Now that I am back working after being on the search trail for eight months, a number of people have asked me what I did to manage my process and keep my sanity. Below is a list of six  things that worked for me, in addition to the basics. They may not work for you, but if they spark an idea of what could work for you, then my mission is accomplished. 1. Know Who You Are And What Makes You Special

• If you need help figuring this out, then get it – and fast

2. Know What You Want

• Roles, Target Companies, Culture, Relocation , etc. The more specific the better
• If you are focused and know what you want, it shows and people are more likely to help you because they know their time will not be wasted
• Be as targeted as you can and do research on the companies

3.  Tell Your Story – Consistently and Creatively

• It is the way you bring #1 and #2 to life
• Resumes: Follow basic principles/format then seek a wide variety of feedback
• Use a  Profile when you network, not a Resume (I got a ton of positive feedback on my format)
• Consider building a website and/or start a blog to tell your story (it’s not hard and it shows you are active in the digital community). Comment on other’s blogs
• Be active in your volunteer organizations (they will welcome the extra help and you’ll feel good too)

4. Make It Ridiculously Easy For People To Help You

• Get comfortable asking people for help – quickly
• Send calendar invites for networking meetings
• Send prompt follow-up and if your contact is going to introduce you to others, then write their e-mails for them (they won’t mind and it will increase the response rate)
• If you meet with a contact they recommended, let them know

5. Let People Know How You Are Doing

• Send updates every 8-10 weeks after a meeting. People genuinely want to know.
• When you land, send a note to everyone you have ever met in your search and thank them

6. Know You Are Going To Land a Great Job

• Work hard, knowing that there is not going to be a linear connection between efforts and outcomes – so stay focused on the outcome
• Think of the search as a Treasure Hunt, with each person you meet giving you a different clue

If you are in search mode, I  hope this helps.  If you have any specific questions on these six things, feel free to send me a note at dascheibenreif@gmail.com.