What resolutions should you be making in the new year?

When the calendar flipped to 2012, it ushered in a new year of potential and possibilities. As a job seeker looking to take the next step in your career, now is the time to make a resolution to turn the new year into a successful one.

As the world leader in workforce solutions, we know what it takes for professionals to succeed. So to help you, we’ve put together a list of recommended resolutions that can help you land your next great job.

Reassess your Career

Did you love your previous position? Did you want more out of your day-to-day? Is part of the reason things didn’t work out because you needed a more positive work environment?

Now is a good time to ask yourself these questions and determine whether or not you want to continue in the same line of work. John P. Strelecky, author of The Why Cafe, suggests that being unemployed is the ideal time to evaluate what you want to do with your career. According to Strelecky, 45% of Americans aren’t happy in their jobs, and if you are currently out of work, you are in the perfect position to explore a variety of options.

If you’re looking for a career change, try taking classes, volunteering or working on a contract or temporary basis to get the experience employers want to see. You’ll learn more about the industry and improve your chances of securing employment at the same time.

Refresh Your Online Profiles

Today, employers turn to social networks when evaluating candidates like you. That means Facebook isn’t just for friending old high school buddies. LinkedIn, Twitter, Google Plus and other online networking sites can also be great platforms to present and market yourself. Of course, you also need to check your privacy preferences to make sure the information you post can only be seen by appropriate audiences. You wouldn’t want a recruiter stumbling upon photos from your wild weekend getaway.

Your LinkedIn profile is especially important, as it is the most popular professional networking site. Click here for a list of recommendations to help you get the most out of your LinkedIn profile.

No matter what service you use, be sure to keep your information up to date to increase visibility and catch the eye of recruiters or potential employers.

Revamp your network

Building up a network of professional contacts – and potential references – could help you in your job search. After all, “who you know” is often just as important as “what you know.”

So how can you build a solid network? You can start by reaching out to former colleagues, bosses and associates immediately. Solidifying these relationships can take time and effort, and you don’t want to miss out on potential opportunities or potential references.

You should also be selective when it comes to building your network; don’t contact people in the hopes of getting a recommendation for a position if you have no prior history with them. Instead, start a conversation on a blog or social networking site, comment on statuses, offer advice where appropriate, and position yourself as a resource. Remember that maintaining your network is a continuous endeavor and remaining in contact with your colleagues will be a vital part of your success.

Rewrite your Resume

Without a doubt, your resume and your cover letter are two of the most important pieces of content in your job search. They are the first things recruiters and hiring managers see and a poorly written or unprofessional looking resume can cost you a job even if you are a great match. That’s why it is so important to make sure yours is up to date and appeals to prospective employers.

According to US News, there are a few steps you can take make a good first impression with your resume. First, tailor your resume to the job. Create unique resumes for each individual opportunity in order to highlight the skills that are specific to the position. Furthermore, be sure to read the application carefully and follow all the instructions. This simple step can provide you with a leg up on other candidates who are applying to jobs without taking the small details into consideration.

Lastly, keep your resume simple. Leave out any irrelevant information, personal information, and photos, etc. You want your resume to be easy to read for the employer. If it takes too much time or effort to review your application, a potential employer will likely move on to the next candidate.

Revitalize your marketable skills

The Government of Alberta detailed the three critical skills that employers are looking for:

• Transferable skills, such as computer and technology aptitude, are very flexible and useful in a variety of jobs and industries.
• Time management skills and the ability to effectively manage your workload and schedule are also paramount.
• Work-specific skills, the ones you will use every day in your chosen career path, should be continually refined. In addition to taking professional development courses, temporary positions can help you gain real world experience and bolster your skill set to appeal to future employers.

As an Adecco associate, you’ll have free access to our online skills training programs.  We offer access to thousands of courses across professional fields that will enable you to brush up on your skills- or learn new ones.

You have the power to make 2012 a truly awesome year. Take the time to enact these resolutions in order to enhance your job search and land your dream job.

