Sit in the Sun
     Breathe
          Take the time you need.

#MondayMotivation 

Before you can begin to tell your story in an effective way, you need to understand your audience and decide on your focus.  This is true of business networking, job search networking, and job interviews.

Most of us, when left to our own devices, tell an unfocused story and don't lead the audience to the conclusion we would like them to reach.

Audience, Setting, and Goals

• Who is your audience?
• What is the setting?
• What are your goals for the conversation?

As these answers change, so should change the focus of the conversation. 

​#Networking #MondayMotivation

"But enough about me, let's talk about you … What do You think about me?"
~ CC Bloom, played by Bette Midler in "Beaches" 1988

When networking at events, do you think other people want to talk more about you or more about themselves?

(Not) surprisingly, people like to talk about themselves and are looking to do that at networking events. 

You don't need to overwhelm them with your accomplishments to impress them. You can impress them and create a strong rapport by showing a genuine interest in who they are, asking intelligent questions, and helping them connect with other people.

Additionally, networking is a conversation and not an interview. Ask a question, actively listen to the answer, comment on the answer, and ask for additional information.

You can help a shy person come out of their shell and direct the conversational stream of a talkative person.

To help connect with someone and increase rapport, here are a few questions to consider asking:

• How did you get started in this field?
• What are some interesting trends that you are noticing?
• How has the work changed? 
• How do you stay up-to-date in the field?
• If I wanted to learn more about ___, who would you recommend that I talk with?
• What do you enjoy most about your work/job? 
• What are some of your current frustrations/challenges?
• Which skills and personal characteristics have helped you be successful?
• What are some big challenges a career changer faces when entering this field/industry?
• What are the major ways technology is used across all functions in this industry? …in your company?

What are questions that you like to use when you meet a new person? Share your suggestions in the comments.

#Networking #NetworkingQuestions #ThursdayThoughts

​Professional networking is your ace up you sleeve when navigating your career.
 
To move past your current role, it is important to network with other professionals.

Through networking, you can:
 

• Learn new practices
• Identify trends
• Analyze vendors
• Benchmark initiatives
• Understand possible career paths
• Learn about other company cultures
• Discover new job openings

 
Even just a short time away from your day to day job can build your motivation and help you think about your work in new ways.
 
If you already are aware of professional networking opportunities, check the calendar for the next meetings.
 
If you don't know of professional networking opportunities in your area, ask colleagues. You can also review the LinkedIn profiles of industry colleagues to see which groups they belong to.

#Networking #MondayMotivation

​Throughout the job search process, demonstrate the strengths that you've told the employer you possess

Attention to detail is demonstrated by using a clean resume and cover letter format that have been checked for spelling, grammar and style.

Accuntability and punctuality are demonstrated by meeting an employer's deadlines and by responding to emails and phone calls in a timely manner.

Professionalism is shown by the content and manner of your online and offline communications.

Communications and marketing is conveyed by how well you target your message in the resume, cover letter, or interview. Are you able to quickly, clearly, and concisely deliver the most relevent message? This is an example of how well you will summarize a project's progress or recommendations.

Preparedness is conveyed when you show that you did your homework before the interview. Doing research on the company, understanding the position, and preparing your stories will show an employer how you would prepare for internal or client-facing meetings.