire board, paying attention to the lock, but not fixating on it. Know what? When I changed my focus to the big picture, the game changed. Moving a row on the other side of the board frequently exploded the lock with little effort. Wow. What a great lesson for job seekers …  (Stop applauding. You know I always get to a job search point eventually.)

Frequently I see job seekers throwing up their own roadblocks. They’ve done phenomenal things for employers or the community yet they fixate on one (limiting) facet of their career history or the job search market and ignore the big picture.

* I’m too old.
* I don’t have a degree.
* I can’t job search in the summer; interns take all the jobs. (Heard that one last week!!)
* I can’t job search during the holidays; no one hires then.
* I’ve been with the same company for 20 years. That’s bad, right?
* I’ve had a string of short-term positions. That’s not good, right?
* I worked for my family’s business. (Work is work and skills are skills.)
* I have a gap in my work history.
* I’ve been a stay-at-home mom. I’m not marketable. (PUH-lease!!)

And on and on and on …

A few years ago, I worked with a man, who, partnered with his brother, started a manufacturing firm in the family garage. I spent 90+ minutes listening to his tale of taking a two-person, home-based operation and growing it into a multimillion dollar, multilocation business employing more than 100 people. He told of innovations and patents, exclusive product development and high profit margins. “WOW!” kept escaping from my lips …

For a multitude of reasons, he chose to leave the business and seek employment elsewhere. As we were wrapping up, he asked, almost timidly, “So. Am I marketable?” My jaw dropped. “Marketable??? Goodness. You’ve done such impressive things in your career, I’m ready to hire you and I don’t manufacture anything!” was my reply. He countered with, “Ya but, I only have a high school education. I never got a degree.” Ker-chung <–Sound of a Chuzzle lock flying in from nowhere. Rather than seeing the millions of dollars he earned, the hundreds of people he employed and the accomplishments he’d had during his career, he saw one limiting factor – his lack of a four-year degree.

That’s not to say his concern wasn’t valid. Lack of a degree can be an issue during a search, but putting time, energy and worry into addressing one short-comings and not focusing on value is a sure way to limit or lock down movement during a search. Rather than lament the lack, I convinced him to diminish it. “I may not have a bachelor’s degree from a formal institution, but as you can see by my sales figures, profit margins, patents and overall business success, I earned a doctorate-level education from the ‘School of Hard Knocks.’ I generated profit from my parent’s garage. Imagine what I can do for you.”  Boom! <– The sound of the Chuzzle lock exploding. He got it.

If job seekers make a lack of “whatever” an issue, they’ve erected their own roadblock; slammed on their own locks. Being aware of, but not focused on “whatever” brings a much more effective big-picture approach, frequently exploding the locks and eliminating the roadblock all together … with little effort.

Now, try and get to level 13 on Chuzzle. I have. (TMI?)

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The garden and the network

11 May 2011, 3:16 pm

I worked in the yard this past weekend. Truth be told, a well-manicured lawn and perfect landscaping hasn’t been a priority for many years. Combine five dogs and two growing businesses (up until 2009) with country living and no homeowners association to tell me weed whack and it got a little shaggy around the edges. I’ve learned; if you don’t’ get in control early in spring; forget it. The weeds win.

This year, I found a neighbor wanting to earn a little extra cash and willing to help get things under control. Looking at what he’s done, and what he’s inspired me to do, in the past six weeks, it appears the weeds may lose this year. (YAY!) Going through the process of trimming trees, cutting back overgrown gardens and weeding around neglected perennials made me think about how many times, when writing about networking, I say, “You have to nurture and cultivate your network.” Puttering about the yard brought to mind other career-long networking and gardening parallels.

Neglected doesn’t mean dead.
As we cut back weeds and thinned branches, I was struck by how many plants survived and even thrived on neglect. I was more amazed, how, after a little TLC, the previously neglected flora exploded into vigorous growth. These plants don’t need constant tending, but checking in occasionally will help them thrive.

While developing and expanding your personal and professional network, poke around. You’ll be surprised how many neglected relationships will spring back to life with a little attention. These relationships don’t need constant tending, but checking in occasionally will help them thrive. (Sound familiar?)

Forgotten doesn’t mean gone.
Digging around in a long-overgrown rose garden, my husband found our hippopotamus stepping stone. I’d forgotten about it. Horatio (doesn’t everyone name their stepping stones?) “lived” out in the field amongst the weeds forgotten, but still there. I was thrilled with our “find.” He now lives at the primary entrance to the house and makes me smile.

Digging around in old files, often uncovers past acquaintances; someone who might be wonderful support in your search or your career. Uncovering and reconnecting with forgotten pieces of your network is sure to make to you smile AND could be your stepping stone on the path to opportunity.

