Last week I presented a program for the North Dallas/Plano Career Focus Group at St. Andrew’s Methodist Church, titled Driving Your Plans to Work. I thought you’d like a taste of that presentation, if you didn’t attend. I customized the presentation for the group as the program coordinator indicated he wanted me to encourage the group to look for former jobs, as well as think about alternatives.
I listened attentively to the 30 second presentations of the participants’ job titles, understanding the exercise is important for a couple of reasons:
1) You focus on your best skills.
2) You may be able to furnish leads and contacts to each other.
But no matter how good your 30 second commercials are, you need good plans for the upcoming year.
Finances
How much do you need to make? Pay cuts abound, as only 27% plan to increase salaries for new hires in 2010, according to a recent article titled, Employers see uptick in hiring in 2010.
Personality
Shyness is not an asset in changing jobs or careers. You must bury shyness. And on the opposite end of the spectrum, you need to forget any cockiness or faux-confidence in your blood. You are in sales, which means you modify your behavior to meet the needs of the situation. Whether you feel like it or not, push yourself to be diplomatic and friendly. If you have a liability, do NOT let it hinder you. Focus on your assets.
Skills
Know what your best skills are. They can transfer to other industries or your own business, but it is not an easy switch.
Role Models
Who were your role models growing up? Was your mom or dad an entrepreneur? Did your favorite uncle drive a truck or own a restaurant? Who was your favorite manager/boss? All these experiences color your drive to success.
Plan of Action
I see many who know how to write a great resume and interview well, but they only have one plan. You need back up plans. Plans need to be written and reviewed periodically and not only remain in your head. They don’t have to be fancy or written well enough to go to the bank; however, you do need to determine how you will arrive at your destination. Target companies, whether for full time jobs or entrepreneurial endeavors. How will you sell yourself (the product) or market your own business?
That’s it for today for I must keep massaging my 2010 business plan, which is in sad shape at the moment. Isn’t there a story about the shoemakers’ children going barefoot?
Be sure to subscribe and read my articles at:
http://www.examiner.com/x-31872-Dallas-Career-Transition-Examiner
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
I would appreciate more visual materials, to make your blog more attractive, but your writing style really compensates it. But there is always place for improvement
Excellent article! I liked Waiting for new records
Super idea! Very intresting. Waiting for new articles
Just thought I’d drop you a line to tell you your website really rocks! I have been looking for some good information on jobs.