Make Sure Your Kids Are Ready For School

I know there is a lot going on...looking for a job, still having to go to work, revising your resume...all the while, your kid(s) are getting ready to start school. The good thing is that their going to school will free up some time for your job search. The bad thing is school starts right as finding a job becomes critical. Don't stress. I found a great website with some helpful tips on how to get organized for the pending school year (Back to School Preparation). Take a deep breath and know that everything will be OK...

Going Out On Your Own??

Contrary to popular belief, this is the perfect time to start your own business or do contract work. Rents are low and businesses are more prone to use contract staff because they don't have to pay them health insurance or invest in workman's comp/social security benefits...they are just cheaper in the long run. This is the time to start something new. For information on how to start your own LLC, read Josh's blog (JoshBruce). He has first-hand experience starting his own LLC and was nice enough to document the process. I know nothing about LLC's or doing contract work, but I suggest starting an LLC to keep all money separate from your personal money - keep it legal.

And this is just my personal thought...but after all the dust settles and the economy begins to heal, I am pretty sure contract workers are going to be a huge part of the workforce. Employers are going to be hesitant to hire FT workers, provide them with health care, and pay into their unemployment because for awhile, no one will really trust that the economy is truly healing itself. This "recession" (or whatever you chose to call it) has really taken a toll on the business owner and their trust in the "system". Hiring contract workers allows you to get the services you need without making a commitment to keeping that person employed. This will work for many industries.

From all the reports I have been hearing, this is a good time to start a "relevant" business...meaning something businesses may need on a contract basis. Josh's LLC is a publishing company, but a lot more than that. Companies will likely be subbing out work for services that Josh can provide, so this is a great time for him to go out on his own. Some other services include AutoCAD, IT services, Marketing, etc. If you have a large enough network to draw from and they can provide you with a large network of people...go out on your own!

Remember the basics of networking, this will be the key to your success. A great book for how to network to support your business is The 29% Solution. This book provides a 52-week plan on how to network to get your business going and keep it going. I haven't completed it, but so far I am impressed.

Good luck!!

What Do You Want To Hear About??

So for the last month, I have been rant/raving about the benefits of networking. I have offered random tips regarding searching for a job. Are there any topics that I haven't covered that you would like to know more about? Please provide suggestions or I will continue with my random subject matter. I have a couple more topics on my list to cover; however, my preference is to offer my "listeners" the option to make a request.

In the meantime, keep your chin up!!

Diversify Your Contacts

It's easy to get caught in a rut...hanging out with the same people, doing the same things. It's comfortable and that's OK. However when you are looking for a job, you need to mix things up a bit. Doing the same things with the same people...that needs to change!

I don't encourage blowing off your old friends...but now is the time to meet some new people, reconnect with some old people, and do things you haven't done in awhile or have always wanted to do...diversify your contacts. Whether you keep a handwritten list, a Rolodex, an outlook contact list or you rely on Facebook to keep you perpetually connected, look up some old friends. That's the easiest place to start. Reach out to someone you haven't spoken to in awhile. It's always nice to hear from someone you haven't heard from in awhile...try it! But you need to follow through. Meet at a familiar watering hole or restaurant. Go somewhere you used to go in the "old days". Reconnect and re-familiarize yourself with old friends.

Making new friends isn't always that easy. Where do you go to meet new friends? I would hit up my current friends. Recently an old friend of mine had a party that I attended. I did what all true networkers do, I brought one of my current friends. While I was there, I met someone that we just hit it off and now I have a new friend. So it worked out great!! I introduced a current friend to an old friend (that is a great icebreaker because they have good "material"...particularly with me!). Don't be shy about asking if you can bring a friend. If your friends are really friends, they won't mind more friends at the occasion, right?

Good luck in your quest to diversify your network...it's easy!!

How Many Days Are Left??

As we get closer to the day, I will resume the "countdown". I will refrain for a little while in hopes you forget where I was in the countdown and I don't look like I can't count!! But those of you who know me, know better.

Today's topic is Your Job Search is 24/7.

Let's start with your Facebook profile. If you have public profile (meaning anyone can see it) be assured potential employers are looking at your profile. So if you are playing Mafia Wars or gloating about how drunk you were last week...probably not a great idea. You can't control what "your people" say (and believe me, I have some people I wish I could sensor!!), but you can determine the message you want to send to those people viewing your profile. So if you are job searching, at least for the time being, keep the games and gaudy comments to a minimum so as not to offend anyone.

Regarding your LinkedIn profile, be sure everything on your profile matches your resume and everything has been spell checked. This is a strictly professional networking site and you want your daily comment (if you choose to post one) to represent that you are continuing your job search (in 140 characters or less). You want to appear professional, so make sure your picture is professional. I encourage posting a picture; however, others might not agree with that. Mine is generic (cropped from a group photo), but I think it captures who I am...I am smiling and you can't see wrinkles or really determine how old I am.

Your job search is 24/7...remember that. You are searching for a job every time you go to the grocery store, salon, church, or anywhere you might go throughout the course of a day. I am not saying you need to be dressed in a suit at all times, but be polite, smile, be open to conversation, and be prepared to talk about yourself. You never know when you might be in front of someone who could be your next job prospect. I am always amazed the information I find out about people when I stop to talk to someone...even my family.

...which brings me to another point. Most people, me included, think your family knows you best...probably not the case. We just take for granted that our family knows our skill set and what we do at our job. MAKE SURE your family can speak intelligently about what it is you do. They are your best sales people, but only if they know what it is you do. Honestly, whenever someone asks me what my brother does, I pause...."something with computers and gaming." Not very clear, is it? Good thing I am not trying to find him a job, right? He usually knows what I do though...good thing (but I'm not a rocket scientist!!).

