Courting Your Career - find your perfectly matched job

May 11, 10:45 AMCareer Coach ExaminerMiriam Salpeter

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Are you the job seeker who, when asked what you're good at, or what you want to do, says, "I am really good at a lot of things. I have many skills, such as X, Y and Z, and I am a quick learner, so I can really do anything and I am open to just about any job."

If that sounds familiar, it is time to re-work your pitch! As Shawn Graham, author of Courting Your Career, notes in the book, being willing to do anything is akin to saying you would date just about anyone, as long as they have teeth!

Shawn's useful and informative book helps make the job search process more accessible to readers by comparing a job search to a search for a mate.

The first step for both processes? Figure out who you are and what you want! Look beyond physical appearance and cast a wide enough net to include a variety of types of companies to "romance."

While some may believe that "fate" should play a big role in their love life and career paths, it's a good idea to incorporate a good dose of planning in both areas for success.

Shawn weaves the dating analogy through the "meet market" - networking, and reminds readers that "Before you can date someone, you need to meet someone" (p. 33).  He offers three principles of effective networking:

• Assess - figure out who you know
• Expand - grow outside of your existing network
• Maintain - keep up your ongoing relationships

He reminds us that leveraging skills learned from past relationships is as useful for job seekers as it is for dating!

A tip I particularly enjoyed that also is perfectly aligned with both dating and job seeking is "it isn't all about you." Shawn asks, "Have you ever been on a date with someone who talked about him- or herself all night long?" (p. 111). You don't want to be the self-centered job seeker! Remember that looking for a job is just as much about connecting to the employer's needs as it is about what you have to offer!

There are some differences between job seeking and dating...For example, Shawn reminds readers that they should NOT send flowers to thank an interviewer!

Courting Your Career is a great (and fun) read for anyone in job search mode. The message is an optimistic and useful reminder - so much is in YOUR hands! Take advantage of it and move forward successfully!

YOU have a chance to win a copy of Courting Your Career! All you need to do is comment on any one of my blogs (comment on as many as you'd like to increase your chances - links are below). Share a story, ask a question...Let us know why you could use this book. I'll pick one winner at random on Friday to receive a copy.

Keppie Careers

GreatPlaceJobs

Secrets of the Job Hunt

Need some help with your job search? I won't help you with your dating life, but you'll probably learn some great transferable skills when we work together! Contact me to discuss how we can work together!