You might be surprised to learn why I really love what I do. Is it the writing? No - although I really enjoy writing and I’m quite good at it, so I’ve been told. Is it the people? No - although I love my clients; they are so interesting to learn about! Is it the freedom and flexibility of working for myself? No - although that is a very close second. So, what is it about being a resume writer and coach that is so great? It’s the teaching. I love educating people on how to get their next job. Whaaa? Yes. Teaching job search concepts to a struggling job seeker and seeing the light bulb go off above their head is exhilarating to me. Hearing them report back with positive results is the best. I love it so much, I would do it for free, were I independently wealthy. I do, a little bit, at my weekly Toastmasters meeting. I frequently give speeches about job search, LinkedIn, and resumes. But, on a day-to-day basis, I often have to stop myself from spending too much time giving away free advice. My kids like to have clothes on their back and food in their bellies. Most professionals are like me. They are working crazy hours, have families, and are trying to take care of their health, all at the same time. They have to think carefully about what they say “yes” to. When someone asks for a coffee date for an informational interview, the person they are asking isn't always inspired to give up their time. So, how can you increase the likelihood that a contact will say yes to an informational interview when there are only so many hours in the day? Think about the question your contact is most likely asking, “What’s in it for me?” Take these two scenarios that just happened to me, for example: The first is by far the easiest for me to handle. I received an e-mail from someone, asking for advice about setting up a resume business. She wants to work from home. Her questions are organized and easily answerable in about five minutes of my time. The second is definitely more time-consuming. After my last Toastmasters meeting, a couple asked me if I could go to coffee with them. They are new to the United States and the man is having trouble finding work. Which am I more eager to say yes to? I don’t usually have time for coffee dates (not because I’m the such an important person, but because my kids keep me hopping when I’m not working), but I agree to it. Why? Because they specifically want to treat me to Yemeni coffee. And I love coffee! I had mentioned that in the speech I had given that evening. So, how can you make sure you answer the question of what’s in it for your connections? (They may not be as easy as I am to please.) Here are some tips:
Everyone has heard of New Year's resolutions. You know, those promises we make to ourselves about things we'll do better in the year ahead. Sometimes these resolutions work, while other times we end up with gym memberships we never use! But have you ever heard of a career resolution? It's actually the same thing as a New Year's resolution, only career-focused.
However, with something as important as a career, you don't want to break these resolutions. That's why it's important to keep these goals manageable.
Here are four simple career resolutions that are easy to stick to and achieve.
Be Self-Aware Of Where You Stand In Your Career
BigstockBeing honest and self-aware of where you are in your career is the most important step in making strong career resolutions. If your career is going nowhere and you're unhappy, then it may be time to consider a career change, which will take you down a different path entirely.
But if you're happy and in good standing with your career, it's a lot easier to set goals for the year and build out a long-term career plan.
Find A Way To Grow Your Career
BigstockCareer growth is a very broad spectrum that means something different to everyone. It could be something as simple as improving on a weakness or building on a strength. It could also be learning a new skill or taking on additional responsibilities at work.
On a larger level, it could be seeking a promotion or moving into a leadership role.
Whatever the goal is, make sure it includes growing professionally. The worst thing you can do is stay the same! If you're not growing your career, you're dying—and becoming a lot less valuable to your employer. There are always ways to upskill!
Better Serve Your Professional Network
With current colleagues, former colleagues, and other professional acquaintances, you've probably built a solid professional network through the years. A strong professional network can come in handy if you lose your job or are looking to make a career change. However, you shouldn't just rely on your network when you're in need!
It's important to find ways to offer value to your network. This could include checking in with members of your network from time to time. Exchange messages on LinkedIn to see how they're doing or share relevant content of interest. If you can help someone in your network going through a career challenge, you should!
Maintaining a strong professional network is like an investment. If you want it to pay off, you have to put some time into it and be consistent.
Take Care Of Yourself
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Working on your career is hard work! It's okay to be selfish sometimes. Whether you're working to grow your career or looking for a new job, it's important to find balance.
Your family and health always come first, so make sure your career goals don't interfere with that. If you want to set aside time during the week to work on your career that's fine, but don't miss important family events or milestones.
Don't let your career goals get in the way of your health goals. Go to the gym, take a walk, or go for a jog. Balance is key to maintaining healthy career and life goals. Sometimes you just need to adjust that balance as you go.
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This article was originally published at an earlier date.