You are sales people now...selling the hardest thing there is to sell - yourselves. I say that not because people find it very hard to see the good in themselves. Believe me, you are all THE BEST!! I have worked with you and know you have so much to offer some other firm. Write a list of your accomplishments and keep them with you, recite them, and then recite them to others. Those are the things that make you special and more deserving of a job than someone else. Ask your spouse, mom, best friend what your best qualities are and add them to the list. When people ask me what makes me so special, I tell them...I am not the smartest person, but I know a little about a lot of stuff. I catch on quick and I am enthusiastic about everything I do (OK...except filing, but I keep it fun!). I can't promise you that I will be the most detail oriented person, but I can promise you that I will be the most enthusiastic and helpful. No one can deny me that, right? Find those great qualities in yourself that you are comfortable talking about and keep them close. Those will be what SELL YOU! Oh...and have a little faith ;)

Day 23...Volunteer

Three weeks until we close...is that right? I can't be sure. My count may be a week off. For those who know me...it's about numbers - not real good with numbers! At any rate, time is winding down.

A big thank you to everyone who is reading my blog!!! I am truly flattered. Everyday someone comes by and asks me a question about the job search and lets me know that they have been reading my blog. I can't thank you enough. I hope it is helping.

I continue to stress the importance of networking. In particular, volunteer your time. If you have PTO you can use, volunteer one day a week with some organization you feel strongly about. Whether it be St. Mary's Food Bank or the Animal Rescue, volunteer your time. In encourage volunteering anyway, but this is an both an opportunity to network as well as add to your resume - all the while doing something good.

Many times organizations hire from their volunteer base. If you have some special skills that you can offer an organization (Habitat for Humanity may need some CAD work done or someone who can read plans??), let them know. Provide them first with help in the areas where they are requesting help, then "in your travels" let them know you have other skills that they may be able to utilize. This works particularly well for admin staff, accounting, marketing, and graphic design staff, but I certainly wouldn't limit it to those areas.

Volunteer with your church. I keep bringing up church because I am surprised that many people haven't tapped into that network. A friend of mine mentioned prayer cards. If you aren't super outgoing, submit a prayer card for CMX and the staff looking for jobs. Be sure the pastor knows who has submitted the card so if someone wants to help, you can be found. Volunteer your time with the church. If your church has any intentions of expanding or building other churches, volunteer your design services. Sure, it's great to be paid for your efforts, but doing something good is good for the soul. When you do good things, good things will happen to you.

For those of you who don't already know, thanks to the kindness of others and their networking abilities, I have a job. So as I write, I am proof that networking works. Now that we have LinkedIn and Facebook (which by the way, I heard over the weekend that the average age of FB users is 35-56!! It's for adults!), you don't have to "exchange" information. You can just say, "look me up on Facebook." If you or the other person doesn't have a Facebook profile, it will encourage you to get one and "stay connected."

So get networking...however you have to do it. Volunteering or going to church are good options, but there are many ways to network. Good luck!!

Day 26...Don't Let Time Get Away From You

As our time at CMX begins to come to a close, you might be overwhelmed with the information you have been provided to assist in your job search. Don't fret. Day 35 helps to organize much of the information until you can read through all of it.

If you attended the Phoenix Workforce Connection seminar, you will be familiar with the form Cheryl referred to as the Perfect Match. You can access an interactive version of that form at the following link (http://smccaleb.wordpress.com/2009/07/10/perfect-match-form/). This will help you tailor your resume.

If you haven't begun your search, you should not wait any longer. The search will not get any easier the longer you wait. Use the time that we have to search so that when CMX closes, you will have a job waiting for you.

Keep your spirits up because people are finding jobs. I would venture to say that about 30 people (or more) have something very close to finalized or already have a job. There are jobs out there...promise. I don't suggest sending out a bunch of resumes to companies where you don't know anyone. Your time is best spent working on developing new relationships and leveraging those relationships and your existing ones to find a job. Reconnect with people you haven't spoken to in a long time. Sit in a different section of church. Go to church if you haven't gone in awhile. Talk to people in line at the grocery store. Make conversations with people at get-togethers. There are plenty of opportunities to network.

I hear people say, "I don't know a lot of people." You don't have to KNOW a lot of people, you just need to talk to people and exchange information. Just because someone lives out of state doesn't mean they are not a viable networking source. I have heard the excuse, "People I know can't help me find a job." Don't be so sure of that? You don't know who they know (at least not everyone). And you definitely don't know who their network of people know.

When I suggest leveraging "your network" to find a job, that doesn't necessarily mean your immediate network. As I sit here today, my exterminator is spraying my home. I have "known" him for a few years. I asked him for his card and told him about my company closing and asked him to keep an ear to the ground for any potential job openings. He knows and talks to a lot of people...what can it hurt? We will connect via Facebook and he becomes part of my network of people I can leverage in the future.

And remember, the leveraging goes both ways. Of the 200+ people in my network on FB, someone may need the name of an exterminator, AC repair company, financial planning, Solar installation, furniture manufacturing, car repair, civil engineer, surveyor, etc. I can help them find that person and/or service from within my network. Networking gives a whole new meaning for "what comes around, goes around."

Keep on talking and listening and good things will come...

Day 28...Tailor Your Resume

Enough already about networking...what can you do to stand out of the crowd when applying for a job? One of the most important things you can do is tailor your resume. This means directly respond to the qualifications of the job for which you are applying.

It's best to explain this with a story...

Let's say I am applying for a position as a marketing coordinator at an architecture firm (this is position is posted on Indeed.com). The position requires the following qualifications...