But remember, these tips are just the start when it comes to putting your dream job within reach. For more tips and career advice, visit Adecco Staffing Services or contact your local Adecco office today.

And now for a Contest!

Adecco USA will be running a “New Year, New You” contest starting January 15, 2012. Check out the Adecco Facebook page for more details, and find out how you could win daily prizes throughout January 2012!

One grand prize winner will  receive an interview suit and laptop- stayed tuned, and you could be on the path to career success!

Ms. Career Girl Contest

Now that you have these great New Year’s resolutions, which one are you going to stick with? Do you have another resolution that would be great for women in the workforce? Leave a comment here and the best idea will win a $50 visa gift card!  The winner will be announced on our Facebook page on Friday January 13th at 5pm CST.

Thanks to everyone who came out to Ms. Career Girl Connect last night!  It was a big success and a LOT of fun!  I’ll post event pictures taken by our fabulous photographer, Joy Turner, very soon!

I had so much fun playing talk show host (despite the moody microphone), wearing my new leopard skirt and meeting new friends.  I met some new girlfriends and bloggers from the July event and already got an email this morning from a group of attendees who want to do a girls night dinner!  I love that the event has become more of a community than just a networking event.

A big thanks to our venue, Proof Chicago!  You guys were more than accommodating with re-arranging furniture, donating free champagne (so amazing), setting up tables for the food and my Stella & Dot display, providing great music and friendly bar tenders and staff.  The venue is gorgeous and we can’t wait to throw another event in your space!!

Stay tuned for a blog post summarizing the advice given in the panel discussion.  I learned a lot and the panel discussion was a great reminder of how important managing and planning personal finances are to overall happiness and success.

Also, I decided to extend the special offers I gave to attendees to ALL readers:

• Code MCG100 will get you $100 off Ladies Launch Pad (offered in-person Chicago or on Skype!)
• MCG75 will get you $75 off Small Biz Tech Setup Camp
• I’m also running a Stella & Dot promotion for an ADDITIONAL $50 in free jewelry (most hostesses already get at least $250 in free jewels plus 4 half-priced items) if you host a virtual, office or home Trunk Show for me in October!

Kovie (our event coordinator) and I are meeting on Tuesday to plan the next event(s).  We’re thinking a MCG Connect in November and maybe even a co-ed holiday party in December.

What would YOU like to see in the next event?  Or, want Ms. Career Girl Connect to come to your city?  Put your feedback in the comments section or email me at nicole@mscareergirl.com!  These events are 100% for you and created based on your feedback.

I also want to again thank…

Our panelists (WOW you ladies really impressed me!),

• SUSAN BROWN- Mortgage Banker at PHH Home Loans  | susan.brown@phhonline.com
  
• EILEEN ROMITO-  Real Estate Agent, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage | eileen.romito@cbexchange.com
• DAMI OLOTU- Financial Representative at Northwestern Mutual | dami.olotu@nmfn.com
• JENNIFER KIPER - Owner of Jennifer Kiper Farmer’s Insurance Agency | jkiper@farmersagent.com
  

and our gift bag donors!

• Alpha Dog, the book
• Alice Dobrinksy of Arbonne
• AnnieSez.com
• City Swarm
• Created Pure
• Deborah Wess of ChiAuPairUsa.Org
• Excel Rain Man
• Jessica Entingh of Creative Memories
• MaddyMoo.com
• May Vora Jewelry
• Merri Mysteries
• Michelle Dunn, author of “The Guide to Getting Paid“
• Moxie Magazine
• PhotoBin.com
• ProForma.com
• TravelGoGirl.com

By, Patricia Brehm

Today I found a fascinating TechCrunch article by Aileen Lee, “Why Women Rule the Internet.” The idea is that women are now the matriachs of the vast web abyss. Namely, the idea goes that since women are more inclined to work with the social networks, engage in online networking, building e-based professional relationships etc. In another fascinating article posted on  SEOmoz, about “Tips for Link Builders” recommends “being a girl” and if you search through blog posts as well as forums, you’ll find numerous mentions of finding a female community manager or social media specialist.

