Dr. Bamster's Blog

Even though this may not be a good time for you - job loss, difficult job search, etc., take some time to appreciate what you do have.   I wish each of you a Happy Thanksgiving and may many blessings come your way.

Let's regroup next week - and be sure to check out our links  - there are many resources on the Riley Guide and SpeedNetworking - they are only a click away!

Are we really out-of-touch with some of the basics of etiquette like "thank you"???

Recently, I had met with a job seekers as a favor to a friend.  We had a delightful meeting to help this professional get a job search game plan and review how to re-establish the networking momentum.  After a 3-hour meeting, the typical closures were expressed - the individual expressed appreciation and I wished them well and encouraged them to keep in touch.

Now comes the basic etiquette question, "Should this person send a followup thank you?"  The overwhelming answer is YES!  At the very least, an email thank you should be sent, and if you really want to express gratitude, then send a hand written note of thanks.  The expression of gratitude is something basic to all our human relations.  We all have experienced helping people and enjoy and receive so much from this exchange.  Yet, when we receive that genuine expression of gratitude, we really feel connected to one another. 

So, if you are wondering if this person did send a thank you...the answer is NO.  Although I was happy to help, I was disappointed that this person may do the same thing with others as they network....I hope not.

So, when you feel hurried and think the verbal "thanks" is ok...remember it is not!  Send that email or note and genuinely express your thanks to people who give to you of their time and help.  Showing that you are a caring, genuine person is such a good thing! 

Have a great upcoming week as we approach Halloween...and let me hear from you!

Many of us share a common perspective about our job search - we will get interviews followed by offers quickly.  WRONG!  Unfortunately, no matter how successful we have been or how talented we are, job searching usually takes much longer than we think.  So, how do you keep your positive attitude going when you feel hopeless?

First, accept the fact that you will be in the job search game for awhile.  By setting reasonable expectations, you are likely to weather the periods of "nothing is happening"! 

Next, join some of the networking sites I have mentioned in previous journals.  The links are available from this blog...widen your network, get relevant information on companies and also get job leads.  By expanding your relationships, you will naturally be motivated to continue to do more searching. 

Finally, stay active - volunteer, seek part-time work and meet with friends and family.  Staying connected to your own personal networks will bring support, caring and possible leads, too!

Remember it all boils down to your attitude and expectations - it will happen, so believe!  But keep yourself focused so that you are open to all your possibilities.

Have a great day and week!

Greetings for Dr. Bamster!  How are you career bloggers doing?  Are you employed or currently looking?

With the summer behind us, I will be posting some job and career advice that keeps pace with what is happening in the current job market.  Stay tuned...and in the meantime, let me hear from you about what's happening in your local area. 

Have a great week!

OK, some of you are saying what are online networks?  Well, this is the time to get familiar with them, especially those of you who are not internet savvy.  Online networks are very useful and can quickly connect you to people and information that is amazing.

You might want to check out LinkedIn - they provide a tutorial on how to get the most out of using this networking website - and there are many groups on the site that might apply to you such as alumni groups, company groups, etc.  Also, check out SpeedNetworking.com  - a new and powerful way to get connected.  These are two amony many sites out there, however not all sites are useful so be sure to do your homework before putting any information on the site.

And, if you are not up on the latest - get familiar with Twitter and FaceBook - even if you don't use these sites, you need to know what they are about...you at least want to appear current.  Keep in mind many hiring managers use these sites and have an expectation that everyone does...you don't want to project a out-of-date impression.

Have fun exploring and have a great Memorial Day Weekend!