Looking for a Job? Switching Careers? Lost?

Tips to save you tons of TIME & MONEY: Take note!

If you fit into any of the buckets mentioned above, you DEFINITELY need to keep reading . . . and even if you're not, you may find useful information for future use. Searching for a job, switching careers or just feeling lost all together is a very stressful time and can be an overwhelming experience. Especially, when we look at our to-do list and think about all of the tasks we must complete.

I have some tips for you that will help you to: ORGANIZE your thoughts, PREPARE you to succeed, CREATE a manageable to-do list and PRIORITIZE your tasks.

Buckets to Consider:
*Note: it is YOUR responsibility to determine what tasks are mandatory and in what order you should complete the following. Complaining without action will get you nowhere. Take action. Make it happen. Get. Set. Go.

Informational Interviews: Set up meetings with industry professionals. Prepare by thinking of intriguing, intelligent and thought-provoking questions to ask. Always offer to pay! Always!

Phone Book: NEVER underestimate the power of resources right under your nose. If you're searching for contacts and information, the phone book could connect you to companies, professionals, phone numbers and other relevant information. It's ok to cold call/email. Be prepared. Be proactive. Just do it!

Organizations: Join professional organizations that will put you in contact with other professionals. Don't limit yourself to groups that specifically cater to your interests, broaden your horizons. You never know who you could meet and what you could learn. Be open!

Literature: In order to obtain and maximize ALL opportunities, it is essential that you are well-educated and well-versed on your area of interest. You must become an expert in your field. This will help to build up your confidence and help you to become more competent as well.

Mentors: Who is on your WISH LIST? Think about who you want to be your mentor and figure out a plan to make your goals a reality. It is a good idea to have many mentors. They will ultimately serve different purposes in your life and will help to propel your personal and professional life. Why invent the wheel?! Just learn from someone who has the knowledge and experience!

Volunteer: Become involved and roll up your sleeves to serve a good cause . . . while you're feeling good because you're giving back, you will also have an opportunity to network. Take advantage of all opportunities!

Research: Never be average, always be exceptional. The only way to make this happen is to do your research. Your research should consist of every detail regarding your pursuit. Your research should prepare you on how to dress, talk, verbiage to use, professionals to call/email, company information, position details, competitors, industry demands, industry magazines/books to read etc. You should be an expert! If you're anything less, keep reading!

WOW Factor: What's going to make you stand out? This is your job to figure out what gives you that sparkle, that icing on the cake, that bling factor that sets you apart from the competition. Maybe it's a portfolio, your passion, your accessories, your style, your personality, your go-gett'em attitude. Figure it out and exploit your "IT" factor in a positive way!

Internships: The best way to gain exposure, knowledge, experience, contacts and an overall understanding of an industry, department and business culture. Figure out if you need an internship and if so, make sure you maximize your opportunity by attending meetings, taking detailed notes, taking pictures, keeping a notebook, making a portfolio and building and maintaining contacts inside and outside of your department.

School: Need to go back to school to get your Masters? Specialized Degree? Is it necessary? Not for me to say, but what I will say is if you are undecided, you should contact school officials and begin to do the things listed in this article to figure out what your options are and if schooling is going to accelerate your goals and put you on a path to success or just delay your goals even more.

Shadowing: This exercise is not outdated or just for students. If you know someone that has a career in a field you love, ask them if you can spend a few hours in their shoes to gain a personalized and candid view of their profession. I'm sure they will be flattered!


I have given you lots to think about . . . now it's your turn to figure out which tips apply to you so you can begin making power moves today!

Stay FAB and good luck!