In contrast, the realm of Information Technology, the driving force of code and script that creates social media, seems to be an industry containing mostly men. According to Wikipedia (source of all reliable information nowadays), the desire to drive women into computing careers seems high. In technology communities, a number of resources have sprung up to foster fellowship amongst females in high-tech industries. For example, Sarah Blow founded Geek Girl Dinners as the result of being fed up with a lack of females at technical events. Even geek chic pioneer ThinkGeek has started a line of heroine t-shirts, including Ada Lovelace,  who is considered to be the first female computer programmer. If you go to Slideshare you’ll find a presentation entitled “How to Be An Awesome Community Manager,” written by Marta Majewska, dealing with how to manage an effective social network.

According to Ms. Lee’s article, not only are women powerful in developing a business presence on the web, but female consumers also play a critical role in Internet commercial success. Her article cites astounding sales figures driven by female consumers. So whether it’s electronic retail or driving social networking, the idea of a matriarchal web presence seems to be pervasive and powerful concept.

What are YOUR thoughts?  Is being a female really an advantage when it comes to online branding?  Do females have more power?  If so, why?

By, Norma Tassy

In order to get questions answered, learn about resources, get to the next level, or secure a new position, one thing is essential: a solid network. Take a moment- whether you are in a position that you enjoy or are managing a transition- to evaluate your network. Your network consists of people who will return your phone call and act on your behalf when called upon. Network contacts are people that you have worked with and are willing to affirm your status. The people in your network are all types of professional associates, acquaintances from the industry you are in as well as friends and family members.

For your network to be able to provide you with the support you will need as you move through your career, it will need to consist of all types of individuals. However for your network to be effective it is imperative that it includes 3 types of people.

The Industry Insider

The industry insider is characterized by a long time spent in a particular field of endeavor. And a level of expertise and distinction in that area. An industry insider is important to your network because of their vast knowledge of trends. Their ability to relate where the industry has been and where it is headed is invaluable. The insider is also likely to know lots of people who perform many functions within the field.

The Mentor

A mentor is defined as a wise and trusted counselor or teacher. In terms of networking a mentor is a person who can help to guide your career. A mentor provides valuable input into important decisions. The mentor guides his or her mentee from experience gained in all fields of endeavor. Someone in sales is certainly able to guide someone in billing in terms of how to handle situations with management or with customers. Having a mentor is especially important to someone new to a field or a person who has recently changed industries.

The Power Networker

A power networker helps connect people. The power networker has relationships across multiple industries at all levels. But most of all the power networker is happy to connect people. They make calls, facilitate introductions and host events. It is so important to have a power networker in any network because they act as a bridge and help someone in telecommunications interact with someone in financial services.

A network that can support your goals, provide insight and information is critical at all phases of professional development. These contacts can be made almost anywhere: at social events, industry associations, on your intramural sports team, inside your office and sometimes even at networking events. Be sure to ask yourself which role you are able to play for those in your network. Be a mentor, an insider or a power partner for someone else. Try it.

Today’s post is by, Angela Armstrong

You’re fresh out of college and looking for a job.  You’ve tried the  job boards, your school career counselor, etc. but nothing has worked.  So what’s next?  Networking is the key to career success and a great way to lead to your next job.  But you are not interested in attending stuffy networking events.  You’re in luck; just about anyone associated with your college experience can form the foundation of a solid network.

