Layoff: Informational Interviewing

One technique that outshines them all is informational interviewing. We use this approach for university students who are looking at what industry might fit them best. However, it’s and equally an excellent way for those suddenly laid off to approach the job search. Instead of being new to the workforce—you’re experienced. Nonetheless, you’re new to your situation…being unemployed and wanting to explore future options in industry categories you may never have considered. Now is the time to explore what you really want to do.

I particularly like a list of job searching tips from Pepperdine University’s business school:
Lots of good info on this page. Here are just a few highlights:

1. Make a list of friends and colleagues, especially people who have access to leaders at organizations you’re interested in and who are willing to introduce you.

2. Work the list 5-7 hours a day. That’s right…note that finding a full-time job IS a full-time job. This is not for the faint of heart.

3. If you call, the primary goal is to schedule a fact-to to face meeting. Avoid merely sending your resume. Better, MUCH better, to deliver it in person.

4. Tell the truth about your departure, even if you were fired. You may relate to the circumstances, even what you got out of the difficult experience. Denial gets you nowhere except in a jam eventually when people get the word through the grapevine and they usually do.

5. Don’t ask for a job. This is not the venue for that. Doing so only makes people defensive and ends the conversation, before it actually has time to mature and grow potential fruit.

6. The Pepperdine article noted above gives many more detail. The bottom line: Engage your friends, relatives, former business associates—everyone who knows you and would connect you if eve asked