As a career coach, I loved this book. It reinforced the work I do with my clients – helping them create a value – added statement highlighting their skills. The author also does a great job talking about the importance of networking to break into new industries. Networking is important for all career changers but critical to switchers…people changing industries.
Scattered throughout her very practical advice were great quotes like, “job search is not fair” and then she reinforced the fact that you need a mindset change, not wasting energy complaining it isn’t fair. It isn’t sometimes, get over it, change your thinking.
“Failure is NOT the opposite of success, but rather a necessary stepping stone to attain success” Switchers (people who are switching industry or types of jobs) need to accept failing occasionally and look at them learning opportunities. *Note: which fits in well with the Happenstance Theory I embrace.
And two favorites, “You can’t steal 2nd base and keep one foot on first” and “If you chase two rabbits, both will escape” which was her point about having one plan (no plan B) and putting yourself out there focusing on the best option you want.
She is a realist too, and if that plan does not work out after you have really tried, been persistent, and taken her advice, then sure, you can change plans, but be “all in” on one to start.
A couple of other tidbits I really thought were good is the mindset that the hiring manager is not necessarily trying to hire the BEST person, their instincts are to avoid loss. Switchers are a bigger risk for them and you have to be prepared to deal with their concerns when you go into the networking and interviewing process.
Negotiating. Having a negotiation on salary at the offer actually STRENGTHENS the relationship with your boss – builds relationship and you get to see how you will work together and what kind of support is there. I had not thought of negotiating in this way but really see the wisdom. I think I have tried to say something similar to my clients but this was brilliant.
Her thoughts on networking were strong as well. We (career coaches) all know the importance of networking to build relationships, but her book really drove home the importance for people who want to switch jobs. I loved her term “Micro-networking” which is all the little things you can to strengthen relationships. i.e. “liking” on social media / bringing cookies to a meeting / keep track of b-day’s / attend events and make the rounds / repost articles and offer a summary. Create ambassadors (vs just networking).
There were so many great thoughts presented here with actionable steps at the end of each chapter. The strengths of the book are in mindset changes, branding, networking, and networking. (Yes I repeated that last one on purpose).
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