I am embarrassed to see that my last post on this blog was March 13th. But I have been quite busy with completing one contract, being unemployed, networking, searching, packing and then moving to another city! I am about to embark on an adventure as an employee with a professional services firm continuing to specialize in Organizational Development and specifically Change Management.
Looking back on the past two months there are a couple of things that stand out:
Looking back on the past two months there are a couple of things that stand out:
- Personal Branding - I approached this like a rock star (literally). I thought about what are all the elements that come into branding a celebrity. I ensured that all information online was up to date and professionally aligned and then made sure that my resume 'sold' me to my intended audiance. We are scrutinized on our online presence... what does a Google search say about you?
- Direction Clarity - I decided that it wasn't as important what industry I landed in, but more of what I wanted to do and what kind of organization that I wanted to do it with. What are your next steps? Do you want to work for an international organization or a start-up? What kind of job is next on your resume? What kind of support do you expect? All of these questions will allow you to target the right path.
- Networking - I think networking is something of an art! Most networking is simply a meeting (coffee/lunch/drinks/dinners/etc) where you discuss your direction and dreams. It is not asking someone for a job but more of a two way conversation between professionals who are open to helping each other out. Part of networking is leveraging connections with friends, family or even professional organizations. When you ask for advice instead of search for a job, you never know what will come up.
