Got your prospect list?

Dear Dave,

There is nothing I would like better than to find an entry level IT position which will allow me to develop my software development/systems analysis skills in the banking/consulting/software industries. Any chance you can help me in my search?

Signed, Searching

Dear Searching,

During your job search, do you have a list of companies you are looking for entry to? A prospect list? Banking/consulting/software is too general for someone like me (and most other people) and unless you know of a specific position available, I can't help you too much. A lot of my conversations with job seekers go like this:

Could you please help me with some assistance?"

"Sure! How can I help?"

"I'm looking for employment?"

"I'm afraid that's too general for me, please be more specific."

"I'm looking for a position in marketing."

"I'm afraid that's still too general, please be more specific."

"I'm looking for a job in the pharma sector in marketing."

"Still too general, what company?"

"I don't know."

"Toronto based? Ontario based? Large company? Small company? Private? Public? Generic? Brand?"

"I don't know."

"That's OK, but you are making me (and other people) work too much on your behalf. Pick 5 companies to start with, write them down and start showing them to friends and family. Ask if they know anyone who works there and could you have a conversation with them? Most people response very well to this.

"But who do I know they are the right companies to work for?"

"This isn't a job interview, it's an informational interview. They may reveal this is NOT a company you want to work for. Often these talks result in the person telling you about another company in their industry with another opening. You just have to start getting in front of people and quit just being a resume."

e.g.

Could you please help me with some assistance?"

"Sure! How can I help?"

"Do you know anyone who works at GSK, Pfizer, Altana, Roche or Medical Futures?"

"Sure, I know folks who work in all those companies."

"I'm looking for a job in the pharma sector in marketing; any chance I could chat with one of them and get an informational interview for 5 minutes, or maybe a chnce for a face to face?

"Sure, don't send me your resume, just a one-paragraph outline listing your degree and experience and what you are looking for . I'll send it over to them and I'm certain they would be happy to take your call."

THEN,

1. Use this script:

"Hello, Dr. Brown? My name is Dave Howlett. I am looking to acquire some information into [their industry]; Susan Smith recommended you as someone having insights in this industry and into some opportunities where someone of my background and education could have a fit. I would really love the opportunity to meet with you."

(This gives you an introduction though an associate, it compliments them as an industry expert and accomplishes the purpose of having a meeting with them. Many positions in companies are unadvertised and something may be available. )

Don't forget:

- respect their time - they are busy people.
- make sure you have done research on their company and can speak about their successes and challenges (use news.google.com)
- ask the person you are talking to how you can help them in turn? (just offer it, people are charmed and complimented when you do)
- send them a thank you card (not just an email)
- let the original person who gave you the contact know how the conversation went.
- remember they will open door for you as a person (not as a resume) if they think you will make them look good and not embarrass them in front of others. Be nice, brush your teeth, polish your shoes, be courteous.

I hope this helps!