48
© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.
Networking and Career Searching during a pandemic?
Hi!
Looking for some tips and tricks on how to search for a job while stuck at home.
Some background, I am immensely unhappy in my current position and am dealing with a toxic boss. I spend most days either upset to the point of tears by a comment she makes or waiting on pins and needles for her to make an inappropriate comment. Yeah, my boss has the personality and cattiness of an eighth grade girl.
No problem, I’ll just find a new job, there’s plenty of those out there, until suddenly there wasn’t. Finding a job normally is tough, but now, I don’t even no where to start.
How do I network in a time where everything feels so disconnected? Is there new tactics to finding a job?
Desperately seeking new employment as my toxic boss is starting to effect my well being.
Darlene KarpaskiHelping high-performers accelerate their success
13
04/24/20 at 1:33PM UTC
Hi Catherine.
I can't imagine how it must feel to be seeking work right now. But I've been down the road of a toxic boss and how it can deeply impact your whole life.
While we cognitively KNOW that situation isn't good for us, it isn't until after you leave that notice just what impact it had on you. So I'm sending some healing energy your way.
So first things first. If you're on pins and needles and anticipating her comments in advance then your body-mind is wrapped within this traumatic pattern. When you're networking and connecting with people you want to shine brightly, but our current struggles have a way of showing up in our conversations and how we navigate the steps to getting a new position.
My recommendation may sound counter-intuitive but it's taken from my Mindful Loving work I do for clients who want more love and money in their lives.
Step #1: Turn on some healing music and forgive yourself for every inappropriate comment you may have ever made. Forgiveness releases healing hormones that calm you and bring you back to center. If you want to go wild, you can choose to forgive her for being an injured soul who perpetuates suffering.
Step #2: There ARE jobs out there and employers will be choosey. So use this time to build relationships with people who are ADJACENT to the types of people who would likely hire you. When you "friend" and actually build a connection on LI or FB etc. in the next few weeks, when businesses re-open you'll be connected to people who know people you need to know. And asking them to support your job search will feel really good because you've found creative ways to support and serve them.
Step #3: What else in addition to your work skillset do you bring to the party? How can you SERVE people now without making it about money/you?
Step #4: Be gentle with yourself. You're in a difficult situation and there are many more in the same boat. Say a prayer or whatever feels right to you. In the prayer, pray as if "It's Already Done." Our feelings are what set the stage for what comes to us, so find small and large ways to nurture your soul. And whatever you do, when she says the next inappropriate thing, in your mind bless her -- this step will DISRUPT the pattern of "comment > pain > anticipate comment > pain even when she isn't present.
For tactical job finding: Think about what industries will be in high-demand going forward and consider putting up a one page website that showcases how you help employers position themselves for accelerated results ____ (aka what your magic is).
Bottom line: Create conversations with many people in those industries. This is time to recreate yourself and take your game to the next level. Don't let this woman's wounds color your next venture.
DeLisa DawkinsReal Estate Professional, Marketing Expert
113
04/23/20 at 6:48PM UTC
Treat "getting a new job" like "a job"! Be dogmatic about your process. Subscribe to Indeed for positions sent to your inbox and make Linked in your BEST Friend!
Barb HansenStartup Product, Growth & Strategy
6.66k
04/23/20 at 4:13PM UTC
1. Just do it. Reach out to people (on FGB, LInkedIn, and in Facebook groups) who are your peers, who work for companies that might you want to work for, and who are a level or two above you in your career path. And trust your gut, if you run across someone that you want to connect with, then do it!
2. If you can afford it, (and you don't have one already) buy an upgrade on LInkedIn -- you'll get more "contact" requests. It's a month to month charge, so you can cancel at any time.
3. It's okay to send a simple message that says "I reviewed your profile and i was impressed by your work in XYZ. Can we connect?" or "I reviewed your profile and we have ABC in common, Can we connect" or "I'm looking to increase my network in job field EFG (or X city/region). Can we connect?"
4. Can it be awkward to ask for a connection? Maybe, but only the first few times you do it. Just remember that LinkedIn's mission is to "...connect the world’s professionals to make them more productive and successful" and you are allowed to use that platform to do just that -- connect with other professionals so you can be more productive and successful. And don't forget to connect with people here on FGB. there is a powerful support network here for you.
5. Find a virtual group you can join. Pre-COVID, I would have suggested going to local meetups, so you can talk to others in your profession/industry or profession adjacent, but times of changed. Some meetup groups are meeting virtually, so that might be an option for you.
6. If you feel your portfolio needs different work in (perhaps you do logo and marketing design work, and you want to add some branding work to your portfolio), You might want to investigate volunteering some hours to woman small businesses or female founders or pet rescues (whatever calls to you). I'm not saying to work for free full-time but perhaps a few hours to a limited number clients that you feel passionate about, might open different employment doors and will certainly increase your network.
