The Briefcase "Briefs" Job Search Newsletter - Issue #14

November 25, 2019

In this issue: One of my best hacks for doing targeted research, LinkedIn Strategy with Andy Foote, Building a personal brand, How to shift your interview into a dialogue and more…..

It's official. We are entering into the most unproductive corporate work days of the year. Because people are more distracted (hello, Black Friday!) and also taking their PTO days before they lose them, this time of year is perfect for slipping out of the office unnoticed for a quick networking meeting or closing the office door for a phone screening.

The holiday season is also a great time to reconnect with old colleagues and friends (remember: weak ties are extremely valuable in a job search!). Don't overlook Chamber of Commerce or trade association end of the year events. Beyond having good food--these events are often great opportunities to connect with industry decision makers.

Speaking of good food, I am headed to Georgia on Wednesday for Thanksgiving. Despite the fact that I can't remember the last time I cooked a casserole, I will spend 3 days gorging myself on Paula Dean inspired southern goodness. My favorite dish is my great grandmother's "Savannah Red Rice" recipe. It's not traditional Thanksgiving food, but it reminds me of her. What about you? What is your favorite dish?

Hope that you enjoy this month's newsletter.

As always, we are rooting for you.

Sarah

Strategic Job Search Marketing

It's no secret that LinkedIn is a great online platform for job seekers. With more than 20 million companies listed on the site and 14 million open jobs, it’s not surprising that 95% of recruiters regularly use LinkedIn. This article gives you insights into best practices and tips for job seekers.

Knowing how to build a personal brand can boost credibility, reputation, and exposure. Take a look at how to succeed.

Targeted Company Research

When you are conducting a strategic job search, LinkedIn is a valuable tool for researching target companies and target decision makers. Watch this video to learn one of my favorite job search hacks-- how to find just about anyone's e-mail address!

Thank you to my friend Joe Matar over at Brazen for letting me feature his page in my video.

The Key to Successful Networking Meetings

I’ve learned that most job seekers cringe a little when you mention the word “networking”.

They know the stats— that 70-80% of all jobs are gained through networking— yet it feels nebulous & it’s not as “measurable” as applying for jobs online.

Or is it?

How do you actually ensure a feeling of progress in your job search from these meetings? How do you know if they were “successful”?

First, the odds of you walking out of a networking meeting with a job is rare. It’s happened to plenty of people-- but don’t let that be your expectation. You will be disappointed if that’s your measure.

A networking meeting is a success if you:

1. Find out about a position that isn’t posted online but will be available in the future

2. Get a referral to someone else you should be talking to (always, always, always ask if there is anyone they recommend you talk to)

3. Discover some language you should be using in interviews that makes you a stronger candidate OR gather insight about what would make your resume stronger

4. Discover new career options that match your skills & interests

5. Meet with someone who believes in you. Who will advocate for you when they learn about opportunities, will send you emails to check in & who will make introduction

Interviews and Working with Recruiters

If you believe the hiring process is fair, linear, objective and logical, you may be in for a rude awakening. The current process is broken, and once job seekers learn the flaws, you'll be better equipped to proactively create a job search strategy that works!

When during the interview process do you start negotiating the job salary? How do you negotiate differently for public sector v. private sector jobs? Five common job search negotiation questions answered.

The company may have a job available, but is it really a job you want? Remember, interviews are not a one-way street. The biggest mistake I see job seekers make is that they do not ask questions to evaluate the job. 

New Data

Older workers have higher levels of financial fragility than in 2006, before the Great Recession. Millions of workers who are now nearing retirement lost jobs in the 2008-09 recession, saw their wages fall, and now face increased risk of repeated job loss.

The list of growing and declining skills suggests how to stay relevant in the new economy.

Closing Notes from Sarah

90% of Consumers Say Online Reviews Impact Buying Decisions

I've done a poor job of asking for client reviews. Some clients have taken it upon themselves to write a review of our work together, but I have not been proactive in seeking reviews online. If you have been a client and want to help me grow my brand, I'd be honored to have you write a review. Consumers read Google Business reviews, LinkedIn and Facebook most often.

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We hope that you found The Briefs newsletter thought provoking and applicable to your job search. Please feel free to forward it to your connections, invite your friends to sign up and SHARE on social media.

To be a great champion, you must believe you are the best. If you're not, pretend you are. —Muhammad Ali

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