• Excellent writing, editing and strategic thinking are fundamental skills necessary for the position


• Technical requirements include a strong background using graphic/page design (ie, InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, etc.) and information management (ie, Deltek Vision) programs


• Knowledge of MS Office (ie, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) is also required

It's important to make sure that your resume specifically points out the relevant experience you have in relation to the position. In the software section of my resume, I would make sure that all the software is listed and called out. In my job experience, I would make sure I use the same verbiage on my resume as the position I want. It's important to be that perfect match.

Many companies use software that searches your resumes for specific words. If that is the case, you want those words in your resume. Be sure to address all the qualifications so you will be the perfect fit for the position. Keep your chin up and good luck!

Job Fair

While I am not personally a fan of Job Fairs (I think they are a horrible waste of time), obviously there must be some value to them or they wouldn't have them all the time. There is a job fair being held in the West Valley on Tuesday, July 14, from 10a to 3p at the Glendale Civic Center. For more information go to www.jobfairs.azcentral.com. This is being advertised as an Engineering, Technology and Security Clearance Career Expo. Good luck!

More Helpful Articles

Rather than rant and rave about networking and all the other things I have been writing and rewriting about...how about something different? I have compiled a list of some interesting articles that I have found VERY HELPFUL information pertaining to searching for a job in these economic times. It is really just reinforcing and confirming information I have already provided. Some of the articles have hyperlinks to additional information which is also helpful. I spent quite a bit of time reading and clicking links to more information. Enjoy the reading!!

Six Job Search Tips for a Recession
Recession-Proof Job Search Tips
5 Job Search Tips_
Career Networking

Day 29...Time to Take Action

Cheryl, with Phoenix Workforce Connection (http://phoenix.gov/PHXWC), came into CMX today to explain what it is that the City offers in the way of helping displaced workers. I was pretty impressed with what she had to say. She was informative and confirmed a lot of what I have been writing about this past month (yes, it has been a month since my first post!!). Her most important message was DON'T PUT OFF THE INEVITABLE.

We know we are losing our jobs...we need to be looking and networking. Whether we have "something in the works" or are hopeful of a potential opportunity, we need to continue looking and networking until we have something finalized...until we are hired!

Networking opportunities are around us all the time! Start talking to people at the grocery store, at church, while you are picking up your kids from camp, and hopefully if you were out this weekend celebrating the Fourth of July, you were meeting new people and exchanging information...I was! You don't have to make the fact that you are looking for a job the topic of discussion. I like to hear about what people do...it's important to listen first. Maybe upon second meeting, you mention that you are looking for a job and ask if their company is hiring.

I suggest taking advantage of the services the Phoenix Workforce Connection offers. There are various workshops and networking opportunities. This is just another avenue to assist you in your job search. Many CMXans are beginning to land jobs. Just confirmation that there are jobs out there. So keep your chin up!!

Day 35...Where Do I Begin?

I have provided a hodge podge of disorganized information. I apologize for the disorganization and will attempt to break it down into some semblance of organization. I suggest doing things in the following order; however, do what feels right for you.

1. Update/create your resume. If you have never created a resume before, I have offered assistance. You can also contact a professional resume writing service (http://arizonaresume.com/). Whatever you decide, your job search cannot really begin until you have a resume.


2. Create your network presence. I suggest using both LinkedIn and Facebook. More information on this can be found on Day 45. A networking presence in this day and age is almost as important as your resume. Be sure your message is consistent with that on your resume and that your profile pictures are tasteful (I suggest being fully clothed - nice head shot...you would be surprised with some peoples' profile pictures)


3. Alert your networks by posting a short message (on your home/profile pages) that you are looking for work and the kind of work you are looking for. 140 characters or less.


4. Post your resume to the major job boards - Monster, Jobing, and Careerbuilder


5. Follow up on any personal leads (i.e., people who have said they will find out if their company is hiring)


6. Register with temporary agencies - more information on this can be found at Agency Links and Attachments.


7. Continue networking...I suggest reminding people via email, telephone, network connections, etc. at least once/twice per week. Remember, YOU are looking for a job. More information on this - Continue Networking


8. Attend networking events or events that will allow you to network - Valuable Links and Networking ideas for those in the technical fields may provide you with some ideas on how to personally network

So I have given a little order to your search, but use it as a guide...not gospel. I will be taking the weekend off to enjoy the holiday. I suggest some of you that have been diligent in your search do the same. For those who have yet to embark on your search, maybe this is the time to buckle down and focus. Whatever you do...let me know what I can do to help. Have a great weekend! Happy Fourth of July!

Do Your Research...and continue networking

Before you begin applying for jobs with companies, be sure to do your research. View their company website to make sure this is a company you would like work for. You can find out a lot about company philosophy and their managers/owners just by looking at their site.

Also, research LinkedIn's company profile. LinkedIn can also offer you a glimpse at who you might know at the company. If you know someone (or if you know someone who knows someone), that is where networking comes in. Here is how using LinkedIn works...do a search for the company (using the "Search Companies" pull down). When that company is listed, it will hopefully have a connection (either first or 2nd level) of who you know at the company. If you know someone, call that person and have them give you the name of who you should address the cover letter to. If you are comfortable, have them contact HR to get your resume referred to the Department/Manager of the job for which you are applying. You are much more likely to get an interview if you are referred from an employee.

Keep talking about your job search...keep networking. A great example of networking happened yesterday. Someone I know is applying for a position at Boeing. She doesn't know anyone at Boeing, but she knows me and I know someone at Boeing. So I made a phone call to the person I know to see what they could do in the way of getting her resume at least in some one's hands. Right now there are a lot of people applying for the positions posted. I made the phone call and today I was informed that the phone call was made and her resume will at least make it out of the pile of resumes and hopefully land her an interview.

Networking is essential. Rather than working tirelessly applying to companies where no one knows you, research those companies to see if you have any relationships (or if anyone in your network has relationships). I will send out a blast to my network on Facebook asking the question. On LinkedIn, you can just do a company search and it will let you know if you have anyone in your network that works for that company or if anyone in your network knows someone.

