6 People Who Should Be Part of Your Job Search Support Network
6 People Who Should Be Part of Your Job Search Support Network
PLEASE NOTE: The ideas and guidance in this piece are courtesy of “Get Five”, a Career Coaching and outplacement company from New York City where I received my Career Coach training in 2011.
Going it alone is a lonely endeavor, especially if you are job hunting. Having a support network can really make a difference, helping to open opportunities, provide emotional support, and serve as positive influences.
The right people will help keep you on task and hold you accountable. They also will lift you up when you are feeling down. Job searching is a journey, and this is your team to help ensure smooth sailing even if seas get rough.
A Mentor: Having an expert in your industry to lean on is critical to a successful career transformation. This person can answer questions, provide important insight specific to your industry, and help you network with other professionals who could influence your career. Having a mentor is always a good idea, but utilizing one during a job hunt can have a powerful impact.
The Cheerleader: Job searching can be difficult at times. Even the most optimistic people can have tough days. This is why having a cheerleader in your support group is important. This person does not have to work in your industry or even thoroughly understand your skills, they just must have a positive personality and be able to reach out and keep you lifted.
The Wordsmith: Having access to someone who is an expert with wording, can be a secret weapon in your job search efforts. You can rely on this individual to proof your resume and other important written communication so you stand out to hiring managers in a positive way. Think about who you know with a writing and editing background to fill this role.
The Grounded Person: Job searching is a job within itself. There are countless things to worry about, and that is when having a practical person to lean on can make a difference. This is the person who will be frank with you when you are flustered, can sort out complex job descriptions, and keep you focused on what matters most when you are feeling overwhelmed.
A Career Coach: Someone who is trained specifically in career development can offer important insight that will sharpen your job search efforts. Whether you are job searching due to a layoff or want to completely change careers, coaches’ insights are invaluable to the job search process.
Another Job Seeker: Other job seekers are going through the same challenges as you, so they are people you can bounce ideas off of as well as commiserate. In fact, you can look at this individual as your “Job Search Buddy.” Participating in regular job search support group meetings, with other job seekers, help you set goals to succeed in the process.
