Tripping On The Ladder

 By Jennifer Cohen
 (c) February 25, 2010

So I was at the gym the other day and on the back of a shirt, I saw the phrase:

Running is a metaphor for life. You get out of it what you put into it.

Naturally I sped up on the treadmill and ran an extra mile…

So I started thinking how true that statement is and how it really does apply to everything we do. If we simply exist, we will exist. Things will happen, but nothing extraordinary if we aren’t doing anything extraordinary.

My feelings were solidified when I met a woman at a networking meeting the other day. The woman was laid off a few months ago and was starting a new job the following Monday. We made jokes about being unemployed and how we went through a lot of the same troubles. We both went through the motivated stage, then the disappointment phase, and then got right back into the motivation (those phases–shaped like a dip–seem to be more common then you’d think).

We also spoke about how she was able to make looking for a job like a job. She spent at least 8 hours a day doing research, creating a marketing piece for herself, sending resumes and attending networking meetings. In addition, she spent some time volunteering and joined a few industry associations, in which she become a board member. These efforts helped her meet people, work on her skills and, ultimately, land a job opportunity.

I guess sometimes we prevent ourselves from putting out the effort because we can’t identify the rewards or don’t think they are possible…but really, they will never be possible if you don’t try, and if you don’t try your absolute hardest. So why not? Why not try just a little harder and put a little more into it? You might be surprised with how much more will come out of it!

“Fired…Four Times” is a monthly column written by 20-something Jennifer Cohen, chronicling her experiences being fired, four times, and ultimately reinventing herself in a new and successful career as a marketing and social media consultant.

By Linda Lande
(c) January 28, 2010

Today’s economy has plenty of people searching for new employment. But could you inadvertantly be getting in the way of your own job search success?

If you’re falling flat with job applications or interviews,  it might be because you’re falling into these common trip-ups.

In Tuesday’s edition of “The Daily Rung,” we shared some of the most frequent pitfalls that happen before an interview that will clearly work against you. Today, we focus on common trip-ups during the interview.

Part 2. Day of the Interview

Are you making any of these common mistakes during a job interview?

Mistake: Putting on the glitz and the glamour.

Quick Fix: First impressions make a difference. For women, Stacey Stratton, principal and executive recruiter of  True Talent Group, recommends being as “plain Jane as you can while still being classy.” This means wearing a basic, dark pantsuit or skirt suit (no shorter than 2 inches above the knee), shoes that cover your toes, and understated jewelry and makeup.

“Go for the sophisticated, but modest look,” recommends Marni Hockenberg, principal and executive recruiter with Hockenberg Search. “Nothing about your appearance should be distracting.”

Men should wear a dark well-fitting suit, an understated tie, a white or light-colored shirt, matching socks and polished shoes. A sport coat with nice slacks, shirt and tie also are acceptable. “Make sure your suit fits well,” says Hockenberg. “If you’ve gained or lost weight, then invest in a suit that fits the new you or tailor your existing suit. And get a fresh  haircut. ”

Hockenberg and Stratton also recommend:

• Not wearing big or dangly earrings.
• Keeping tattoos covered.
• Not wearing perfume or cologne.
• Popping a breath mint. Bad breath not only is distracting, it’s unpleasant.
• Removing the jewelry from piercings, other than one or two in your ears.
• Placing a towel over your shoulders if you brush your hair beforehand so dandruff isn’t visible on your jacket.

Just remember, “nothing distracting,” says Hockenberg.

Mistake: Showing up late—and not  bothering to call.
It’s not like calling is going to get you there any quicker, right?

Quick Fix: Basic common courtesy dictates a pre-appointment notice if you’re running late. “Showing up late is more than just one strike against you,” says Stratton. Consider programming the contact number into your cell phone—that way, you’re sure to have it readily available, if necessary.

It’s generally recommended that you arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your appointment. Allow more time if you’re asked to complete paperwork beforehand.

Mistake: Chewing gum during the interview.
You might want to even blow a bubble or two—especially if your gum is florescent pink or green! Many employers want people who can multi-task. What better way to show them than by talking and chewing gum at the same time!

Quick Fix: No gum. Toss it out before you walk in the door.

Mistake: Leave your cell phone on during the interview.
You don’t want to miss a call for another interview. Besides, a ringing phone means that you’re in demand.

Quick Fix: “Turn it off,” says Stratton. “Don’t even leave it on vibrate. Focus.”

Mistake: Talking a lot.
They want to know all about you, so let them have it!

Quick Fix: “Remember,” says Marni, “the ‘i’ in “interview doesn’t mean that it’s all about you. Listen—and answer questions in a way that lets them know you understand their business.”

Mistake: Not asking any questions.
If you researched the company online, what questions could you have?

