Rita Ashley, Career Coach. Field tested advice for executives.

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By admin, July 1, 2008 3:35 pm

WHAT DO YOU DO ONCE YOU HAVE THE NAME OF SOMEONE WHO CAN FURNISH LEADS?

Ah, the travails of Networking.  As an Executive in Job Search Mode, you know the importance of networking to find leads to jobs, establish champions to your cause and generate more introductions.  And now that you have names of people who can point you in the right direction, what do you say to them?

Many a tongue-tied Executive has wasted an important contact because they did not convey the right message.  “I am looking for a job, do you know who is hiring?” is not the right message. 

Let’s say you are introduced to an investor and your goal is a VP spot with an early stage company.  After the pleasantries, tell the individual what you need.  Your message can take many forms depending on your style, “How would you get in front of companies if you were me?” could work to get the conversation started.

But let’s back up.  If you want the person to respond with names of companies or people who have openings, give an example of the kinds of companies in which you’d be most interested.  “I like what I see about Cosmos because they have seasoned management with an excellent early stage company track record.  Perhaps you know others like Cosmos in need of a Technology Executive with experience bringing order into chaos.” 

You can see how asking for something definable may get the response you need.  Here are a few other possibilites: 

Who are the people I need to know to get introduced to Cosmos, Google and Maple? 

What are you seeing out there that could be a strong play for a tech exec with my background?

Who would you contact if you were looking for a job in the Wireless industry in town?

I like what I hear about ABC.  They appear to value their employees and promote from within.  Are there other companies like that for which you can provide introductions?

Brad Pitt introduced me to George Clooney who gave me excellent introductions to investors.  Do you know others who can provide similar introductions for the Angel community?

Get creative with your requests and always supply an example to guide the person on the exact deliverable.   You will find your time better spent and the person who referred you will feel they accomplished what you needed: A true win-win.

For detailed support for your search, purchase Job Search Debugged, Insider’s Guide to Job Search.  For highly targeted and personalized guidance with your job search, consider Job Search Coaching.

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By thejobcoach, May 9, 2008 5:58 pm

You know the majority of management positions are filled through referrals and you want people to recognize and remember you when they are chartered with finding top management. Invest in your occupational future now. Get to the right people and engage in a highly targeted job search when the time comes, make time now and change your lifestyle. Learn business networking beyond the typical social networking opportunities

Focus on Your Golf game. Join the most prestigious country club you can afford and spend time there. Consider the expense of membership an investment in your career. Bring your significant other, be part of the community. Participate in planning and organizing for hosted competitions. No need to debate the stereotypes of executives and golf. Just accept that many highly placed notables play golf. There is instant rapport and kinship among members and as long as folks know what you do when you don’t play golf, they will remember you the next time a position opens. Don’t solicit job leads. You will quickly become persona non grata at the clubhouse.

Do meet people at the nineteenth hole and encourage conversations. Don’t over indulge. Remember, you are conducting a “pre-interview.” Come prepared with interesting topics beyond, “How about those Seahawks.” Listen well, ask appropriate questions and leave them laughing. Keep business cards available but don’t push them. If you meet someone you like and want to know better, follow up in a week or so for lunch.

Volunteerism is so important to corporate America that each year many companies furlough chosen executives to work full time on behalf of various charities. Red Cross, United Way, American Cancer Society to name a few have a corporate presence and encourage senior executives to participate in outreach. Google 200 largest charities to discover who best suits your geographic needs and temperament. Get involved. Get known for something outside your profession and people from your profession will take notice.

It is easier to get known to Board Members or “C” level executives when the purpose is to discuss giving. Remember, you are building a Rolodex for the future, so don’t lose focus on the charitable mission.

Every city with cultural venues needs locals to support their fund raising activities. Many of the Museum and Symphony organizations are run by wealthy volunteers; volunteers with spouses and connections who can help in your quest. Don’t be shy about encouraging your significant other to join you as you spend quality time working the upcoming auction or black and white ball. The camaraderie built pursuing a shared mission often results in long term associations.

Wrestle some free time from your schedule to work with a children’s organization or sports team. Not only will you enjoy it, you may find kindred spirits who can introduce you to their network. All outreach is good outreach.

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