Networking

Networking: What's Your 30-Second Resume?

Networking: What's Your 30-Second Resume?

What's your 30-second resume? Remember the adage about having an “elevator speech” or an “elevator pitch" when you're networking? Same concept here. Related:10 Tips For A Powerful Elevator Speech In today’s highly interwoven social networks, it’s very possible you will run into people with whom you may want to share your job search plans. Given your interaction is likely to take place on the “fly.” It’s a great idea to have a 30-second resume ready to go – and, by ready to go, I mean well-thought-out and well-articulated, but not so rote as to be awkward like you are reading from a script. With that in mind, the same “rules” of the job search apply:


  • Know what you want – it makes the conversation easier for both of you and makes it easier to help you. Focus is important here.
  • Be comfortable asking for help – most will help if they can and if you do not take advantage of their time, network, or generosity.
  • Use some quick examples to show you are qualified for the type of position you are seeking; but, don’t give an oral version of your resume: it’s too long and no one will remember it. Plus, you’ll have to talk really fast and might be misunderstood. Always show value.
  • No bad mouthing your current or past employer(s). No matter what.
  • No complaining nor whining. No matter what.
  • Don’t be desperate. Put your best foot forward, no matter how hard that may be to do.
  • Stay in touch.
By keeping these concepts in mind, you may find that your networking is far more effective. This post was originally published on an earlier date.

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