The Proactive Job Search Series: Part 1 of 4
I talk a lot about a “proactive job search.” So, what does that even mean?
Here’s what it’s not…
Applying cold to job postings where you don’t have a contact.
Only focusing on opportunities that come to you via recruiters, colleagues and your well meaning family who collectively have no idea what you do.
Instead, a proactive job search is…
When you define your terms and priorities, then you network to find companies and roles that align with those terms.
You build relationships at those companies so when they have the right role that’s a fit for you, they think of you and consider you above other candidates. At a more senior level, it often looks like organizations creating the right role for you (yes!).
Sounds simple and, yes, it’s an approach that takes time. Yet – it delivers results and careers that are on your terms, in your words, designed by you. Think meaning, fulfillment, agency.
In this four-part email series, I will be addressing:
What to do when your search is 6-12 months away
How to proactively search when your timeline is immediate
What to do when you have a tiny network
What does progress look like?
Ideally, you want to get ahead and start connecting with people when the transition is just a sparkle of an idea that seems far off in the future. Frankly, it’s never too early to start connecting with your network – and you should be doing it even when you’re content in your role.
So, that’s where we’re starting in our series.
If your job search feels at least 6 months to a year out, here are some of the questions you can ask yourself…
What do I want to learn in my career? (hint: what feels energizing to learn rather than what feels like a “should’ or “have to.”)
Who do I know who does some of what I want to learn in their past or current roles?
What companies do I want to learn more about?
Who do I know at these companies that I can connect with?
Who do I know who can connect me to people at these companies?
Who are my mentors and advocates who want to help me?
Now, do a brain download of all of the people who come to mind. First on a piece of paper and then, if you’re anything like me, you’ll feel discomfort until you wrangle these contacts into a spreadsheet.
Start reaching out to the folks on the list with a target of setting up 1-2 meetings a month. Always have a goal for your conversation and think about who these people might be able to introduce you to. I also recommend having your Elevator Pitch at the ready so you can be clear and concise about what you need and how they can support you!
At this point, you’re looking to continue to expand your network and get closer to the answer to question number one. What do I want to learn?
I highly recommend finding an accountability partner who has a similar timeline - feel free to forward this email to them! Set up monthly conversations where you can discuss the meetings you’ve had, what’s currently scheduled for the coming month, what’s coming out of these chats and what dots you’re connecting about what could be next for you.
And, of course, if you find yourself needing a bit more support and guidance don't hesitate to schedule a complimentary Clarity Call with me to learn more about my private coaching options.
In next week’s blog post, I’ll talk more about the scenario of when you find yourself in an active job search and you’re looking to switch from a reactive to a proactive approach…at lightning speed!