On 6/23/09, Michael wrote:
> On 6/22/09, Bob wrote:
>> I'm seeking advice on 2 topics tonight...the value of
>> following up and networking.
>>
>> First, following up applications. Like many others, I am
>> becoming a tad frustrated seeking my first job. Awhile
>> back, someone on this board told me that she was convinced
>> she was hired because she followed up with a letter and
>> resume to the principal...I suppose department chair is not
>> a bad choice either. Is this worthwhile...thoughts? Other
>> strategies, suggestions?
>
> Of course it is worthwhile. Good manners are always
> worthwhile. Anyone who interviewed you gets a letter thanking
> them for their time and reminding them how awesome you are.
> You never want to leave a bad impression. That letter should
> be in the mail next day at the latest. I see this as the same
> as saying hello, please, thank you, excuse me, etc. Will it
> always get you the job, of course not, but maybe it'll be that
> thing that tips the scales or maybe you're not right for them,
> but they know someone who you would be right for, which leads
> to your next topic....
>
>> Now, networking. As I have worked for years in the
>> newspaper business, I know a lot of folks with some
>> influence. Politicians, school board members,
>> superintendents, other people who are well-known in their
>> communities.
>> I have read so much lately about the value of
>> networking...that in this tough economy simply applying and
>> doing nothing else is so futile...what does everyone think
>> about my listing say my best 50/100 contacts and sending
>> them a brief note telling them of my situation and asking
>> them if they know of anyone who might be helpful. I'm
>> emailing and calling people I know well, but other folks
>> are getting a more formal letter followed by a call. It's
>> an idea...I got time...more time than I'd like.
>
> It can't hurt, but it would be better to ask in person don't
> you think? You're asking someone to go to bat for you. The
> least you could do is shake their hand and look them in the
> eye when you ask. Half of the teaching positions I've gotten
> are because I knew someone who got me in the door so I could
> prove myself. The other half, I had to let my resume speak for
> itself. You don't HAVE to know someone, but it does make life
> easier.

Jeez, thanks. I seek advice, I get talked down to. Guess I'll
proceed with a strategy I've read much about and see what
happens...if u think it's a waste of time, so be it. So far,
simply sending in applications hasn't gotten me a job, so why
not. As far as looking someone in the eye and shaking their
hand, I've been in another industry for 20 years, I've been
shaking hands and looking people straight in the eye for a long
time...it's part of building trust. Thing is, professional
protocol says u can't get to that step without first giving some
a heads up (letter, call, email) to ask if u could meet with
them. Professional people like when other seek their advice and
counsel, but u can't just walk into their offices.

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