You are welcome to connect with me here and on LinkedIn. I know a lot of people who hire designers (depending on what type of designer you are). My startup is not ready to hire a designer just yet (we are hiring web designer in a few months) or I would suggest that we should talk immediately.
Sue DarbyTechnical Writer ~ Business Analyst
34
05/01/20 at 5:15AM UTC
Thank you for point #3 I've been struggling with that for ages!
Ebony Joyce, Career Success Coach Helping you find a career you love!
177
04/23/20 at 1:04PM UTC
Hi,
I agree with you completely prior to Covid-19 the job market was tough with
100-200 applicants for any one job. Now it’s even more.
But companies are hiring! They’re hiring slowly. As a Career Coach I’m seeing my clients obtain virtual interviews and a few job offers with start dates that are pending for mid-May. Start the networking and job search process now! You have to have a plan. That’s the trick. Applying any and everywhere will leave you totally stressed. Develop a strategy! Good luck! Be patient in the process, but start.
Lynne CoganCareer Coach for Realizing Professional Dreams
858
04/22/20 at 11:02PM UTC
Hi Catherine.
First of all, this is networking. Commenting on other people's posts is networking. Finding people on LinkedIn who are in similar fields or work for a company you are interested in is the beginnings of networking.
Most Meetups have moved online. Find ones that you would enjoy attending and network.
FYI: Networking means developing relationships and serving others. It is best to do this before you need something for yourself, so when you do need something, others will be there for you.
Now, as far as your job search. You didn't say where you are in the process. The first three steps are: (1) Determining what you want to do, (2) Finding and researching companies where you would like to work. (3) Deciding how you specifically want and are able to make a unique and exemplary contribution to those companies. (This is true whether or not there is an actual job opening.)
Have you done any of these?
Catherine BennerFreelance Designer looking for full time work.
48
04/22/20 at 11:19PM UTC
Hi Lynne!
I am pretty deep in the job searching/applying stage. I try to send out at least one application a day.
To answer your questions:
1. I am definitely looking for something in the Graphic Design field. Preferably digital, but I am knowledgeable in print too.
2. I am mostly looking at design firms closer to home for now. I would love to work for a company that designs video games, but that is more of a dream goal.
3. I have sat down and listed my strengths and what I bring to a role. I am just starting out as far as terms of careers so I always find that list lacking.
Do you have any tips on how to come up with ideas for your third point? Mine always feel superficial and when I try to dig up anything major I have a hard time.
Thank you!
Lynne CoganCareer Coach for Realizing Professional Dreams
858
04/22/20 at 11:51PM UTC
The website and other online information might probably will state the mission, vision, values, and goals. That will give you some idea.
A public business will have its annual report on the website. Even if it isn't public, it might be on the website, however, it could be under password-protected area.
Check out industry (associations possibly) and local business publications to learn more about what the company is doing currently. For instance, it might mention a newly-won contract. That contract might benefit from your services.
Also, follow the company on social media. That could provide a lot of information.
If already have connections into the company or make them now, once you have developed a relationship, you can ask for an informational interview, so you can learn more about the inner workings of the company.
Last, I saw that your dream job is working for a company that designs video games. Games are among the things currently selling. They very well could have designers who work remotely on a regular basis, as an alternative to finding work near home.
The job might be freelance/contract, I wouldn't be concerned about that. If it is short-term, it will be great to add to your resume. Or it could turn into a full-time position over time. However, if it is freelance, be sure to set a fee that takes your expenses, self-employment tax, etc. into consideration. If this is unfamiliar territory, speak with an accountant/CPA who understands such things. They don't all.
Also, if you want to get some experience in order to attract a game designing company, you might want to check out Fiverr. You might not make a lot of money initially and it will give you experience. Plus, there are freelancers on Fiverr who earn six figures.
(I know you didn't ask about the last part and figure it might not be something you would think of.)
Anonymous
04/22/20 at 10:32PM UTC
Full disclosure, I did not read all the comments. For some immediate relief, is there any small step you can take to begin to change your relationship with your boss? Consider the possibilities; and they don't have to be big, knock it out of the park! Open up to all the possibilities, Catherine, really. You got this!
Anonymous
04/22/20 at 9:06PM UTC
Catherine,
I can completely relate with you on this subject as I was putting in 10-15 hours a day trying to satisfy a co-worker who constantly talked down to me or made me feel less that I was. I am currently unemployed and searching for a new job. My advice to you is to make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and open to recruiters. LinkedIn also offers learning that once completed will appear on your profile. I would also suggest creating a professional profile here on FGB.
