1. Words of Wisdom Look for Similarities
2. Article: 2011 Job Search Strategy
3. Upcoming Events: Networking Roundtables Jan.21, Feb. 4, 12-1:00PM
4. Skill Sharpening Services Interview Preparation Session

Look for Similarities

When interviewing look for similarities between what the employer wants and your background. If you lack the exact background or experience the hiring manager wants, draw attention to how what you do have is very much like what the employer needs.

2011 Job Search Strategy

If you are currently in the market for a job or are contemplating a move, January is a good time to take stock. It makes sense to identify those areas you have nailed down, as well as those needing your focused attention.

Respond “yes” or “no” to each statement to identify areas requiring improvement or action. 

Direction

• I have clarity about my career direction.
• I am comfortable selling my expertise.
• I am clear about the value I bring to an organization.

Marketing

• I have a compelling way of introducing myself that makes people want to know more.
• I have a résumé and other marketing materials that effectively sell my expertise.
• I have a team of enthusiastic references who support my job and career goals.   
• I have samples of my work ready for review.
• I have blocked time in my daily schedule to work on my job search/career goals.

Connecting

• I have identified my “ideal job” and share my vision with those I meet.
• I have a Top 10 list of ‘best fit” target companies.
• I maintain a list of people to whom I would like an introduction.
• I am open to planned and spontaneous opportunities to connect with others.
• I regularly meet with those in my network to explore, identify and cultivate opportunities.
• I have a mentor who supports me in achieving my career goals.

Interviewing

• I am at the top of my game and emotionally ready to interview.
• I easily share compelling examples of my on-the-job successes.
• I ask insightful needs-analysis questions that result in information about company strategy, direction and ongoing challenges. 
• I know my areas of expertise and am comfortable demonstrating them to potential employers.
• I easily deflect questions about compensation until I have established my value.

Negotiating and Achieving Success

• I know how to buy time while I evaluate a job offer.
• I am comfortable negotiating a compensation package.
• I am ready to deliver what I promise, and more.

Now that you know where you stand, here are some ideas for building the skills you need for success.

• If you lack clarity about your direction, take time to assess and identify your skills. Take a survey of your skills using one of the many instruments on the market or available in books — “Zen and the Art of Making a Living” by Laurence Boldt, SkillScan and the Self-Directed Search developed by John Holland are just a few that come to mind. Explore potential career options using “Cool Careers for Dummies,” or visit the O-Net Center online at http://online.onetcenter.org.
• If your job search challenge has to do with marketing yourself, create a 10-15 second commercial that identifies your expertise. Develop a focused accomplishment-based résumé that supports the direction you’ve chosen.

Talk with potential references and ask them to write a short statement about their experience working with you.  Create a business card and use it when networking.

• If you are having trouble connecting with others, try these ideas: Make a list of the people you know, then contact them for advice or suggestions (not a job). Set goals for meeting new people.  Identify the best places to meet others who have similar interests. And finally, consider asking someone who easily connects with others to mentor you in the finer points of networking.
• If you find you are uncomfortable with the interview process, take time to identify likely questions you’ll be asked. Before the interview, jot down a short list of needs analysis questions to ask. These are questions that demonstrate industry knowledge, as well as curiosity about the organization. Practice deflecting salary questions, identify any “tough” or uncomfortable interview questions and brainstorm ways to respond effectively.
• And, finally, if your challenge has to do with evaluating and negotiating offers, make sure you research the value your skills typically bring in the marketplace. Be ready to demonstrate what you can deliver by providing work-related examples, and pre-plan multiple negotiation strategies for achieving your compensation goals. 

The Networking Roundtables offer support, guidance and networking opportunities to individuals in job and career transition.

Fri. Jan 21, 2011 12-1:00

What's Luck Got to Do With It? $15

Fri. Feb. 4, 2011 12-1:00

Guest Speaker

Dr. MarthaElin Mountain, Ed.D., M.A., MFT

How to Take Charge of Your Emotional Well-Being During a Job Search

$15

1010 Cass Street, Ste. B5, Monterey, CA 93940

Register Now!

Limit 12

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