11 Connections You Should Make to Build Your Post-College Network

1. Your Classmates – They may seem like competition, but no one knows  you better.   Since you will most likely be going through the job search at roughly the same time, they will know the openings out there.   This is also an excellent resource for information swapping.
2. Alumni, especially recent graduates –   Recent alumni who’ve paved the way for you are more acquainted with the kinds of job you hope to land.    More established alumni may be far  removed from the kind of entry-level job you’d like, but they also may have the hiring power.    To find out updates about what alumni are doing check your college’s publications.  Look for alumni in your field and geographic location.
3. Parents /Parents of Classmates - both can be a great resource for introducing you to new connections and getting tips on networking.
4. Fraternity brothers, sorority sisters and Greek Organization Alumni -
5. Coaches – Coaches can be an excellent network resource.  They care about their athletes and know lots of people.
6. Guest Speakers - The professionals who come to speak to your classes are a vast untapped market.   After their presentation, introduce yourself and ask the best way to keep in contact with them.    By building a rapport and keeping in touch with them, this could lead to something.
7. Current and Former employers –  Most student today can get through college without having a a job at some point.  Even if your job is not in your career field, your employer can still be a useful networking contact.
8. Members of your religious community -your campus ministry or congregation back home can provide a wealth of contacts.
9. Members of professional organizations – most colleges sponsor student chapters of professional organizations, which are rich sources of networking contacts.   Your network efforts will benefit from a student membership in the nearest professional chapter.
10. Peer Volunteers – Volunteering can provide an abundant networking opportunities and college is a great time to get started.  You are only making a difference but also making some productive connections
11. Informational Interviewees –  this is an excellent way to learn about the realities of the work world and what to expect.   People generally are open to informational interviews as it gives them a chance to talk about their industry and give advice.

You’ve heard it before that once a Greek always a Greek.  This network can begin to work for you almost immediately, not only with your current peers but with alumni, who may be able to assist you.

Take a look around you; there are always great resources and contacts to begin building your network.   Put yourself out there and connect.  You are on your way to a fabulous career.

This post is all about effective follow up and relationship building.  ”Relationship building” sounds blase, but that’s what you’re trying to do so I’m not going to waste time trying to camouflage it.  Like I always say, the most exciting thing about networking is you just never know who you’re going to meet, it can be your next great business partner, employer, hairdresser, real estate agent or your future husband…so always show up ready to dazzle the crowd in your own personal way.

If you’ve seen the last two posts: Superwoman’s Networking Handbook and Superwoman’s Networking Handbook: Elevate Your Elevator Speech, you’re already equipped with some great techniques for meeting new people (if not, go back and read those first, you’ll get more out of this post!).

The main problem many of us face once we’ve met new people whether it was at a specific networking function or a random social event-is we’re not sure HOW or WHEN to contact them.

How long should I wait?

Should I call?

Send an email?

Friend them on Facebook?

The answer is easy…handle this issue before it becomes an issue.  When you’re about to part ways with the person, say something like, “I really enjoyed speaking with you and would love to connect again soon, what’s the best way to reach you?” (feel free to put that in your own words, personally I’d probably say something more along the lines of “So and so, I’m so glad I got to meet you today, we should definitely keep in touch, are you more of an emailer, a caller or a texter?”)  BAM! Now, they’re either going to a) tell you exactly how to contact them or b)say something awkward that indicates they’re not really interested, which saves you the time.  Win, win!

Another sticky issue can be meeting several people at once.  Some of you can probably relate to sifting through a stack of business cards a day or two later and having to wrack your brain to remember who the people are.  The solution here: immediately after the event, make notes on the back of people’s cards that will help you remember them.  You know how your brain works, make notes that will best jog your memory, think in terms of something you had in common with them, what they looked like, where they were from.  Details you think they’d be pleased to know you remembered are especially helpful when you reconnect.  Showing you have an excellent memory is an impressive way to display your listening skills as well.

24-48 Hour Rule. I’m a huge proponent of making that follow up effort within 24-48 hours.  When fear of appearing “too eager” creeps up on you and you begin to procrastinate, just stop it.  In business and in life, I’d way rather risk giving people the impression that I’m too enthusiastic, or overly eager and excited, than the opposite–that I don’t care or I’m lazy.  Besides, as you’ll see in a second, that first follow up message is going to be super brief anyway.

