RETHINK YOUR JOB SEARCH

Most job seekers ask: "Where do I find a job?" This is a wrong question. The right one is: "How does the job find me?"

The traditional job search process means browsing job boards and sending out numerous applications. It's a reactive approach, often includes fierce competition, and focuses too much on titles. Another way is to become sought-after – hence the question, "How does the job find me?"

One of my favorite quotes comes from the late tenor Luciano Pavarotti:

"In opera, as with any performing art, to be in great demand and to command high fees, you must be good, of course, but you must also be famous. The two are different things."

How does a singer become famous? Timing and luck undoubtedly play a big part, but issues like talent development, branding, social media presence, and getting noticed by industry professionals help.

How about applying a somewhat similar approach to job search? Building your strategy on three factors: (1) branding, (2) networking, and (3) visibility.

Here are some very hands-on suggestions about what to do if you are at the beginning of your career and have to start from scratch:

(1) Personal branding

• Set up a LinkedIn profile with a professional photo and a compelling headline. Create a personal website using platforms like WordPress or Wix.
• Start a blog or YouTube channel focused on learning experiences and insights about your industry.
• Work on small projects and document these experiences in your portfolio.

(2) Strategic networking

• Join industry-specific LinkedIn groups, forums, and attend webinars.
• Contact industry professionals for informational interviews to learn about the field and get to know people.
• Participate in niche platforms and online events relevant to your field.

(3) Credible visibility

• Start small by speaking at local meetups or creating content for niche audiences to become a thought leader.
• Optimize LinkedIn and website with relevant keywords and regularly update with new content.
•  Ask for recommendations from professors, mentors, or peers.

You are more than welcome to add what you see relevant and build a framework of your own. These are just easy-to-start with suggestions.

The action steps are slightly different for a mid-career professional with a proven track record.

(1) Personal branding

• Update and refine your LinkedIn profile and personal website to reflect recent achievements and career milestones.
• Share advanced insights and thought leadership through articles, webinars, and guest posts.
• Create comprehensive case studies and success stories from past projects.

(2) Strategic Networking

• Take on leadership roles in industry associations and participate in high-level discussions.
• Network with industry leaders to stay updated and explore new opportunities.
• Use platforms like Clubhouse or industry-specific forums to host discussions and share expertise.

(3) Credible visibility

• Speak at major conferences and contribute to industry publications.
• Regularly update online profiles with recent achievements and ensure high search visibility.
• Collect and share testimonials from past clients, colleagues, and industry leaders.

If you are to start from scratch, you should focus on establishing a solid foundation. If you already have some recognition, you should focus on refining and enhancing the already established brand, sharpening your networks, and looking for high-profile engagements.

The old phrase says, "It's not what you know but who you know." This phrase is sometimes valid, but in most cases, a better word is "It's not what you know but who knows you – and how do they see you."

A final note: personal brand, networks, and visibility are all in vain if you cannot deliver exceptional quality. Therefore, talent development (skill acquisition and continuous learning and regeneration) is a sine qua non.

#CoachRisto

#CareerPerceptions

#rethink

#jobsearch