I hate to be repetitive, but after three weeks into the search, this is when our technique starts to slip. We feel bad about asking our friends repeatedly. Don't feel bad. They need reminders. If your friends aren't looking for work, they forget that we are, so it's important to continue to remind them. They will forgive you. And if they can help you in your search, they will feel great that they could help. Continue the dialogue...it can only help.

And regarding your LinkedIn profile, ask for recommendations. Prospective employers are looking at you because they can. Get your profile in order so employers will be impressed with what they see. Another important tip...make sure your resume is part of your profile and that the resume is up to date with the resume you are sending out. You don't want discrepancies in who you are either online or on your resume.

Don't get discouraged. I know a lot of you keep in touch with staff that was laid off earlier in the year (or even earlier) that may not have found employment yet. The difference between you and them is that they didn't have the support system in place that you do now. No one was offering to assist them with their resume (by the way...that is about a $300 expense if you use a service...take advantage of your friendly Marketing Department!!). They didn't have this blog to give them information about networking, etc. (I know the information is somewhat disorganized...I just type it out as it comes to me). They didn't have the moral support of an office full of people experiencing the same plight. While this is painful (like watching someone die), we are kind of lucky. We can talk through the anxiety, we can use the built-in network of our coworkers, and we can ask for help because we are all experiencing the same thing. So know that you have an advantage to those laid off earlier. Take advantage of the network and the assistance.

Oh...and the friendly Marketing Department knows a little about job searching because that is what we did for CMX...look for work, propose on potential projects, sell the company. I am here to assist you in your search!! Let me know what I can do to help. In the meantime...chin up! It's not as bad as everyone says it is...promise.

I Am No Expert

For those of you reading, you might be wondering, "what makes her think she is an expert on the subject of finding a job?" Just to let you know, I am no expert. What I do know is that two minds work better than one and the more eyes you have (meaning friends and family on the lookout), the better chance you have of finding that perfect job. I have a lot of friends that know a lot of people, as I am sure you do...why not put these relationships to work? I have worked in the staffing industry. This makes me knowledgeable on the subject. I also have been blessed with surrounding myself with great people - both at CMX and at lives before CMX.

My initial thought was since we are all in the same boat, we could work together to find employment and it seems to be working that way. As people find jobs, they are fielding the information out to everyone...that's GREAT! Keep up the sharing. If, while you are searching for jobs, you find something that you think someone else at CMX may be qualified to fill, send it out to them or send it to me and I will make sure it gets to the right person or groups of people (based on the skill set). Together we can help everyone find their new position.

Even after you have found your new position (especially after you have found your new position), keep in touch so we can work within our organizations to find opportunities for those who are still looking. This will be the key to finding the more specialized staff the perfect position.

Day 40...How about some great reading?

If you are bored of the whole job search (I recommend taking breaks from the tediousness often), I have provided some uplifting reading. Some is just anecdotal, others are spirit lifting, and others will help you find your way. I will admit, I am easily distracted, so stepping away from the job search has been easy. Bookmark this blog so you can come back to it again and again. Enjoy!!

The following articles are from the website A Success Experiment - an experiment two students are conducting on doing everything they can to make their life better. I have provided a link to specific articles, but browse the site, there is plenty to enjoy on this site!

• How to Succeed - Advice That You Won't Get From Harvard, Yale or Oxford - enforcing information I have already written about


• Value - How do you determine value? What do you value the most?


• Get Out of Your Own Way and Grow Your Business - for those of you starting your own business, this article is for you!!
  
  
  

Day 43 - There are Jobs Out There

The people who think there are no jobs out there probably AREN'T reading my blog...it's unfortunate; however, this blog is for you.

THERE ARE JOBS OUT THERE

I know of multiple efforts being pursued that WILL end up in employment. It might be next week or next month. Many of the jobs may not be posted on any job board. So you ask, "How do I know about them if they aren't posted anywhere?" --- NETWORK. I can't say this enough. Everyone knows someoene and that someone knows someone else. Some of you might be thinking...I am not of the generation that "gets" the whole social networking trend...then you will understand this >> Remember the Faberge' shampoo commercials that went something like this, "I love the Faberge' shampoo...so I told two friends...and so on...and so on...and so on." Same thing!! Only now, you have technology which allows us to tell (at the same time) 200 friends and they tell their 200 friends and so on, and so on, and you get the picture?

Jump on the social networking bandwagon. I am currently reading a lot about social media and networking and the general thought is that INACTION is worse than bad action. This means it's better to have a presence that sucks, rather than no presence at all. No presence not only says you are not aware of current trends and technology, but that you are not willing to try. We are now in competition with a much younger, more technically savvy group. You don't necessarily need to keep up (it changes so fast, no one is keeping up), but you need to be participating. It doesn't take a lot. If my mom can have her own FB page, so can you.


HOW DO YOU FIND THE JOBS THAT DON'T EXIST?

There are a number of ways to go about this. I will share with you some tactics I use...

