Blog Post: Five "Must See" Tips for Your Job Search!

A new business owner asked me the other day, "What advice would you give an entrepreneur who is just starting out?" In today's economy, it's easy to counsel "Run and hide!" but that's an answer that's neither helpful nor accurate. In fact, this may be the best time to embark on a new career, simply because you get to prove yourself in the toughest job market many of us have seen in our lifetime. Here is how I answered her question.

You entered into your new career because your passion led you there. First and foremost, that passion is what people should know about you. Tell your prospects and customers how you decided to embark on your new venture. What makes it more than just a job? Know and live the reasons why you're the best provider of your particular service and product in the marketplace!

Had my questioner been a job-seeker, she might have asked "What advice would give someone who is looking for work?" Here is how I would answer that question.

Your passion for work and people is what leads you to seek one particular job. All of us want more than a paycheck. Don't get me wrong, a paycheck is of great importance! First and foremost, that passion is what people should know about you. Tell your interviewers how you decided to work in the field you're applying for. What makes it more than just a job? Know and live the reasons why you're the best hire they can make in the marketplace!

Notice the similarities in the answers? Job-seeking is a lot like starting a new entrepreneurial venture. Own your job search, rather than letting your job search happen. Here are five tips to help you take control of your professional destiny.

• When someone says "I'll follow-up with you", take the initiative and follow-up with them.
• Set goals to achieve each day. You might choose to send X number of resumes out, or make X number of phone calls to contacts. As the Nike ad-people say, "Just do it!"
• Network your tail off! Be alert wherever you go. I talk to people in the gym, especially if they're wearing a logo or carrying a tote bag from a company I've targeted for my speeches, books and workshops.
• Stay positive. If you're having a bad day, create a ritual to snap out of it. My friends at Jobing.com tell me you can count on one month of search for every $10,000 of income you're looking for. That means a long haul for most of us; recognize that, and honor the fact that your new employer wants the very best. That's why they'll hire you!
• Ask for help. Get the professional guidance you need. A career coach helped me at crucial moments in my own search for employment after a previous employer said "Bye-bye!"

Recently, a man came up to me after a presentation and asked "What makes you an expert? Just because you wrote two books doesn't give you the right to preach about it!" After thanking him for his feedback, and silently wishing for a wall to magically appear between us, I answered as tactfully and simply as I could.

"I'm an expert because I've lived it."

Every experience makes us richer and more mature. Employers are looking for people with depth, wisdom and passion for their work. Be that person, and own not only your job hunt, but your succcess.