Sometimes gone is gone.
Surprised by what survived; I was still saddened by what I’d lost to neglect – antique irises, rosemary, rose bushes, a re-seeding bed of chives. They’re gone. I let them slip away. Best thing about a garden though, I can replant and start over how, when and if I choose.

The same holds true for networks. If you left network connections behind and attempts to revive are fruitless, know you can begin again with the next social media account, networking event or social gathering. Networks, like gardens change, grow, die down, come back with time. Cultivate accordingly.

Things change.
When my first husband and I moved here more than 20 years ago, getting up, gulping down a cup of coffee and spending weekends primping and pruning a huge yard (part of a 10-acre organic farm) was no big deal. This past weekend, after only a few hours of digging, weeding and hauling, I. thought. I. was. going. to. die. I adjusted my methodology, incorporated tools and accepted things change with time.

The tools available to job seekers and careerists today are different than they were a mere five years ago. Methodologies, markets and industry trends change. Assessing needs, adopting new technology and incorporating the old yields a deep and rich network. Successful gardeners and successful networkers adapt.

Now, pulling into a more cared for, nurtured yard is rewarding. It’s still a work in progress, but some input, some reconnecting, some attention is starting to transform things. Networking, when done correctly is a work in progress too. Add and cultivate network connections throughout your career. You never know who you can help or who can help you. In the end, the support and enjoyment far outweighs the effort. Oh, and don’t overlook the power of a partner in your quest.

Relax … networking, like gardening is really all about reconnecting with old friends.

Filed under Job Search, Networking. Tagged , ,
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Tips for times of transition: Part 4 – Practical tips for jobseekers

7 April 2011, 6:11 pm

Spring has sprung. Enjoy a change of scenery ... even it's only the front yard.

This post finalizes the series of tips for times of transition Bridget Haymond and I put together. Hopefully, you’ve been able to take a nugget or two and apply it your personal search for professional bliss. Understandably, a job search can be extremely stressful. When you get overwhelmed, it’s always a good idea to take approaches back to the basics. It never hurts to be reminded to breathe.

(Part one is here, two here and three here.)

Practical tips for jobseekers:

5. A change of scenery can bring a fresh perspective. It’s easy to feel trapped in the same four walls while you are between interviews or waiting for a call back. Go to a place that has free Wi-Fi and conduct your research and job search from a remote location.

Photo via Flickr by Geekadelphia

6. Take advantage of local library resources. Books, DVD’s and computers are all available for free. This is a great way to stay updated on current trends, engage in personal growth, and get motivational ideas or take advantage of the entertainment resources.

7. Allow yourself the freedom to simply have fun. Enjoy some funny movies, if you have a musical instrument play it, get together with some friends for an evening of a karaoke or a game night. Laughter is good for the soul so make room for some fun.

A long walk can do a world of wonders.

8. Get outside and get some fresh air. It doesn’t cost a thing to take your dog to the park, do some gardening or simply spend some time on the front porch sipping some lemonade. The vitamin D from the sun is great for lifting your spirits. The key is to get out and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation through nature.

9. Update your look. Try a new hairstyle. Try a new color. You don’t want to look dated during your search (yes, it matters), plus it’ll make you feel wonderful, confident and refreshed.

10. Find an accountability partner; someone who can help you maintain forward progress. Set weekly goals and have that individual gently, but firmly help you accomplish them.

Thanks for the opportunity Bridget and the great blog content too!

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Tips for times of transition: Part 3 – Practical tips for job seekers

5 April 2011, 10:01 am

Last week, we looked at career marketing strategies for job seekers. This week, we’ll look practical tips to help sustain focus during the search. Bridget Haymond put together most of the practical tips. I added a few and Voila! You’ve got great ideas to keep things moving forward.

This is part 3 of a 4 part series. (Part 1 here and Part 2 here.)

Practical tips for job seekers

1. Keep busy and get as much physical exercise as possible. Keeping fit physically is good for your general health and is a great way to de-stress and clear you head. If you don’t belong to a gym, walking, bike riding, running and swimming are all great ways to keep physically fit.

2. Use your down time to tackle projects you had been putting off or didn’t have time to do before. Re-organize a closet, clean out the garage or clear out a storage unit. You can then have a garage sale or donate items to charity. Either way you’ll feel a great sense of accomplishment.

3. Stay connected and don’t allow yourself to become isolated. Staying in touch with friends and family is important. If your close friends and family live out of state or out of the country, be sure to stay in touch by phone, e-mail or talk for free on your computer using a program called Skype.

4. Volunteer for one of your favorite charities or service organizations. Doing something for those who are less fortunate is a great way to keep a positive attitude and share your gifts and talents with others. This is also a great way to keep from being isolated.

5. A change of scenery can bring a fresh perspective. It’s easy to feel trapped in the same four walls while you are between interviews or waiting for a call back. Go to a place that has free Wi-Fi and conduct your research and job search from a remote location.

Stay tuned for the final five tips later this week …

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