The message. The fact of the matter is that we live in a digitally dominated society so more than likely, you’re going to be sending an email.  Danielle Laporte, one of my guru’s for business, life, writing, entrepreneurship and overall being a phenomenal human posted this blog: Qualified Requests: How to Ask for Stuff, and it’s perfect for this.  Whether you’re requesting to grab a coffee or something deeper, click on that link and follow her tips, she is superb.  (If you’re the type of person that loathes asking for things, you, especially need to read that post, it might change your life!)

The call. If the person said to call them, do it.  Calls are a little more nerve wracking and since they can’t be edited and revised like an email, there’s a lot more room for it to take a wrong turn.  Not for you though my vigilant reader, because you will be prepared.  Here’s two important tips:

1.  Be in a quiet place. You might be a great juggler of life’s tasks, but making the call while you’re walking down the street, wind blowing in the phone and cars buzzing by, or while the Starbucks guy makes your skinny vanilla latte and five other people place their orders, is not the way to show someone you’re interested in connecting with them and respect their time.

2.  Make a few notes. However notes work best for you, in bullets, random scribble, full sentences, that’s up to you.  I’m not saying script out your phone call, but do read Danielle’s blog and jot down what you’d like to cover in the conversation.  Google the person, check out their website or company.  Are you going to tell them you did all that research, probably not (after all the goal is preparation, not to be a stalker), but it gives you a better idea of who you’re dealing with.  This also comes in handy in the event that you get their voicemail.  Under no circumstances should you wing this call, even if you’re normally great at ad-libbing!

The nudge. I love the nudge, because people are so freakin’ busy they often don’t respond but that doesn’t mean they didn’t like you or they didn’t want to connect.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve nudged someone and get a response like this, “Thank you so much for reminding me! I totally meant to get back to you but your email got buried in my inbox.”  If a whole week goes by and you haven’t heard from someone, go ahead and shoot a quick message (via their preferred method) along the lines of,

Hi, [their name], this is [your name], I sent you a message last week and just wanted to make one more small attempt to get in touch since you’re probably super busy.  I know how many messages get buried in my inbox every week!  [insert quick reminder of the request you made in the original message].  Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you when you have a second.

Just a little nudge, you’re not being a pest, but at that point if you don’t hear back, it’s not because you didn’t make your best effort.

Like always, please leave your comments and feedback.  We love it, and often learn from you too, which we absolutely appreciate.  Have you used any of our tips?  Let us know about those experiences also.  Cheers to abundant networking success in 2011

HELLO AGAIN, my networking apprentices.  I’m not addressing follow up yet but I do promise that will be next.  I noticed a theme in the words many of you used in your comments on the last post, “daunting,” “intimidating,” and “awkward,” to name a few.   So I want to address that before we move on to the follow up to make sure your extra-super-well equipped to make an excellent impression at events and functions (since your follow ups will yield a less than desirable response if you’re not).

I recently attended an event for female entrepreneurs hosted by Marie Forleo (kick ass business coach for female entrepreneurs, works on projects with Tony Robbins and Richard Branson!) called Rich, Happy and Hot LIVE.  Imagine networking in a room of 150 female entrepreneurs representing all kinds of products and services.  To those of you who mentioned being intimidated at times, there were a few power sluggers at this event.  Women who’s books I read and websites I idolize like Gabrielle Bernstein, Latham Thomas, Katie Freiling and Danielle Laporte.  I was definitely stomping around Donna Karan’s Urban Zen center in my extremely-nervous-afraid-to-introduce-myself shoes (size 7 1/2) around those ladies.  So let me just say, I feel you.

I walked away feeling more comfortable and knowing that it’s not only normal, but totally okay to be nervous.  It’s important to be tough too though, just push through the nervous, get in there, make those introductions, have that mildly awkward (and sometimes not so awkward, yes!) small talk and I assure you–there is so much opportunity waiting for you on the other side.

A guaranteed way to mitigate nerves and the intimidation in any situation is by ramping up your preparedness.  I did some digging around for you.  Here’s the comment that resonated with me most from last week, “I think your tips about elevator speeches and first impressions are true in these situations, though I think it’s more important to be friendly and memorable than super professional.”

