Hello

IF IT'S GOT TO BE, IT'S UP TO ME!

Presented at ENG on September 14, 2006

by Greg David (Laka)

Summarized by Jim Todd

Finding employment is within your control. In transition, you control your schedule.

What doesn’t work

• Sending resumes blindly to job boards and company web sites
• Follow-up calls “…just to keep my name in front of you.”
• Relying only/mainly on internet and search firms
  • 96% probability of > 12 months in transition if relying only on internet and recruiters

What works

• Plan tomorrow’s activities tonight
• Follow directions when sending your resume or applying
  • Resumes sent to a Principal may be auto-forwarded to spam folder
• Read one hour each day - positive attitude, professional relevance, job search
• Clarify and write down goals - spiritual, family, health, career, financial
• Avoid negative influences
• Career search is your top priority, not household chores
• Get out of the house
• Attend at least 3 events / week, be reachable and helpful
• Use a career coach
• Volunteer - do some good, expand your network, improve your attitude
• Speak at opportunities – colleges, chamber of commerce, church, schools, etc.
• Devote at least 60 hours per week to job search. Minimum.
• Track your contacts and activities
• Make hundreds of contacts each week – use targeted, intelligent mailings, events, introductions, past co-workers, volunteer work, etc.

Tips and hints

• Name resume files last,first_resume.doc – no variations, not zipped.
• Rewrite resume for each position
• Do not apply multiple times to same company or same search firm
• Use first.last@maildomain.com as email address - nothing cute
• Use key words, not jargon. Ensure correct spelling and grammar.
• Provide something of value when calling network contacts
• Put contact information signature block of every email
• Be enthusiastic

Example of building a relationship:

• Ask questions when meeting someone at an event. Trade cards.
• Send him an e-mail that night.
• Send him a (good) article every so often on common interest.
• Check upcoming events related to that topic
• Email him about upcoming event, “Will I see you there?”
• Meet again at the event
• Email “I have a predicament. I like being in business for myself but I miss working in a corporation. I see your company is hiring. My fear is if I apply to HR my resume won’t get noticed.” He will see resume gets noticed.

Greg David (Laka), President
Gregory Laka & Company
11 East Adams Street, Suite 1000
Chicago, IL 60603