When we are in the midst of a job search, we often wonder what to say to people about it or if we should say anything at all.
Don't Keep Your Job Search a Secret
Unless you are looking for job and don't want to spill the beans to the boss, letting people know that you are looking and what you are looking for is a smart thing to do. It's savvy business networking to get the word out. How else will you inspire people to share leads, referrals or suggestions? That was a rhetorical question but you may have an answer. IF so, please feel free to share!
What To Say
The phrase I most often hear is, "I'm in transition." Makes sense to me. Or "I'm looking for a new _____ (challenge, position, opportunity, job--you fill in the blank). A person with even a modicum of conversation skills should ask the question, "Really, what are you looking for?" And that is the answer to the eternal question, "What should I say to the person who is out of job?" And then a conversation ensues.
Incontrovertible Talk Tips
Based on my book, What Do I say Next?, here are some conversation bon mots:
- Consider what is being said and address it. Let the situation set the agenda.
- Have a broad range of topics of interest to discuss. (Read the papers).
- Put people at ease by being friendly, interested and appropriately open.
- Ask opintions of others and listen when they speak.
- PAY attention to what's being said and respond accordingly.
Conversation is a conduit to problem -solving. Sharing information will yield ideas, leads and information that you otherwise, may not receive.
Simply put, if you get "the word out", you'll most likely get more (helpful) words back. And even a job lead!
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