Quick Fix: “It’s important to have a few questions for your potential employer,” says Hockenberg, “but don’t ask questions that you easily could have found online, and don’t squander your opportunity by asking generic questions.”

Ask closing questions, such as:

• “Is there a particular part of my background and experience that helped you decide to interview me?
• “In my current role, I’m responsible for activities such as… What part of this experience would you find most valuable to you?
• “I tend to learn new technologies quickly, where do you see a need for that skill in this position?

“This is an opportunity for you to highlight your skills and experience again,” says Hockenberg. “Let them know exactly what you want them to be sure to know about you. Set yourself apart from the competition. Remind them about why they want to hire you.”

Mistake: Letting your mind wander—it lets them know there is more to your life than your job.

Quick Fix: “If you interview with one foot on the gas and one on the brake, the interviewer will sense it,” says Hockenberg. “Interview to get the offer. If it turns out that it’s really not the right job for you, then you can turn it down later.

“Be present. Be energetic. Be focused. Be interested. Be passionate about the job and the company—and be ready to explain why.”

 Posted by Linda Lande
 (c) January 26, 2010

Today’s economy has plenty of people searching for new employment. But could you inadvertantly be getting in the way of your own job search success?

If you’re falling flat with job applications or interviews,  it might be because you’re falling into these common trip-ups.

 In today’s segment (Part I), we show you some of the most frequent pitfalls that happen before an interview that will clearly work against you.

Part 1. Before the Interview

Are you making any of these trip-ups?

Sending the exact same cover letter and resume to each potential employer.
If XYZ Corporation receives materials saying that you’re looking forward to becoming an employee of ABC Corporation, it’s guaranteed that your resume will be deposited quickly in the trash.

“Your materials should be customized for each job application,” says Stacey Stratton, president and executive recruiter for True Talent Group. That means addressing your cover letter to a specific person (when possible), mentioning the company’s name a couple times in the main text, telling them how your skills and personality will benefit their organization, and briefly explaining why you’re interested in the position.

Keeping your humorous phone message.
You want them to know that you’re light-hearted and fun, right?

“Make sure that the phone you direct potential employers to has a clear, professional message,” says Stratton. “It’s the first time they’ll hear your voice—make it count.” 

Including spelling errors in your materials.
And if you really want to sink your ship, misspell people’s names—maybe even your own!

There really is no excuse for spelling errors—but don’t trust spell check alone! Read through your materials carefully to ensure that you are using the correct spelling and the right words.

Forgetting a couple items.
Employers like to know that employees can follow directions. So to ensure you don’t get the job, exclude a few of the items requested, such as work samples, forms, a list of references, or your salary history.

The job market is tough. Any means of weeding candidates will be used. Give potential employers what they ask for—in the way they ask for it.

Leaving inappropriate pictures and messages on Facebook and other online venues.
What’s the big deal? Work life and personal life are totally separate, right? 

“All employers Google potential candidates,” says Stratton. “You’ve got to be on your ‘A’ game. Clean up your online information.”

In fact, there are experts and services, such as Social Media 1-2-3 for Job Seekers, to help you audit, evaluate and shape your online presence  for maximum job search success.  

Failing to spend time preparing.
You know all about yourself—what’s there to prepare for? 

“While much of the interview is about you,” says Marni Hockenberg, principal and executive recruiter for Hockenberg Search, “potential employers also want to know that you’re sincerely interested in them. The ‘I’ in ‘interview,’ is not about you.”

Do your research. Visit the company’s Web site to learn about who they are, what they do, how they behave as a member of the business community. “Even more important,” says Hockenberg, “review the company’s mission, vision and goals—and then determine ways that you will help them meet those goals.” Know why you’re a good fit for the job.

“Come prepared to explain how you have helped other employers meet their business challenges—and explain how you’ll do the same for them,” Hockenberg says. “Know how you’ve benefited your previous employers.”

She also recommends taking at least three sets of printed resumes and references with you.

Stay tuned for Part II: During the Interview in Thursday’s installment of Tripping on the Ladder.  

 Guest Column By Marni Hockenberg
 (c) January 8, 2010

A job search can easily be put on the back burner during the holidays, especially if the search has lasted six months or longer.

It’s good to recharge yourself during the holidays to avoid job search burnout. But, like allowing yourself just one more holiday cookie, the temptation to play now and pay later can be dangerous. Moderation is the key.

Hopefully during this holiday season, you enjoyed your down time while also taking some simple and practical steps to jump-start your 2010 job search. But even if you didn’t, it’s not too late to boost your efforts now that the first days of the new year are upon us.

Reflect on your 2009 job search.
Write down five activities you did that successfully moved your job search in the right direction. Keep doing them in 2010. Then write down five activities that didn’t provide traction and discontinue them in 2010.

