Blog: Lisa Schumacher

As I was locking up my car I noticed two things…there were  7 cars waiting for a spot...and 2 men standing there talking, leaning against 2 cars…that’s 2 parking spots. I asked,

“‘Did you guys just get done hiking?"   The reply was "Yes”.  I replied “Did you notice there are 7 cars waiting for a spot?”

Now maybe the conversation was important or serious, but by the way one guy casually looked at me, glanced at the row of cars, shrugged and grinned as he replied “Well there are other parking lots”- I’m guessing it was chit chat.

Ok the point...As I was hiking up the mountain I had an AHA moment!  We are facing tough economic times and in these times people tend to have different attitudes. The guy in the parking lot appeared to have the attitude of “SO- I’m fine why I should care about others”

Or...We can have the view that "We are all in this together."  We as a society are interdependent on each other.

I work for a talent management company in the career transition side of the business.  Every day I work with people who have lost their jobs and are looking for their next position.

I am happy, proud, delighted (you get the idea) to say that I see the attitude of “We are all in this together “99.9 percent of the time.

What is so awesome about this is while you are giving you also get. Research has shown that if you are feeling down a sure fire way to uplift your mood is to help others.  I teach Networking classes and one of the first and most important tips is to go into networking with the goal of helping others.

This attitude of giving and collaboration has produced great results for the individuals I work with that are looking for the next position. They have taught each other about websites, shared their expertise, been a great resource for connections, found great networking groups, share Job leads, and are an excellent source of motivation.

 You know what they say in Networking- You never know who knows who.   

I also believe in Karma or in what you give comes back to you tenfold!  And remember doing good makes you feel good.  After all we are all in this together.

Current research has identified the following sources of where confidence comes from. They are:

Prior or previous success is one of the main determinants of self confidence. You may be saying- how can I have past success when I am looking for a job? Think back on your previous positions or education. Remember what you did well, any awards you have, when you have received praise or recognition for a job well done.

Verbal persuasion or also called positive feedback-that you can do it! We gain confidence from others encouragement. Practice your 30 second commercial with someone you trust and respect. Make sure the things you are saying to yourself are positive!

Mentally prepared- Remember when you would walk in to take a test and you had studied hard and knew the material? You knew you would get an A. Prepare for the Job Fair the same way. Find out what companies will be there and research them. Check the internet for articles on interviewing and read them. Know what you’re greatest accomplishments are and be ready to talk about them.

Physical self presentation- Wear something you are confident in- make sure it fits, your outfit is ironed and ready to go days before the job fair. Nothing is worse than rushing around looking for something to wear at the last minute. Then hold your head high, chin up, and look the recruiters in the eye when talking to them.

Social support- Talk with others who care for you and support your goals. Having great social support is one of the best buffers against stress. Join a job networking group-it’s a great place to share ideas, concerns, and job leads.

When you are well prepared you are relaxed and your confidence will shine through.

So get prepared and go for it!

Let’s start with what Networking is not:

Your neighbor Joe works at XYZ Company and it is going gangbusters with growth…so you walk over to Joe's house and say: “Joe I was recently downsized and I really need a job. Here is my resume could you give it to the hiring manger at your company?”

Joe says “Sure I’ll see what I can do”

The next week you see Joe at the grocery store, you walk up to Joe and say “Man Joe I really need a job, I’ve been waiting for a call.”

Joe replies “I’ll check on it”

What do you think happens the next time Joe sees you at the local coffee stop?

 That’s right….. Joe ducks around the nearest corner and hopes you didn’t see him.

The point in this instance is that you have put Joe in charge of finding you a Job. The ownership of that belongs to you.

So what is networking?  It is the process that involves meeting people, building relationships, requesting information and expanding your circle of contacts. Networking is activities you do every day. Attending professional trade or association meetings, volunteering, talking to your neighbors, friends, coaching sports- it is the simple art of talking to people. 

All along you have been building your network and now that they can help you- give them the chance.  Most people like to and are willing help. 

Two things to remember- 1) NOT everyone will be willing to help. Some people have a “no networking policy” and that is something that needs to be respected. 2.) Networking is built on trust.

The following is the short version of the Networking process

Make of list of all the people you know well enough that you are comfortable calling and having a conversation with. These are what is called an “A contact”. 

Prioritize your list and then PREPARE-PREPARE-PREPARE

Create a self-statement; this is also referred to as your“30 second commercial”.

An example is:

“I am in the process of a career transition and I am interested in gaining information about the Solar Energy field. Would you know of anyone in that industry that would be able to give me any advice?”

Maybe call your “Aunt Millie” first to practice and get feedback.

Take a deep breath and….make the call.

Get contact names and ask your ‘A” contact to also give this person a call with a heads up that you will be contacting them.

Call the contact and give some version of the below:

““Hi my name is Dan Smith, and Mary (your contact) suggested that I give you a call-do you have a few minutes?  Mary said that you would be a great person to talk to about the Solar Energy field. I am a Project Manager with experience in managing both large and small projects and I am interested in learning about the industry. Would you have a few minutes to meet?”

Your objective is to have face to face time.

Be sure to arrange a meeting time and place (be creative if necessary)

Confirm and express Thanks

You have completed the first step and you re now on your way to Networking!

Remember to have FUN and enjoy yourself in the process of Networking- it will show through in your actions.

Stayed tuned for future steps……