This month I am truly writing in the first person because I have decided to leave my safe world of private practice therapy and begin an eight-month job hunt for a salaried position that complements my coaching practice. I have begun with the usual Internet search engines: Career Builder and Monster, along with some lesser-known search engines. I've also selected companies (like Johnson and Johnson) and industries (pharmaceutical, hospital, governmental) that I would like to work for and placed a resume and profile on their employment websites.

 

The next step is to rebuild your resume that accurately reflects your knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) and include an objective statement at the top of your resume. Be sure that the resume is less than three pages, preferably one. Use action verbs that are "results" oriented.

 

Networking is also important, so be sure to put out the word that you're looking for a new challenge. Don't be afraid to extend yourself with your local Chamber of Commerce and "unsafe" contacts outside your immediate circle of colleagues. I'm looking to use my human relationship skills in any corporate HR department that values their employees as much as their customers. I've applied for senior management positions outside of the healthcare sector, if the KSAs are transferable. Doing executive evaluations and team-building is the same skill that works in most labor-intensive jobs.

 

Corporate culture is critical to a successful job search. Do you wish to work in a top-down, bureaucratic organization after working for yourself for 15 years or do you prefer a smaller company with entrepreneurial possibilities for a "spin off" company? Look to see if any personal investment is required and stay away from those recruiters who have no jobs but only want to sell you a dream. Many of these scams are "multi-level" marketing ploys designed to take your money and waste your time. Executive recruiters and "headhunters" are okay IF THE HIRING AGENCY is paying their commission. Don't take money out of your pocket when looking for that next job.

 

I've just started the search so I will use the next several newsletters to update you on my efforts thus far. I'm not desperate to leave Houston, but would consider relocation for the right opportunity and company. Don't limit yourself geographically unless you have heavy family obligations that limit your travel time. I would also recommend that you develop a strategic plan for finding your next job. Include a vision, mission, and goal statements along with a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) that will assist or limit you in your competing for that next challenge. Remain optimistic, but not overly grandiose. Be confident, but not cocky. And finally, be your authentic self and don't sell an image.  Next time we will talk about selling yourself during the interview.

 

 

"Helpful Hints" is a monthly feature of The Executive Connection. In this section of our Newsletter, we will discuss accountability structures necessary to stay focused on your business plan and objectives.

 

"This Month's Helpful Hints"

 

1. Rewrite your resume even if you're not looking for a new job. What do you notice about your past accomplishments and settings, tenure, reasons for leaving?
2. Do a computer search for jobs that fit your qualifications and see what's out there. You may want to stay put and be happy with your salary and job attributes.
3. Write a one-page narrative that sells your qualifications and why another company needs a person with your skills and talents.