In other words, make a resolution to be intentional and use your time wisely.

Find an “Accountability Buddy.”
Job searching can be lonely—but with a buddy, you don’t need to be the Lone Ranger anymore. Write down and review your daily, weekly and monthly job search goals with your buddy. Ask him or her to hold you accountable. When you achieve your goals, your buddy can celebrate with you!

Flashcards will give your interview “flash”
Remember flashcards? I used them in school to learn math (where are they? I still need them!). Buy a pack and write down the tough interview questions that stump you.

Formulate your answers and ask your Accountability Buddy to participate in a mock interview with you. Rinse, repeat, rinse, repeat.

Preparation is key in a job interview! 

Attend job search educational workshops, forums and meetings.
Even if you learn one tip that will propel you toward achieving your goal, it will be worth your time.

For example, I’m offering an interactive Interview Workshop on January 12, 2010, titled “How The Hiring Game Is Really Played: Experienced Recruiter Reveals 9 Interview Secrets!” from 8:15-10:30 a.m. at the Ridgedale Library in Minnetonka, Minn. For those of you in the Twin Cities area who’d like to register, visit my Web site at www.hockenbergsearch.com/calendar. For those of you in other parts of the country, seek out workshops that will help you build your skills to become a more confident and prepared job-seeker.

No matter what you do, the simple steps you take now can pay dividends as the new year unfolds!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Guest columnist Marni Hockenberg is principal of Hockenberg Search, a professional and managerial recruiting firm based in Minnetonka, Minn. With more than two decades of recruiting and business consulting experience, Marni Hockenberg has a proven track record of providing focused, personalized search services to small- and medium-sized businesses to help them find, recruit and retain top-tier talent. 

 By Linda Lande
 (c) November 7, 2009

 No matter the type of face-to-face networking you choose, there are some basic tips to help ensure that you leave those you meet with a positive, lasting impression. 

Dress professionally—even if the event is casual.
This means polished shoes, pressed slacks and shirts, professionally styled and colored hair. For women, leave the short skirts and low-cut blouses at home. “Invest in one or two nice suits,” advises Marni Hockenberg, Executive Recruiter and Principal of Hockenberg Search in Minneapolis. “Keep accessories understated.”

Marni Hockenberg, Hockenberg Search

Practice!
Memorize your elevator speech, state your value and practice in front of a mirror.

Carry breath mints and watch what you eat.
Bad breath can be a real turn-off, along with food in your teeth.

Turn the conversation to the other person—and listen.
“Don’t monopolize the conversation or oversell yourself,” says Hockenberg. “People like to feel valued.” She recommends open-ended questions or statements, such as: “How did you get involved in that line of work?” or “Tell me about the biggest challenge you’re tackling right now.”

Leave your portfolio behind.
“It’s important to keep your right hand available for introductory handshakes,” says Hockenberg. If you have to juggle a few items in order to shake someone’s hand, you’ve already lost some of the positive, “first impression” magic.

Have business cards, a pen, and a notepad easily accessible.
“I carry a shoulder bag that has outside pockets,” says Hockenberg. “I keep my business cards in one pocket and those I collect in a pocket on the other side. That way I don’t confuse the two and start handing out other people’s business cards instead of my own.”

Make stand-up tables work for you.
Don’t be shy! Either invite yourself to join a table or grab a table and invite others to join you.

Have an exit plan.
“When you’re attending a networking event, it’s OK to excuse yourself from a conversation and move on,” says Hockenberg. Extend your hand and say something like: “It’s been nice meeting you, but I don’t want to monopolize your time.”

Follow up.
After a networking event, Hockenberg writes reminder notes and dates on the back of the business cards she collects and creates an Outlook/eimail contact with that same information, including a memory jogger. Then, within a few days, she sends emails to the people saying how she enjoyed meeting them. She also might invite them to remain in contact through LinkedIn.

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. It pays to practice and to dress and act professionally.

 Additional Resources:

Check out these sites and resources for more information:

• CareerNetworking101.com
• LinkedIn.com
• NetworkingForProfessionals.com
• SpeedNetworking.com

 In addition, many professional association Web sites also offer networking events.

 By Linda Lande
 (c) November 3, 2009 

By definition, “networking” means to exchange information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions. But what does networking in the professional arena really mean? Can it effectively boost your career or your business?

Or is it merely a social event where, occasionally, someone gets lucky and makes a connection that leads to a choice position? 

Networking offers you the opportunity to cast your “net” and make it “work” for you. But it takes action on your part—and preparation, too.

Successful networking goes way beyond walking into a room, grabbing a drink, and saying “hello” to a few people.