I never actually said be super professional, which is why this comment stuck out to me.  I want to be 100% clear this time…

I’m a huge believer that you must be yourself, communicate in your way, and never try to shove yourself into a mold that doesn’t feel right to you.  That a person gets an understanding of your personality through your quick introduction or elevator speech is the most important point of emphasis.  Especially women.  We are feelers, more so than thinkers.  We are blessed with gut feelings and intuition that are usually right, so be genuine, be authentic, be yourself-because people can tell when you’re not.  Do you ever get that icky feeling when you meet someone? Like, hm, I don’t know who they were trying to fool with that BS but I’m not falling for it?  Let’s strive never to be that person!

Here are some DO’s and DON’Ts to answering “What do you do?” (huge thanks to the blogs of Danielle Laporte: White Hot Truth, and Yvonne Bynoe: Soulful Affluence who’s tips I’ve fused into what you’re about to read):

1.  DON’T: just give your job title. I have to be honest, titles drive me crazy.  There are no 2-3 word descriptions that fully describe the depth of what you do.  Titles truly allow people to make judgments (not because they’re bad people, but that’s just how it works), based on those few words.  So don’t do it (keep reading to learn how to avoid it)!

2.  DO: be prepared with an answer you actually feel good about saying.  Whether you love what you do, hate it or could care less, be sure to include a quick nugget about something you love and are interested in.  People’s interests after all, Danielle Laporte explains, are what makes them interesting.

3. DO: Formulate a list of your interests, your dreams, and what you do to earn money. This is how you’re going to come up with something you feel good about saying.  Make a list of words and phrases to mold into your elevator speech. I spent a lot of time on this exercise so I’ll walk you through my example:

Words: health and fitness, writer, coach, consultant, trainer, fithealthyandbeautiful.com, writing a book, want to open a studio, work with really busy women, teach them how to take better care of themselves.

End Product: “What do you do Liz?”

“Well, you can find me at fithealthyandbeautiful.com and I write for several women’s online magazines as well.  I’ll be opening a boutique health and fitness studio in NYC late in 2011 and I’m building a platform for my first book.”

And here I’ve been telling people I’m a personal trainer, or a health and fitness coach, depending on whatever came flying out of my mouth at that moment.  See how much better that was?

4. DO NOT: for a second think that people care about the minutiae of what you do (unless of course, they ask).  There is nothing worse, than having to feign interest in someone’s long-winded, energy sucking description of their job.  People care about the end result of your work, not particularly how you get from Point A to Point B.  So go ahead and leave those details out.

5.  DO:use your own vernacular. Please when you’re coming up with your new fabulous answer to “What do you do?” say it however you’d say it to your closest girlfriends or your family.  There’s no need to put on heirs, and like Leslie said, “be super professional.”  Real people who do not apologize who they are make the most connections in this life.  It’s super refreshing on a planet where so many people are trying to shove themselves into molds that aren’t made for them.

Work on these tips, grab a notepad, write down your words and formulate your amazing description.  I guarantee you will feel less intimidated and nervous, and that pit in your stomach will be slightly smaller when you enter the room, knowing you have this little gem in your back pocket.

Stay tuned for my next post on following up…(I mean it this time!) and please feel free to share your comments and introductions with us!

I’m super excited to have  Liz DiAlto as a guest poster today!  Liz addresses one of my favorite topics: networking.  If you hate the idea of networking, you might love it after reading Liz’s post.

Whether you’re just starting off in your career, switching industries all together or looking to get better connected in your current field, networking skills are one of the most valuable skill sets you can have.  The most exciting part about networking? You never know when you might come across a “Connector,”  defined by Malcolm Gladwell as, “the type of person who knows everyone” in The Tipping Point (great read by the way if you need some inspiration to get out there and start meeting people!)