DrSusanBernsteinI help women radiate head-to-toe confidence.
343
04/22/20 at 8:55PM UTC
Catherine, my heart goes out to you. If you're in a toxic job, that affects your health. So part of your way out is to set healthy boundaries, including objectively telling your boss what you need to be successful, with statements like, "I work best when I have more of _____ and less of ____." And fill those blanks in with behaviors, like "encouragement" "telling me what I did wrong."
Also, yes, this can be a great time to search for a job. Companies are hiring still. This pandemic will not last forever. We will adapt.
That said, you can really do a lot of "connecting" and "reconnecting" (I like those words better than "networking") and just tell people the ways you'd like to contribute your talents.
I'm going to be offering a webinar soon on how to keep your career. It will also be great for people who are planning a pivot. If you want details now, message me, and I'll put you on my notification list.
Wishing you alll the best!
Elizabeth Maro
1k
04/24/20 at 12:46PM UTC
Hello Susan-
I would also be interested in attending your webinar! Here I am - networking! :). It does pay off.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth M.
Lisa Lewis MillerAuthor, podcaster, coach @ GetCareerClarity.com
527
04/22/20 at 8:26PM UTC
Hey Catherine - I literally *JUST* did a webinar with Fairygodboss on job searching tips and tricks. If you email them, they can probably send you a recording of it to watch and get inspiration! Here's the event: https://fairygodboss.com/events/ByN1nBMwU/how-to-maintain-motivation-and/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=multiple&utm_campaign=careerclarity
Allyson DruckerWriter, teacher, researcher eager to relocate
69
04/22/20 at 8:25PM UTC
Hi Catherine,
I'm glad to see this question, although I'm sorry you are in this position. I'm in a similar boat. I started looking for a new job a few months before the pandemic. I keep saying to myself exactly what you wrote - finding a job normally is tough, and now, I don't know where to begin. But I'm trying to approach my search as positively and productively as I can, which is easier said than done. The situation you described absolutely affects well-being, and that makes it even harder to show up and be at our best during a virtual interview, or during the process of getting there.
That said, I have been trying to network everyday. I've been reconnecting with old friends and colleagues. It is a great time to say hi to someone from the past, and my network has grown by just by including people I already knew. The first person I reached out to was someone I hadn't spoken to in over 10 years. It was intimidating, but the response was encouraging. I think everyone is looking for a connection right now, for many different reasons. We'll see if any of this leads to a full-time job, but I know it won't hurt.
Networking and reconnecting is my advice and what I've been doing as I continue my search.
I'd love to hear advice from others about navigating this job market.
Catherine BennerFreelance Designer looking for full time work.
48
04/22/20 at 8:55PM UTC
Hi Allyson!
That’s awesome advice! It definitely helps hearing that others are as uncomfortable as I am when it comes to networking.
When I hear people say you should network it sounds so natural, but the idea of reaching out to someone about career advice feels like the furthest thing from natural.
For me, it’s taking that first step that’s the most daunting. How do you phrase a message that doesn’t sound like ‘hey! I know we haven’t talked in a while, but I’m looking for a job’? Probably just like that, but it feels weird to me, the idea of sending that message.
Do you have any tips on how to get over that awkwardness?
Changemaker197195Passionate wellness experts
12
04/24/20 at 5:57PM UTC
Thanks for sharing. At 40, I am in same toxic situation with grown female co workers!
Allyson DruckerWriter, teacher, researcher eager to relocate
69
04/22/20 at 9:40PM UTC
It is awkward! At first, I found that simply acknowledging the unnatural feeling was helpful. As soon as I acknowledged it, I could accept it, and do it. And then, it became easier. Sometimes, I still do talk myself through it to get to that point, and I also tell myself that it's ok if I don't get a response. But I've found that at least 75% of the time I do get a warm response.
As far as the wording, that might be the most awkward part! I usually say something like "your profile came across my computer" or "I was just thinking about that project we worked on together years ago." Generic wording, for sure. But I put myself in the recipient's shoes and think about how nice it is to hear from old friends and former co-workers. And then the generic becomes genuine, or at least it starts to feel and sound that way. I've also written things like "I'm looking for a job in your field/city/organization, and thought of you."
As weird as it is, I think you can say almost anything. The person on the other end is usually flattered.
I would go slow at first - reach out to people you feel more comfortable with to start. And let yourself be cautious. If I'm not comfortable with the idea that I may not receive a response, I reconsider why I'm trying to connect with that particular person and weigh the possible outcomes.
Lastly, remember that you have nothing to lose. I hate to use platitudes like that, and again, it's an idea that is easier said than done. But it something I tell myself all the time, every day these days, and it has helped me.
© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.