Career Navigation: The Power of Random Encounters

During a visit to my hometown of Boston at the end of 2022, we were seated next to a young couple, at an intimate French bistro. As can happen in a cozy setting, we fell into
conversation about our meal, our vacation activities, and careers. Karen and I discovered we shared a passion for public policy, and as I had done at her age, was pursuing a Master’s
Degree in urban planning. I know from firsthand experience, as well as from coaching students from my time working at LaGuardia Community College, the search for one’s first professional role can be particularly daunting. So I offered to help and we agreed to follow up with some
virtual online coaching.

Working together was a privilege for me, hearing about Karen’s training, skills and “dream job”. She was doing all the right things but her very strong resume wasn’t getting noticed. I advised her on how to tailor her search for prospective employers, and then on how to take a more
creative, customized approach to her communications.

In July, I received the most thoughtful update from Karen, entitled “Expressing Gratitude and Sharing Success”. She wrote:

“I’m thrilled to share that I have successfully secured a job using the method you taught me….This approach proved incredibly effective, as I landed a position not listed on the job market….The result was a fantastic opportunity that would have been inaccessible through traditional job search methods.”

Tips for Career Searches
1) Ask for Help! There’s nothing more rewarding in coaching than breakthrough results like Karen’s. If she hadn’t taken the initiative and asked for guidance, she might still be
in the midst of a long and frustrating job search. Risk random conversations! They won’t all yield, but some will connect you to new people, companies, and approaches that can
change how you go about navigating your search.

2) Be Proactive. Don’t rely exclusively on online job posting sites. You need to stand out and get noticed, and that requires getting creative approaches. Take initiative! Attend
events in your field of interest. Volunteer. Showcase your talents and interests in thoughtful, professional social media posts.

3) Keep in Touch. If people have taken the time to support your career search, keep them updated and thank them! Karen is an amazing communicator and I was so grateful that
she shared with me her success:

“I genuinely appreciate your willingness to share your experience, insights and commitment to helping me navigate my career path. Your guidance has been instrumental in my success, and I am truly grateful for your mentorship.”

If you’d like to jumpstart navigating your next career chapter, let’s be in touch! I’d welcome the opportunity to be of service with career counseling and coaching tailored to
your needs please contact me.