Do you want your dream job right out of the gate? Well, you are going to have to work at it. I don't mean just preparing a resume or your portfolio. You have to network!
Networking is just building and maintaining relationships. With only 10% of the jobs out there actually posted, it really is who you know. There are many organizations out there that provide great face-to-face networking opportunities.
First, your local chamber of commerce is a valuable resource. They host business after hour events, ribbon cuttings and are usually connected to a local young professionals groups.
What is your field of interest? If advertising is your bag, look into the American Advertising Federation of Lincoln. If you are interested in graphic design, check out AIGA. AMA, PRSA and IABC are all clubs that have social activities to help you rub elbow with potential employers. Do a search for organizations that could supply you with that contact; ask your teachers, friends and coworkers for suggestions. There are a million groups out there that can help you.
To stand out, become involved in your clubs. Think of how many professionals you will get to know by volunteering on a committee or the board of directors. Work your way up and meet everyone!
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Exiting a conversation
In Wednesday's AdCamp, we talked about personal branding and networking. I promised students that I would go a little bit more in depth on how to professionally exit a conversation during a networking event.
Even if you could stand there and talk to one person for hours, you are there to network and meet as many great contacts as possible. This does not mean you are there to shuffle out your business cards left and right, but to start building relationships with professionals in your town and, hopefully, in your field of interest.
If you've just made an introduction between two people, you've solidified your 'handoff.' Just need to excuse yourself politely. Sometimes you need to wait for the lull--that point in the conversation when it will move into another topic. Thanking the other person for their time is a great start to your exit. Hand him or her your business card and move onto the next conversation--even take a step in the opposite direction.
Now, sometimes it's quite difficult to remove yourself from a conversation if the other individual won't stop talking. Gradually back away and turn your shoulder. Use body signals to send the message. A last resort is to announce that you are going to hit the restroom or grab a drink.
Utilize your time wisely during networking events and make sure to follow up!
Even if you could stand there and talk to one person for hours, you are there to network and meet as many great contacts as possible. This does not mean you are there to shuffle out your business cards left and right, but to start building relationships with professionals in your town and, hopefully, in your field of interest.
If you've just made an introduction between two people, you've solidified your 'handoff.' Just need to excuse yourself politely. Sometimes you need to wait for the lull--that point in the conversation when it will move into another topic. Thanking the other person for their time is a great start to your exit. Hand him or her your business card and move onto the next conversation--even take a step in the opposite direction.
Now, sometimes it's quite difficult to remove yourself from a conversation if the other individual won't stop talking. Gradually back away and turn your shoulder. Use body signals to send the message. A last resort is to announce that you are going to hit the restroom or grab a drink.
Utilize your time wisely during networking events and make sure to follow up!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
AdCampers: Watch out world!
I was completely impressed today by the students who attended AdCamp. This event, held at the Embassy Suites in Lincoln and hosted by the American Advertising Federation of Lincoln, brought together almost 50 students from colleges across Nebraska for a day of education and networking.
This new crop of soon-to-be graduates introduced themselves with confidence, asked all the right questions during the sessions, and seemed to soak up any and all information thrown their way.
If you are a student reading this post, I congratulate you. I commend you on your professionalism and courtesy. I would be honored to call you my colleague.
For those of you expecting some more tips on networking, check back tomorrow!
This new crop of soon-to-be graduates introduced themselves with confidence, asked all the right questions during the sessions, and seemed to soak up any and all information thrown their way.
If you are a student reading this post, I congratulate you. I commend you on your professionalism and courtesy. I would be honored to call you my colleague.
For those of you expecting some more tips on networking, check back tomorrow!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Kaizen principles can be used in personal development
A Japanese management strategy called Kaizen (改善) means "improvement"—kai" (改) means change/make better, and "zen" (善) means "good"—but as the term is used as a business process it roughly translates to "continuous slow improvement."
Though Kaizen is a tool used by corporations to achieve greater innovation, productivity and general excellence, it’s also an approach that we can learn from and apply to our own lives as we strive for continuous improvement on a more personal level.
The foundation for the Kaizen Method consists of five elements:
- teamwork
- personal discipline
- improved morale
- quality circles
- suggestions for improvement
Elimination of waste and inefficiency, good housekeeping and standardization are the three key factors when addressing the foundation. Consider incorporating Kaizen to improve your mindfulness, knowledge and skill slowly over time.
To start your own personal Kaizen, sit down and make a list of the areas you want to improve. Take on the "low-hanging fruit first"—start with the easiest change to make. The momentum of getting benefits right away will sustain you while you conquer the more difficult problems in future.
Friday, November 6, 2009
I Don't Do Windows
I recently spoke with Kara Michelle Newman, Vice President and Director of Creative Solutions for Katz Media Group, about her company's internship program.
Ms. Newman identifies outstanding juniors or seniors for a coveted spot in the Media Associates Program. Those selected work directly with media experts to learn the inner-workings of Katz Media Group, the nation’s leading media representation firm.
She listed several qualities she is looking for in an individual that applies for the program. Surprisingly, the top attribute to get the job is not an impressive resume and portfolio, professional appearance or great connections. She's looking for the student who has a 'can do' attitude. Students that have an air of entitlement do not make the cut.
My advice? In an interview, communicate that you are not afraid to roll up your sleeves to get the job done. In today's tough economy, employers are looking for individuals who are hard working and can follow through and complete tasks that they are assigned to do. So grab the squeegee!
Ms. Newman identifies outstanding juniors or seniors for a coveted spot in the Media Associates Program. Those selected work directly with media experts to learn the inner-workings of Katz Media Group, the nation’s leading media representation firm.
She listed several qualities she is looking for in an individual that applies for the program. Surprisingly, the top attribute to get the job is not an impressive resume and portfolio, professional appearance or great connections. She's looking for the student who has a 'can do' attitude. Students that have an air of entitlement do not make the cut.
My advice? In an interview, communicate that you are not afraid to roll up your sleeves to get the job done. In today's tough economy, employers are looking for individuals who are hard working and can follow through and complete tasks that they are assigned to do. So grab the squeegee!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Google Yourself
Have you ever typed your name into a search engine? What popped up? I've put some time into building my brand. If you google "Kelley Porter" you'll find my LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter profiles. You will also find my involvement with the Advertising Federation of Lincoln and the Nebraska Brain Injury Task Force, my photo with the Governor, as well as my work with the Nebraska Hospital Association.
This is all the information you want a prospective employer or client to find. Please don't advertise the photos of what you did for Halloween or the 'last calls' you've made at the local bar to anyone who might be in a position to recommend you for a job or hire you. You can still have personal information on the Web, but make sure it's only available to those you want to view it.
This is all the information you want a prospective employer or client to find. Please don't advertise the photos of what you did for Halloween or the 'last calls' you've made at the local bar to anyone who might be in a position to recommend you for a job or hire you. You can still have personal information on the Web, but make sure it's only available to those you want to view it.
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