Your job hunt is lasting longer than you thought? You know it’s a tough market, but you’re frustrated and looking for answers? Maybe it is time to “change up” your job search.

When I speak to clients about job search, I often suggest, “Talk to people you don’t think can help you.” Silence typically ensures…”People who CAN’T help?” Absolutely! You never know where the next lead may be or where an important piece of information may be lurking.

Talk to people who CAN’T help you with your search. Expand your net of networking contacts. You never know when a connector is in your midst – someone who takes pride in knowing a lot of people and introducing them to each other.

As part of my work, I keep a close eye on career and resume trends by reading books, blogs and keeping in touch with my advisory board of professionals in an array of industries.

When Iâ€m not writing resumes, coaching, blogging and reading, in the spirit of ”practice what you preach,” I also frequently meet people for “informational interviews.” I visit close-contact networking groups and seek out an array of networking opportunities.  It is amazing to me how our need for networking (as entrepreneurs and as job seekers) has spawned a whole industry of people for whom networking is actually their business!

Iâ€ve been to coffee with real estate professionals, a dentist, investment advisors, life coaches, travel professionals, vitamin sales people, photographers and a salesperson trainer, just to name a few.  It never ceases to amaze me how much we have to share with each other, and the possible “touch points” between our businesses or our networks.

Taking the time to meet these professionals offers me the opportunity to share information about my business, but more importantly, I have a chance to learn about programs, events and opportunities I might never have considered.  I also try to share something that will help them and offer to be a resource.

In a recession, it is even more important to expand our circles when  job seeking.

Some lessons:

Never underestimate the possibility for really interesting common ground.  Some of the meetings Iâ€ve least felt like getting up at 6 a.m. to attend have been the most productive in terms of what Iâ€ve learned.

Open your eyes to the opportunities!  Seek out places to meet new people.  Join an organization, a new health club or take a class. Google “networking opportunities, (your city)” and see what comes up! Then, donâ€t just attend, be an active participant.

Just because someone isnâ€t in your field doesnâ€t mean they donâ€t have useful information for you.  (Or you for them.) Our lives intersect in so many points.  Think of someone you consider least likely to be able to share good information with you for your search. Meet for coffee. You may be surprised!

I challenge you to engage – ask questions…be able to explain who you are and what you do. Donâ€t underestimate the value of every connection.  Everyone knows someone who knows someone who knows something. Inserting yourself as part of the chain is a great step in the right direction!

picture by Phillie Casablanca

The post A new job search strategy appeared first on Keppie Careers.

One of the best networking strategies is to conduct many informational interviews. 

What is an informational interview?
This is just is a fancy way of saying a meeting with someone who may be able to share insights or information with you that could help in your job search.

• You seek out the contact and issue an invitation to meet.
• You conduct the interview.  You ask the questions to help you learn about your potential career or organization.
• You decide what you need to know and tap the hidden job market.
• You draw conclusions.
• This is NOT a job interview. 

Why do informational interviews?
Informational interviews are the best ways for you to learn about an organization and/or gain insight and expertise from a professional whose opinion you value.  Other benefits include:

• Everyone you meet becomes a  member of your network.
• Your job prospects multiply exponentially!
• You may discover jobs that are not publicly advertised.
• If you endear yourself to someone, they are likely to think of you if a job becomes available.  People like to help others, especially if they had a good connection.  The more strong connections you make, the more friends you have in your field.

Stay tuned for more about informational interviews!

www.keppiecareers.com
We advise, encourage, enlighten!

The post Networking Strategies – What is an Informational Interview? appeared first on Keppie Careers.