1. You contact your network and let them know THAT you are looking and WHAT you are looking for. Be persistent, be specific. You might be addressing a crowd that has no idea what CAD Techs or Civil engineers do. Ask them to talk to their HR Directors, Managers, etc. Sometimes a company doesn't know they NEED something until someone tells them they do or reminds them of what they don't have. This is the position that exists, but they don't know it.
2. If you are not afraid to talk to people yourself, START TALKING. Tell people what you do. When I say tell them what you do, be broad. Don't limit your skills to those of a CAD Tech, Land Planner, Engineer, etc. - we all have WAY more skills than we use in our every day job. This may just be the opportunity to start a new career...don't be scared...new is good!!
3. I was IMing (Instant Messaging) with a friend last night about what she does...her title is a Land Planner and she is worried she might need to start looking for employment. Her company has been laying off staff in substantial chunks...she is already preparing to look for another job (I admire that in someone...foresight...). I asked her what planners do and she informed me of quite a few options. Planners are excellent writers, communicators, and know a lot about regulations and policy forming. Suggestions - ULI, Sonoran Institute...Think out of the box.
4. If you find a job that you want to apply for, use LinkedIn (first) and Facebook (second) to see if you know anyone at the company. If you do, have them talk to someone (HR, Director) to let them know you are interested in the position. If you don't, use the list to find the name of someone to whom to address your cover letter.
5. Create the perfect job for yourself and then go out and sell it (on a contract basis to see if it's going to fly). If there is something you want to do and think that there is a need for it in the business world...GO FOR IT!! Offer these services to anyone you talk to. Eventually, if your idea is clearly communicated and there is a need, someone will bite.

Good luck and keep your chin up.

Hints and Links for the Engineers and Technical staff

I am not an engineer...but you all know that! So, because what you do is so specialized, networking is very important. Start with your clients...the people you coordinate with on a daily basis and if you have projects ongoing, ask them where they will take the project after CMX. An option may be for you to go to work for whatever firm will be taking over the project. It will cost that firm less money to have someone on staff (or even on contract...that's always an option) to answer any questions. Hopefully I am stating the obvious there.

I have also run across a few other options for the engineers. Depending on your networking skills, join an organization where you can network. Many of you are members of ASCE...become active. Call the Chapter and ask if you can get on any committees, volunteer your time. This is time chalked up to the "job search". And everyone you meet-exchange information. Keep in touch with them because this industry is rapidly changing. When all the dust settles, the engineering industry here in the valley will be forever changed. We aren't the only casualty of the economy.

There are a slew of industry organizations. If you want to step away from the industry and just network try your local Chambers of Commerce (League of Arizona Cities and Towns should have Chamber contact information on every city/town in Arizona) or volunteer with your favorite organization.

Industry organizations include:
APWA - http://arizona.apwa.net/
ACEC - www.acecaz.ort
ASCE - www.asce.org
AWWA - www.awwa.org
NSPE - www.nspe.org

I will post more tomorrow (or maybe since I made three posts today, I will wait until Friday). I have a book full of info I am trying to get out on my blog. Please be patient with me. If anyone else has any ideas, feel free to pipe in at any time. I welcome comments and suggestions!!

Networking Works!

I am a firm believer that things happen for a reason. I didn't go to the zoo today because the deal was Tanner had to eat his breakfast or he wasn't going to the zoo...so here I am. I had planned on networking, but instead, I got a phone call I was wanting to receive regarding a potential opportunity. I am pretty sure this is my "perfect job". So I had the freedom to speak with the person, uninterrupted and land a personal interview. I am not sure I would have been able to do that if I had been with 20+ kids at the zoo in this hellish heat (have I mentioned it's hot like a banshee?).

This opportunity was a result of networking...not mine, but a coworker's. The more people who know what you do and are capable of doing, the easier your search...because you won't be searching alone and it won't seem so overwhelming.

Reach out to everyone you know...again...and again...until you find a job. There are jobs out there, but people don't want to invest the time/money to filter through volumes of resumes. Make it easy. Be that perfect person. Approach them, don't wait to be approached. Offer them something you know they need then it's not like YOU really need the job, but THEY REALLY NEED YOU too. It's more of a trade.

Everyone of the CMXans who are reading this (and so far I only KNOW of 3 CMX followers and a longtime friend of mine...where's the love?) should know that they are the last ones left because they had something CMX could not be without - you are an asset. I know it doesn't really feel that way, but that is the reality. So know that you have something special to offer the next company - we are all talented, loyal people and we have something to offer. There is a quote I tell myself all the time (it's my mantra right now)...we are only given challenges in life because if are strong enough to endure them. We are all strong enough to handle this challenge. If you can't do it alone - we do it together. Chin up!

Day 45 - Networking Recap

Today I am going to a field trip with Tanner to the zoo. There will be four other parents there...this is a time to network. I know I already did a snippet on networking, but let's revisit some of the more important topics.

• GET CONNECTED - there are a number of social networking sites where you can get in touch with both friends and family. The most commonly used (as sited in The Social Media Bible) are Facebook, LinkedIn, and MySpace. For our uses, I suggest the first two. LinkedIn is strictly business - great for posting your resume and soliciting recommendations from former employers. I have been told by those who have recently been searching for jobs that prospective employers ask about your LinkedIn profile - so it's best to have one. Facebook is a more respected version of personal social networking. I was not into the social networking until about 2 months ago. I can honestly say, it has put me in touch with some old friends who have really reached out since my job search began. It is a great tool to direct friends/family to your resume on LinkedIn. I try to connect to as many people as I can and I put the message out every other day or so that I am still looking.
• STAY CONNECTED - You can't just put your message out there in cyberspace and expect people to go to it. You have to bring them there. Exchange information with everyone you see. If you forget to exchange information with someone you meet, look them up on one of the social networking sites so you can get in touch with them. Contact them (either directly or indirectly) at least once/week. I post notes and write in my blog and then direct my contacts there. You are not networking if you don't continue the contact and if you don't exchange information.
• STAND OUT - I would like to say that I am the brainchild behind my blogging, but I am not. Genie suggested I start a blog because I want to get into social networking as a job. I am a good rambler and I have a lot to say. What better medium for me to use other than just standing out on the street and talking until someone stops and listens (I am not beyond that though!). Do something where people will want to come look at your networking sites (funny pet videos would bring ME to your site).
• SET A GOAL TO REACH OUT - If you are not outgoing, just go out somewhere and meet ONE new person a day for the next 3 days. Once you have mastered that, then go out and meet one new person and exchange information with that person (make up some business cards that say your name/number/email). Do that everyday. Once you feel comfortable with one person/day...up it to two. Before you know it, you will know a lot more people and those people (as long as you STAY connected) are more eyes and ears for your job search.
• NETWORK INDIRECTLY - Use LinkedIn/Facebook to search for people you haven't talked to in awhile. I am contacting a lifetime of old friends. I try to connect to 5 new people/day. I am still searching. I can't remember people's last names, so I just wait until it comes to me and then I write it down for the next day's search. Some people aren't on LinkedIn, but they know someone who is...see if you can't find some elementary school friends. I look for little/big brothers of girls I went to school with.