Here’s a great example…

A personal training client of mine connected me to her classmate from grad school, who is Editor-in-Chief of a women’s online magazine which resulted in my first opportunity to be a contributing writer.  That would have been great enough but check this out…

Online magazine Editor-In-Chief connected me to:

1. Two Hollywood Publicists who combined connect me to two published authors, one famous actress/filmmaker/dancer, a celebrity spa owner and a celebrity personal trainer.
2. NY Times Best-Selling author of one of 2010’s top women’s self help books.
3. One of the most followed inspirational people on Twitter.
4. The owners and designers of an up and coming accessory line.
5. Owner of holistic wellness boutique in NYC who’s been featured everywhere from Elle Magazine to the Dr. Oz show.

And I could go on for days with a flow chart that stems out from these connections, but I’m sure you get the point.  Now let’s get the specifics.

5 Networking Tips

1. Set your objectives. What kind of networking are you trying to do and why?  Figure this out first because later on I’m going to tell you to get out there and attend some events.  Networking events usually aren’t free, so you’ll want to choose wisely.
2. Research.  Start with a Google search of networking groups in a) your industry, and/or b) an area of interest for you (i.e. women’s networking groups, entrepreneurs, publishing, fashion…etc.) that are c) in your area.  Example: “women’s networking groups, NY, NY.”  Take your time visiting the websites of what your search yields.

• What to look for: Always read the “About” first, to get an exact picture of the group’s objectives so you can see if it’s right for you, or if you should move on to the next one.  (We’re trying to network here, not waste our time!)
• Don’t join yet! If you find a group you’d consider joining, attend a few of their events first before investing in annual dues.  Often, it’s cheaper to just pay the non-member rate for a few events throughout the course of the year.
• Do more research at the events. Chances are the people at the events have attended several others for that group and others.  Don’t forget to ask how they like the group and what others they’d recommend.  (Word of mouth is, and always will be the best form of advertising and referrals!)
• BNI International: BNI is the largest business networking organization in the world.  Annual dues are kind of pricey, but if you have the budget, it’s definitely worth it.  Click the link to find a chapter near you and to learn more about BNI.

3. Prepare your elevator speech and practice it! If you’re not familiar with the good ol’ elevator speech, put simply, it’s the answer to “What do you do?” Imagine you’re lucky enough to be in the elevator for a few floors with the person who could make all your professional dreams come true, how would you describe (in 60s or less) what you do (or what you’re capable of) and what makes you special.  Write it down, edit, and re-edit.  Be familiar enough with it so that you can convey it conversationally in a manner that shows your personality, passion and enthusiasm for what you’re out to accomplish.

4. Get in there and make a great impression girl! You want to show up to events armed with plenty of business cards, dressed in an outfit that makes you feel confident and, if possible, displays what you do.

Example: I’m a health and fitness professional, I always wear something classy and flattering that shows I practice what I preach. I’ve seen owners of jewelry businesses wear a piece from their line, a stylist looking extremely fashionable, finance people looking more professional in suits…you get the point.

5. Don’t wait for people to approach you. Whether you’re shy or outgoing, you must be prepared to introduce yourself to people.  Not sure where to start? “Hi, I’m [your name], (smile, and put your hand out for a firm handshake).”  Conversation usually flows pretty easily from there (especially when you have a great elevator speech ready to go!)

Remember ladies, there are two kinds of people in the world, those who wait for things to happen to them, and those who get out there and make things happen. Now you have the tools to getting started at events.

Stay tuned for Superwoman’s Networking Handbook Part II where I’ll cover how to follow up with all the connections you make. 

Please comment below! I want to hear your questions, success stories, personal networking best practices or group recommendations.

Thanks again for a great guest post by Nicole Martin of Employed Panache!

Ladies, I have some bad news for you… College does not teach you everything you will need for your career.  For those of you who are not nodding your heads with understanding – don’t panic!  Take a few breaths and keep reading, because I am going to share with you four concise lessons that a mentor once taught me:

1. Put most of your time into projects with impact. In other words, spend time on the stuff that matters.  Believe it or not, the little stuff can wait (unless it’s time sensitive, of course).  Focus on those projects that will have a noticeable effect on others, and will therefore give you visibility in your department, across functions, and up the chain of command.

