CAREER TIPS

In today's professional world, one must have experience, technical savvy and - increasingly critical - people skills. Change hardiness, as well, has become a requirement for hiring or promotion. Those who demonstrate that their flexibility and resilience add value have a real edge.

Our career tips are for those currently in a position or those in a temporary, job search mode. If some feel different or uncomfortable it probably means that change is afoot. Just try them! They've worked for many people.

Laid Off? Do's and Don'ts

• DO review all information you received from management.
  
  
• DO be honest with yourself and your family about your emotions: anger, anxiety, sadness, confusion. Mixed feelings are all normal reactions to job loss.
  
  
• DO postpone contacting friends, prospective employers or recruiters about a new job until after the workshop. Get everything in order first. You may not be able to call on them later if you don't create a good impression now.
  
  
• DO review classified ads and tear out or copy ads that interest you. Do not answer them yet.
  
  
• DO compile a list of friends, relatives and business associates who might be able to provide you with information to help you locate a job. Do not contact them yet.
  
  
• DO start a personal financial evaluation and consider delaying significant expenditures, if appropriate.
  
  
• DO think about whether you want to relocate.
  
  
• DO think about long-term career plans - whether to continue in the same field, shift careers or further your education.
  
  
• DO take advantage of the Messenger Associates Inc. services that are being provided for you. We offer a wealth of experience in assisting people with their job searches. We are here to help you
  
  
• DON'T lash out at the company or your manager to anyone. Even though you may be right, you'll come across as bitter or hostile to people who may later be in a position to help you get a job.
  
  
• DON'T pretend it did not happen or think you can get away with not telling your family until you find a new job. You'll need the support of your family and friends.
  
  
• DON'T send out old resumes or begin your job search until after you have started your program. We will help you write a new resume appropriate to the current job market.
  
  
• DON'T delay your job search. Enroll in your Career Continuation Program now. Remember, looking for a job is a full time job. Get up every morning and get at it!
  
  

Choosing a Transition Firm

It's hard to make an objective decision on such a subjective issue. Nevertheless it's important to remember that because the career transition firm you choose will be your business partner, you need to choose as wisely as you would in any business relationship. To select a firm, examine materials and meet with the people to get a sense of what would be in your best professional and personal interests.

Here are some questions you can ask as you visit the different firms:

• How long has your firm been in business?
  
  
• How large is your organization?
  
  
• How many offices would be available to me in this immediate area?
  
  
• How would you manage my job search if I want to relocate?
  
  
• What is the professional background of your consulting staff?
  
  
• How are your consultants trained, and how is their performance measured?
  
  
• What makes your firm unique, and how does that benefit me?
  
  
• Can you describe your career transition process?
  
  
• May I see the manuals, audiotapes and videotapes you use?
  
  
• How do you assure quality in your organization?
  
  
• How do you uncover viable job leads for candidates?
  
  
• What resources will be available to me?
  
  
• May I see where I would be working each day?
  
  
• How long does it usually take to find a new job?
  
  
• What databases are available for my research?
  
  
• What limitations do you have on office use, telephone use, stationery, resume copies, postage, or consultant access?
  
  
• What resources and materials are provided if I'm interested in my own business rather than re-employment?
  
  
  

How a Career Consultant Helps

Objective evaluation of your employment strategies, goals and plans.

• Evaluation of your accomplishments, job skills, work experience and competencies.
  
  
• How to assess your strengths and weaknesses.
  
  
• Help in the preparation of an appropriate, attractive and quality resume.
  
  
• How to respond to a newspaper employment advertisement.
  
  
• How to write an effective cover letter.
  
  
• How to prepare a 90-second introduction.
  
  
• Help in preparing for job interviews.
  
  
• Analysis and debriefing of completed job interviews.
  
  
• How to be proactive in your job search.
  
  
• How to recognize and develop an employment network and how to conduct a network interview.
  
  
• Relocation advice and assistance.
  
  
• Evaluation of job offers.
  
  
• How to negotiate job offers.
  
  
• Where to find information on CNY employment opportunities, companies and organizations.
  
  
• How to work with headhunters and employment agencies.
  
  
• How to work with the NYS unemployment service and local government training agencies.
  
  
• Information, advice and assistance on CNY educational, training and professional certification programs.
  
  
• How to use the Internet to assist in finding employment.
  
  
• How to establish reasonable employment expectations and time schedules.
  
  
• How to target companies for employment and obtain favorable consideration for employment.
  
  
• How to select and work with your references.
  
  
• How to locate and evaluate self-employment opportunities.
  
  
• How to determine if a career change is appropriate and timely.
  
  
• Encouragement, support and monitoring of progress to successfully complete a career transition.