Weekly Q&A 09.28.2018

Watch it here: https://youtu.be/4lYtdxJoQmQ 

CAREER OPTIONS

1. I want to find a new career, I am in sales and I hate it.  But I have no idea what I want to do, help!
   • Assessments like MBTI (see 16personalities.com)
   • Self Discovery like Interests, Motivation and Skills
2. Are jobs that don’t use computers dying out?  I’m an artist but still want to earn a living.  Am I going to have to learn graphic design?
   • No, think restoration.

 
 
NETWORKING

1. I’m registered for my very first networking event!  It is a dinner and speaker event.  How do I start a conversation, once I do what do I say?  I do have a job but I want to see what else is out there, so do I hand over my work business card?
   • http://www.saracurto.ca/careercoachblog/create-connections-the-networking-event
   • Just sit down at a table.  Introduce yourself.
   • Start talking by engaging in a conversation.
   • When talking with 1 individual, ask them questions.
   • Then deliver elevator pitch.
   • You can hand out your work business card as a way to get their business card but you can email them from your personal account.
   • Follow up is key.
2. Last month I went to a meet up and met some great people.  I had a job then but was just laid off so I never did follow up.  Is it okay to follow up now?  And what do I say?
   • It is never too late to follow up! 
   • Start with an open, like it was great to meet you at the event last week.  Update them on your situation.  Say you would love to get together for a coffee or a phone call to get to know them better or to get their advice.

 
LinkedIn and Social Media

1. I don’t have a LinkedIn profile.  I am now looking for a new job though with some management changes so I think I need a profile, right?  How do I create one and start looking for a new job without my manager getting suspicious.
   • Yes you do need one, LinkedIn is the number one business networking tool.
   • It is always harder when you are currently working but it is possible!
   • Follow these 7 steps to creating your LinkedIn profile making sure you have a good photo of just you, a compelling summary and up to date work experience.
   • Depending on manager relationship – tell them, connect with them (joke about finally getting in with the 21st century) or don’t tell them or connect with them.
   • Make sure you turn NOTIFATIONS OFF, so anytime you change something no one is notified.
2. Help!  I only have 52 connections and I know you mentioned that we should get to 500.  Is that even possible and how?
   • Follow these tips: http://www.saracurto.ca/careercoachblog/5-easy-steps-to-grow-your-linkedin-network
   • Connect with LIONs, use your 52 connections, Company Pages, Groups and Alumni, include it in your email signature.
3. How can I use Twitter to help me find a job?
   • http://www.saracurto.ca/careercoachblog/2-game-changing-ways-to-find-a-job
   • Create a personal brand that you showcase on Twitter – follow key and respected individuals, follow company pages and people within that company. 
   • Create great tweets that showcase your knowledge and talent.
   • Retweet and share great content that aligns with your personal brand.
   • Find jobs – follow accounts that post and share jobs.  If a company or a person tweets a job, engage on that tweet – comment that you applied.