2. Make yourself visible to those above you. Let’s say you are at a specialist level – pretty low on the corporate totem pole.  Your manager has a pretty good idea of what you are working on, but what about their manager?  And your manager’s manager’s manager?  (You get the point.)  Find ways to ensure that those in leadership roles know who you are and what you do.  This can be done through projects or even chats over coffee, where the subjects can range from industry news to that person’s career history.

3. Find your authentic self. You can think about your authentic self as the true you that your family and friends know well.  Some people find themselves caught up in how their boss or co-workers might expect them to act or what hobbies they expect them to like.  While this is important to know, it is equally important not to completely drown out who you truly are.  Find that happy medium because when you are your authentic self, you will come across as genuine.

4. Focus on your sweet spot. Lets face it… not everyone can be great at everything, even though we try over and over again!  Be honest about your strengths and limitations, and then get help or guidance from colleagues who are strong in your weak areas.  Just be sure that you return the favor.

I will always be grateful to my mentor for sharing this insight with me.  I just wish that I had known her about a decade ago!  For more about my mentoring experiences, check out Employed Panache.

Everyone wants to live up to his or her potential in life. For some people, this means that they want to have a big family or contribute to charities. For others, it means advancing as far as possible in their career. Career advancement can be a stressful and difficult process. It is hard to understand when to ask for a raise or try for a promotion. However, there are several things you can do to set yourself up for advancement in the career of your choosing.

Be Patient

Asking for a promotion or raise too soon is one of the biggest downfalls for people looking for career advancement. You never want to seem pushy, especially if you really do not deserve to be advanced. Instead, be patient and work hard to demonstrate your abilities. People will notice you putting in extra effort in the workplace without having to actually announce what you are doing. You will be surprised how much respect you will earn from your bosses and coworkers simply for doing your job.

Be Humble

Once people start noticing your hard work, you do not want to gloat and brag about your accomplishments. Be humble and keep doing your job. People who are higher up in your company will be impressed with your attitude. They are more likely to advance someone who is quietly proud of what they do over a person who is constantly talking about how hard they work.

Praise Others

People respond well to positive energy in the workplace. Compliment others any chance that you get. Emphasize the things that your coworkers do well. Let them know that they are really bringing a lot to the company. They will be more likely to help you in the future if you have consistently been nice to them. For example, you will be able to use them as references as you are advancing in your career.

Join Associations and Organizations

You should always be on the lookout for associations and professional organizations that are related to your field of work. These will be very helpful in teaching you the ins and outs of your industry. You will find out several tricks and tips that the average worker does not know. In addition, associations and organizations provide great opportunities for networking.

Go Back to School

A lot of companies require an advanced degree in order to move up in the organization. This means you will have to go back to school if you only have a bachelor’s degree. Thankfully, a lot of companies will pay for your continued education. There are also several affordable online MBA programs that make getting a degree convenient.  Another cool online masters program – which may set you apart from all the MBA grads out there- is Creighton’s dispute resolution degree. In today’s world full of conflict, many government organizations, schools, businesses and health care systems are frequently turning to mediators instead of attorneys to get things resolved.

Don’t Hold Grudges

Things do not always work out the way that you want them to. You need to learn how to let things go and move on. For example, if your coworker got the promotion that you wanted or was assigned the project that you were after, don’t get stuck on it. Keep working hard and you will eventually be noticed. Your negativity will only bring you down.

Do More Than What is Asked of You

One of the best ways to advance in your career is to do more work than what is assigned to you. Take on a new project if you find yourself with some downtime. Your bosses will take notice of how hard you are pushing yourself and keep that in mind when new positions open up.

Show Respect

One of the biggest keys to advancing in your career is something that you have been taught since you were a child. Show respect to everyone around you. You will be surprised how such a simple thing gets lost in the workplace. People get too caught up in their own job and forget about being respectful to those around them. Pay special attention to how you are treating others and you will stand out.