There is a well-known Zig Ziglar quote that goes like this: "You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want."
Can today's job hunters use this bit of wisdom?
Experts in networking have always preached that the secret to doing it well is to be self-less. It's paradoxical. To approach what seems to be a selfish endeavor (Gotta get me a job!) by turning it completely around (How can I help you?) may be one of the most puzzling aspects of the job search for many people.
Now a researcher, from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, named Adam Grant has published a book on the psychology of giving. Here are a few implications from Grant's research that you can begin to use in your upcoming networking events.
Show interest in the other person - A typical job hunter practices their "elevator speech" so that, in a networking interaction, they are ready to talk about themselves. The Giving Approach says shine the spotlight on the other person by showing interest in them. Let them go first. Prompt them to tell you their elevator speech. Listen and ask about it. Ask about the progress they are making in their search.
Ask the other person how you can help - Although you are looking for people who can help you, the Giving Approach says ask the other person what you can do to help them. You may be in a position to help them connect to someone in a company they are interested in. You may be a sounding board for the other person to work out their action plans. Or simply you may be a sympathetic listener.
Follow up with the other person - The job search can get lonely. Much of the time you are not in the company of others. It can be a long stretch until the next group meeting sometimes. The Giving Approach says try to keep in touch with the other person. Call them up. Check in and ask how things are going.
Grant says that the underlying power in the Giving Approach is that you are building relationships based upon generosity of spirit.
Once you land, your next challenge will be to bring the Giving Approach to your new company.
Note: For more information about Adam Grant and his book: http://www.inc.com/leigh-buchanan/adam-grant-leadership-give-and-take.html
Terrence H. Seamon is an organization development consultant who provides leadership and team development services to employers in New Jersey. His book Lead the Way explores the challenges of leadership. Additionally, Terry is a job search and career coach whose book To Your Success provides a motivational guide for anyone in transition. An alumnus of PSG, Terry co-founded and co-moderates the St. Matthias Employment Ministry in Somerset, NJ. He can be reached at thseamon@yahoo.com and via his website: http://about.me/terrenceseamon
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