This is a good start to networking. I will be addressing this more, the closer we get.

As you develop your network, share it with others. If I know someone wants a job at Home Depot, I reach out to my friend who has worked at Home Depot for 15 years for some names. Any connection could be a potential job for you or someone else. Stay positive and good luck!

More Temporary Staffing Agency Links

It seems like we are not getting any good news...never fear, that's my job! Below is a convenient listing from the top 25 Temp Agencies in the Valley from the Phoenix Business Journal Book of Lists (I have only listed the ones I think are relevant). Temp agencies are great because they give you the flexibility to work if you want and say, "not today" if you want. Depending on the type of assignment you are looking for, you might be able to get something permanent.

Having worked in the staffing industry for more than six years (yes...that is something most of you don't know about me), I am a HUGE advocate of temp agencies. Depending on what you are willing to do, they can keep you pretty easy. My only suggestion is to be as honest with them as possible and they will do what they can to assist you. They are helping you...but you are also helping them.

• Treat every assignment as a potential job lead - if you do well, they may want to hire you full time
• Dress to impress - just because it's temp work doesn't mean you shouldn't make a good impression
• Without being obnoxious, sell yourself - the client is obligated to go through the temp agency for a certain amount of time (you might want to find this out up front from the temp agency) and then they can hire you (typically called temp to perm); however, they are not obligated to keep you
• Business benefit from temp agencies because they get to try out their employee before they buy (try before you buy)

Here is the list:

http://www.proplacement.com/ - all industries
http://www.stivers.com/ - all industries
http://www.nescodirect.com/ - accounting/administrative
http://www.randstad.com/ - administrative/technical
http://www.linkstaffing.com/ - administrative
http://www.selectstaffing.com/ - customer service, admin, technical
http://www.tacworldwide.com/ - professional/engineering/technical/IT
http://www.staffonesearch.com/ - all industries
http://www.pesinc.com/ - all industries
http://www.renaissancepersonnel.com/ - professional/construction/admin
http://www.govig.com/ - construction/consulting/admin
http://www.spectra-az.com/ - all industries

• Browse the websites and look to see if there are any jobs you might consider doing
• Call them and tell them what you are looking for - they might have something that is not listed on their website (staffing is a turn-and-burn business; it moves very quickly)
• Have all your information ready because when you click "Apply Now", they ask you detailed information and sometimes even "pre-qualify" you with a general test
  

I hope this is helpful to someone. Let me know if anyone is out there "listening".

Resume Writing

I have seen a lot of resumes over the past couple of weeks. A few pointers when writing a resume:

• Describe in-depth the role you performed at current and previous jobs
• Bullets are kind to the eyes - a lot of text is overwhelming
• Keep your resume organized - nix the clutter
• Ask for someone to review it - as well as you may write, having someone else look at it for readability it essential
• Resumes should be two pages or less (unless your experience dictates otherwise) - put yourself in the shoes of the people reading the resumes
• If you have never written a resume before, ask for a sample resume

I was sent a link to share with everyone regarding Resume writing and letters of recommendation. I have read through the resume writing portion and many of the tips are relevant to our industry.

Good luck writing your resume and let me know if you would like me to review. I encourage you to follow my blog for more tips/pointers provided by other followers and friends. Thanks everyone for your input!

Flattened, not Flattered - Day 46

I am not sure if I am experiencing the Anger stage of grief, or if I am just a little miffed that I won't be paid for the PTO I accrued over the last four years. I should be flattered that I am going down with the ship, right? Well, I feel like I got the short end of the stick. I won't fester on the negative, but it seems VERY unfair that everyone who has gotten laid off before me received their PTO and a severance package. LAME!

So, I had some weird dreams last night and one of them showed my resume with the title of Interactive Network Consultant. I looked it up and there are actually people doing this, but it sounds a little technical for my resume. Not sure what (if anything) the dream meant, but I will keep looking at companies who do this...maybe I AM a candidate! I have heard dreams are manifestations of our of true wishes or biggest fears. I am not sure what the Network Consultant dream represented? Thoughts on this?

Day 47 - Temporary Agencies are an Option

Friends keep sending me information for potential jobs...thank you so much! The more ears to the ground, the better. I am passing information on when I come across it and sharing my information regarding resources for finding jobs. I hope the little information I am providing is helpful to someone. I still haven't really wrapped my arms around the fact that I really have to start looking for a job. I am doing a little bit of searching, but it can be overwhelming when I really think about it.

I am adding information regarding temporary agencies as I find them to be useful. Because I have a background in staffing, I consider temp agencies a very helpful resource. Recruiters can be very helpful too; however, in this economy you have to wonder why someone would pay a recruiter when they have a plethora of people to choose from. Some reasons might include they just don't have the resources to read through the volumes of resumes sent in from both qualified and unqualified applicants. Using a recruiter/staffing agency also allows you to test out staff without the expense of actually hiring them (unemployment, social security, etc.). If they don't like them, no harm done, they just tell the temp company and the person's assignment is cancelled. They don't have to fire the employee and worry with the unemployment claims.