Marni Hockenberg, Executive Recruiter and Principal of Hockenberg Search, has more than two decades of recruiting and business consulting experience. She attends networking events with specific goals in mind, such as: 

• How many people she wants to meet.
• What clients she wants to connect with each other.
• The number of business cards she wants to distribute and collect.

You might be thinking, “Easy for her to say! Recruiting and consulting is her business.” But she believes it’s every career person’s business—even those who break out in a cold sweat at the mere mention of a social activity.

The good news is that networking has evolved dramatically in the past decade, and there probably is a format that’s just right for you. Here are a few descriptions of common networking configurations:

Light networking involves attending an event where a loosely connected group of people gathers for a social/cocktail hour. These are common at conventions or large chapter meetings of professional associations. The intention of the networking event is to afford people an opportunity to connect, but it’s not tightly targeted on a specific topic or helping people discover a direct avenue to their next career.

Targeted networking goes one step further when you choose to join local groups, such as the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, local chapters of professional organizations, community groups, and the like. Peruse the Web sites of these organizations to learn about upcoming events, online discussions or meetings, and other ways you can connect. (more…)

 By Diva Nikki
 (c) November 2, 2009

You’re at your company’s annual Christmas party. You’re standing next to the CEO at the chocolate fountain. It’s your chance to be more than just Employee No. TK421. It’s your chance to get visibility for the great project you’re working on.

And what do you say? “Gee, this chocolate is good, huh?”

Don’t. Let. That. Happen.

An elevator speech is a short, intriguing statement about yourself and what you do that could be cleverly quipped to a CEO in the time it would take to ride up an elevator with her. (Or to dip your marshmallow in the chocolate fountain at the Christmas party.) It’s your key to grabbing those key moments with managers or potential employers and turning them into opportunities for further conversation. It gets its name inspired by those unpredictable moments when you are in the elevator, caught with someone you would like to impress or get to know, and fall short on knowing just what to say—and then the opportunity goes wasted.

Guidelines for Creating an Elevator Speech

Although you will eventually want to commit your elevator speech to memory, many people find it helpful to first write down some notes to get started. When you do:

Emphasize results, not products or processes.
(Example: “I helped 300 families achieve the dream of homeownership last year.”)

Follow the KISS method: Keep it simple, Sweetie.
Strive for a message you can say quickly and easily without getting tongue tied.

Know your audience.
Tailor your message to the person with whom you’re talking. Use the WIIFT (What’s in it for them?) approach. Be future-focused—what does your audience want to achieve?

Make it conversational.
Avoid acronyms and industry jargon. If your mother wouldn’t understand it, neither would most people who need to hear your message.

Aim for repeatability.
Be sure it’s something you can bring out and use again and again. Practice it until you can say it , convincingly and authentically, by heart.

Five Simple Steps to Creating an Elevator Speech with Impact

 Answer these five questions, and you’ll have a great start to your elevator speech.

1. Who is your target? Can you list a specific name or group of people?

2. What problems does this person face? How can your skills, products or service solve their problems?

3. What feelings do those problems or challenges evoke in this person?

4. What results would they get from using your skills, products or services?

5. Refine your answers to these questions. Then refine them again.

Once you’ve come up with your refined list, craft it into a simple formula that you will easily say and remember—one leaves your audience intrigued and wanting more. (Example: “I work with/help [target audience] who want to [describe what your audience wants].”

Then, at next year’s Christmas party, deliver an elevator speech so intriguing that the CEO dribbles chocolate on his tie because he’s so interested in you that he stops paying attention to his marshmallow.

Additional Resources:

• Chris King, “How to Craft an Effective Elevator Speech,” Powerful Presentations
• Aileen Pincus, “The Perfect (Elevator) Pitch,” Business Week, June 18, 2007
• Katharine Hansen, PhD, “The Elevator Speech is the Swiss Army Knife of Job-Search Tools,” Quintessential Careers
• Katharine Hansen, PhD, “Elevator Speech Do’s and Don’ts,” Quintessential Careers
• Robert Pagliarini, “The Art of the Elevator Pitch,” Business Know-How

 By Diva Nikki
 (c) October 13, 2009

Are you looking for potential next steps in your career but are not quite sure what that next step should be?  Or maybe there’s a manager in your company that you think would be great to work for–or a company you’d really like to be part of–but there are currently no positions posted.

An informational interview could help you in any of these situations. Unlike an official job interview, an informational interview is about gathering and sharing information in a casual way. You gain information about a manager or position in which you might be interested.  And you share information about yourself that – hopefully – will interest them.

So how do you get an informational interview? 
It’s easier than you might think. Remember, you’re asking someone to talk about themselves and what they do–something most people relish the opportunity to do! Good managers also keep their eyes open for talent, so you’re helping them by sharing your information, too. (more…)