Networking is Not a Dirty Word
Many of my career coaching clients cringe at the word “networking.” But I think networking gets a bad rap. When undertaken in the right spirit, building relationships can be fun as well as helpful. And you don’t have to be Keith Ferrazi to do it.
Read MoreTen Tips for Business Development
Here are ten tips to help you grow your business and develop strong client relationships: 1. Know your value. What do you offer? What are your core strengths? 2. Know your edge. Be able to articulate what sets you apart from competitors. If you are a small player, know how being nimble and scrappy is an advantage; if you are the biggest, know how being established and well-resourced is an advantage. 3. Identify your ideal client or customer so you know what you want and whom to target. 4. Do your homework. Understand your potential client’s business needs and how to serve them....
Read MoreWork from the Outside-In
Sometimes, when all else fails, you need to fake it. I’m not talking about Meg Ryan in “When Harry Met Sally.” I’m talking about creating an exterior that represents how you want to feel rather than how you actually feel, looking good when you feel not-so-good, and acting energetic even when you don’t feel it. After a recent night meeting, I went out with friends for a drink, got to bed too late, then was awakened by one child or another three times between midnight and four a.m. before my alarm went off at 5:30. Needless to say, I was not feeling my...
Read MoreInterviewing Beyond Your Comfort Zone
I recently coached two people who were preparing for job interviews that were a stretch from their current position. Several themes emerged that lead me to provide the following guidance to job-seekers. When interviewing for a job takes you another rung up on the managerial ladder, especially if the job takes you beyond your comfort zone, you may feel insecure about how to prove to your interviewer that you can take on the greater responsibility. Don’t panic. Your resume was good enough to get you in the door. The interview is your opportunity to synthesize the elements in your...
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