Temporary agencies are just another avenue to explore. I have sent a list out to everyone with a pretty comprehensive list of agencies in the valley. The link also appears in a previous post.

As always, good luck and keep positive.

Valuable Links for Job Searching/Networking

I mentioned I would follow up with the information regarding the Home Builders Association. Here is a link to the Home Builders Association Networking Article. It details information with regard to their Monday morning networking function. My suggestion is to call them and find out if they are still holding these breakfasts and if there is a cost to attend. The article I read was in April, so I am sure things have changed since them. Their website is Home Builders Association of Central Arizona.

As I find additional links/information that would be helpful for your job searches, I will add to this post. In the meantime, stay positive.

Ladies Day

I had a great day with a handful of ladies from CMX , past and present. It was good to see them in their element. Some have kids and others don't, but everyone was watching the kids and there was a lot of love! And can I just say, the TRAIN ROOM is something else. Thanks to Katie for opening up her home to all of us (and a beautiful one it is) and to Valerie who was the brainchild behind the idea to have a Ladies Lunch. ...good times!

Day 49

I now have FOUR followers...I feel like a rock star! Now I am under pressure to keep it interesting and informative.

Eleven days into the search...time has flown...I must be having fun! I have submitted my resume for job #3. Two of the three jobs have been through connections and one of the two is not posted. I am hopeful that one of them pans out.

I continue to preach the importance of reaching out. Now that we are more than a week into the search, those people that I informed that I am out of work, I am now circling back again to remind them of my plight. I intend to make some cards up with my name, number, links and email so people can get in touch with me.

I am really thankful for the outreach of complete strangers wanting to assist. I called the Media/Communications Director from a company hoping to be able to work on their social networking sites. She said they weren't looking to hire someone to do that at this time; however, because of her position, she meets with a lot of people and suggested that I forward her my resume with contact information - that was very nice. I will contact her weekly, just to let her know I am still looking until I find another job. I also got a request for my resume from our sales rep at the subscription procurement company. She also talks to a lot of people and might run into something for which I might be suited.

It is a small world...the more people you know, the smaller it is. Did I mention that I now have FOUR followers!! Keep reaching out, keep networking. Go to church, AA meetings, organization functions...wherever you feel comfortable talking to people. If you are like me, that is everywhere. Although, I went to the grocery store today and didn't talk to anyone. No one looked like they wanted to talk...that's OK, I will talk to my neighbors again and let them know.

I am hoping every one's job search (for those that are searching) is on track and you are networking. Some of us NEED a job immediately, no matter how meager the wages. My suggestion is to contact some temp agencies specializing in your trade. I spoke to a gentleman from Aerotek (a technical placement agency for the AEC industry) and he was supposed to send me an email to send out to the company regarding getting in touch with him. They may be coming into the office next week, or so he said.

Some networking tips include going to a meeting. If you belong to an organization that you are not really involved in, go to a meeting and meet one new person. Tell them about your plight and exchange information. Networking is not beneficial unless you exchange information. Organizations might include - going to church, attending an HOA meeting, getting back to the gym, industry associations, etc. I think the Homebuilders Association holds monthly morning mixers for those who are out of work. It's is a forum to exchange ideas and network. The article was in the Business Journal about 3 weeks ago.

If you don't belong to any type of organization, there are a few free ones you can join - USGBC is free and there are a lot of industry professionals who are also members. If any of my followers know any other free organizations, feel free to comment. Keep your chin up and keep looking. Good luck.

Day 51 -

I stumbled across something special when I walked through the doors at CMX. I felt it the minute I wandered in...the warmth, the sincerity, and the sense of family. As I do with my own family, I often questioned, "how did I get to belong to this family?" Twice, I nearly left because of family differences, but something drew me back each time.

We had disagreements within the family. It was OK to agree to disagree. We existed with one another as family regardless of our differences in faith, nationality, color, or political beliefs. We took the bad with the good. When there were conflicts, we resolved them and moved on.

The camaraderie at CMX runs deep and seems timeless. We have celebrated the births of countless children as well as the loss of loved ones, young and old. We triumphed together, now we all stand defeated, together, as a family. And while we may have been defeated, we have not lost...we have gained some of the most valuable friendships we may ever have...we have learned from industry experts what we could not have learned anywhere else...we have shared our lives with some of the most incredible people...we have stood among greatness, and no one can take that from you.

So go out and take all that you gained with your family at CMX and leave your mark at your next destination. Make an impression...be memorable. CMX will be forever in my heart.

What Happened to Day 52??

Time got away from me yesterday and while I had every intention of writing some insightful blog about my job search, I lost track of time. Sorry fans. All that means is you get TWO wonderful posts tonight...lucky you! Yesterday was a productive and draining day. I love what I am doing - I am sad that we couldn't have been providing resume writing services earlier. I am lucky enough to get to know everyone on a pretty intimate basis by helping them update their resume. It is a tiny glimpse into a life I didn't share with these people I consider "family". Thanks to everyone for allowing me into your life and sharing with me. I am truly honored to be able to assist you in your future endeavors. I am forever a piece of your life (and hopefully a memorable one) because of your generosity.

Regarding my job search...I found a couple of Internet resume sites where you can post your resume for free; however, I am not impressed with either of the sites I tried to use. VisualCV and Zolio are the sites. There is one other site I am going to look at tonight, but my hopes aren't high. My best bet is to just post my resume on my "free" web page provided through Cox. Since I pay them a shoeload, I should really be getting something out of the service other than 2 movie channels I don't watch.

I have also read a couple of very insightful articles - New Rules of Recruitment and Two-Step Online Application. If you are currently searching for a job, I suggest you read these two articles before you even begin. As I find other relevant and informative articles/sights, I will be sure to provide them. The Employment Websites.org/ also has a list of employment websites for all industries. I googled employment agencies for Arizona and the query returned the following list of local agencies -Local Emploment Agencies. Those are some good starts for people with not a lot of connections.

