Two elements you need at all times in the job hunt are an introduction and your contact information. When you meet people, you will be well armed to expose them with what you can do for them or for someone they know.
The contact information should be in the form of perhaps a business card or information on a mini-CD. Carry your resume, as well, whenever it’s convenient – but keep a copy in your car at all times to run out and get if needed. On a CD, you can include your resume and supporting documents, or even an entire presentation. On your business card, have your name, address, phone number, email, and a summary of skills, and a job title you are looking for (but broad enough to be considered for any such type of job in the field). You can try to be clever as long as you are professional. If you want your card to stand out, you might make it a hard card (like a credit card – it doesn’t feel like one to be thrown away), or try a different color, or see-through silver with your photo – there are lots of new styles out.
In addition, you need a “one-minute elevator speech” – meaning a verbal introduction you can give to people in the amount of time it takes to ride an elevator with any person. You need to communicate your name, that you are looking for a job, your skills, and your job goal if you have one – just a basic, quick description. Don’t make it “fluffy” or longer than 30-60 seconds (but don’t talk so fast that no one understands you).
As an example of this elevator speech, you could say, “Hi – I’m Joe Smith and I’m looking for work as an energy conservation specialist. I specialize in energy auditing and energy cycle analysis. I have written software, and published hard copy manuals. Would you know of anyone who could use this type of service, or any company that is hiring for or has such a type of position?” Add whatever is pertinent of your specialized skills and search. You will need to practice this speech and tell it to as many people as you come across in any day. This is helpful in a group setting, too, and when making introductions, such as in a networking group. Be prepared to say it to people in stores while standing in line, at parties, to the teller at the bank, etc.
Make good, quick, to-the-point introductions everywhere you go and soon you’ll make enough contacts that some of the referrals will start to work out. You’ll eventually get interviews and leads. Just make sure you are presenting a realistic story – don’t overdo it. Good luck!
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