I am sad for the loss of a great company. I am excited to find out where everyone ends up. I feel confident that those who work hard and network will find a position. There are jobs out there.

I don't suggest listening to the news (sometimes it's pretty grim), I did hear that unemployment (continued claims) are on the decline. Either people's unemployment is running out or people are finding jobs. I am hoping for the latter.

Good luck and stay positive.

Countdown - Day 53

So "early bird gets the worm" is not always the case. The bird needn't be so hasty! I sent off a cover letter today and found a typo in it...yes "fans", a typo!! UGH! So the PT Marketing Coordinator position is no longer an opportunity...lame. On the upside, I still have some prospects and will be much more careful not to make the same mistake. That's the beauty of being me...I actually learn from my mistakes (I have to...I make so many!).

People are still "getting used to" the idea of the company closing. I try not to think about it every second of the day. I don't have to, everyone else is. The 60-day notice is kind of murky. It's like watching someone die...or worse, the person is already dead, but still warm. One of my co-workers stated, "...it's like someone died and the body isn't even dead and their parts are being donated...their clothes and jewelry being stolen..." There is a very dark cloud hovering. Some departments don't even turn on the lights in the morning.

Then there are the gamut of people's emotions we all have to deal with. Some think we won't make it the whole 60 days, others are in disbelief and haven't really acknowledged that they need to begin looking for a job, some people cry every day, and there are the "manics"...a little edgy and hysterical about the whole ordeal. They were manic before, but the situation has only amplified their manic behavior! Then there are the flatliners...those that need to get a little more in touch with their emotional side (you know who you are!).

Personally, I am just glad for the notice and thankful for the people I know. I continue to talk to anyone who will listen about available jobs and potential contract opportunities. As we near our closing date, I am sure the panic will only deepen. Over and out for now...

Early Bird Gets the Worm - Day 54

Early bird (or late bird for those of you up LATE NIGHT...you know who you are) gets the worm...or so I hope. I was up early looking for job on careerbuilder...prospects are limited. I will search more and post more later today.

55 Days to Go

Whoohoo!! I finally finished my resume and I'm ready to embark on this new journey. I must say, there is a lot of love out there. Thank you to all my friends who are forwarding posts and providing me with potential opportunities. While nothing has firmed up, I feel even more positive about my prospects.

Before I formally make the trek into Internet job searching, I need to at least narrow some potential areas I will be searching. I am thinking engineering (it's what I am currently doing and where I have the most recent experience and contacts), advertising/social networking (this is an area I have recently been intrigued with and think I would do well). I like to write and think I could bring humor and levity to informative posts (this requires me knowing about the industry in which I am working). IT is another potential area of employment. I have to be careful here because technology has changed since I was last in the industry, but I am a quick study and have no worries of being able to catch on quickly. So I have honed in on a few areas.

The tools I am currently using are specific to social networking...Facebook (used mostly to steer any interested people to either my blog or LinkeIn page), LinkedIn (a valuable, professional networking site where I can keep business associates from all industries on my radar), and my blog. The purpose for my blog is multi-faceted. It's a journal, living proof of my ability to ramble (blog) about something (or nothing), and it will hopefully provide some prospective employer (or business partner) insight into my personality. Or, the flip side is that it will bore someone to tears!

Whatever the case, I hope my "follower(s)" enjoy the ride!

56 Days to Go

Four days into " the search" and I am still in the resume "review" process. I am deciding the industries that I want to approach for potential opportunities. While I believe the economy is on the upswing (at a snail's pace), I am not sure how long it will take the civil engineering industry to revive itself - so I am looking at other industries.

Others that I trust have reviewed my resume and I am making the final touches to my text resume. I will finalize later today or tomorrow at work. Once the text resume is done, I will embark on the journey of creating a visually appealing resume for posting as a pdf. This will hopefully display my creativity and desktop publishing skills.

Back in the old days, I wouldn't have been so conscientious about the search. But now an older and wiser me realizes the importance of first impression (when I don't get to be present). I am talented, smart, and an asset to any organization (no self esteem issues either).

I still have to maintain a happy, healthy home while I search for new employment. With that said, I am off to go swimming at my brother's for the afternoon! I will be back later to see what the Internet has in store for me. Happy hunting to the other CMXans that are looking!

57 Days to Go

I would like to think that today is the first day of my job search; however, my search actually started when I found out CMX would be closing in 60 days. This blog is to document my race against the clock...to see if I can find a job before the doors of my current job close.

I am built on positive energy. I have a very positive outlook and high hopes of finding a job that I will not only like, but love. While looking for jobs is not one of my favorite pastimes, it always makes me a little excited because it is an opportunity to reinvent myself and find a place where I can learn more, make new friends (not that I don't love the old ones...but I am a people person), and move into another phase of life.

This is a good time for me to be looking for a job because I am comfortable in my life and in my skin. I like who I am (of course being a little thinner would REALLY make my day!) and people like me (was that a self affirmation??...wow, I am dating myself).

I am thoroughly amazed at the technology changes since the last job search (four years ago). There was no Facebook (or I wasn't "with it" then) or real social networking sites outside of Classmates.com (paid subscription). Facebook and LinkedIn have made it really easy to reach out to everyone you know and have known. This makes it a lot easier to network than the old days of flipping through the rolodex for old friends (and that still happens too!).

I am enjoying creating various pages for my job search. It shows how adaptable I am. I am not sure if anyone will read this but me, but if anyone is out there reading and looking for a job, HANG IN THERE! Believe in yourself and know where you are strong and where you aren't. This is the perfect place for an insightful quote from someone larger than life, but I will work on that for the next post.