The Tools of Successful Job Search. Free Ebook

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THE TOOLS OF INTELLIGENT JOB SEARCH

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Tim Tyrell-Smith
© 2010 Tim’s Strategy. All rights reserved.
If you would like to re-print or re-purpose any of this content, please use proper
attribution (Courtesy of Tim’s Strategy) and provide a link back to the site
(http://www.timsstrategy.com). Once downloaded, this e-book can be forwarded
to friends, families and networks. Enjoy!
Cover design and layout: Merlina Design

www.merlinadesign.com
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Founder, Writer, Speaker, Encourager at Tim’s Strategy

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Tim Tyrell-Smith is a 21 year veteran consumer packaged goods marketing execu-

tive. Passionate about ideas and strategy, Tim lives with his wife and 3 children in
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Mission Viejo, California.

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ii Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Contents
Introduction.................................................................................... iv
Job Search Resources.......................................................................... v
1 Watchlyst™
The #1 Networking Tool During Hard Times.............................................. 1
#1 Networking Tool For, Yes, Networking Groups....................................... 2
2 SidebySide™
How Do You Evaluate A Job Offer? Introducing SidebySide ........................... 6
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3 SoloSheet™
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The Must-Have Resume Companion. The SoloSheet..................................... 11
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4 CareerBack™
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Do You Know Your Career History? Introducing CareerBack ...........................14
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5 FlashCard™
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A New Business Card for Networking. Introducing FlashCard..........................18

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6 SipTool™
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How to Prepare For A Successful Interview.Take A Sip................................22

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7 BigPitch™
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When Your Elevator Pitch Has A Pitch Problem ..........................................27

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8 Shortcuts™
Pass-Along Job Search Advice.Introducing ShortCuts ...................................30
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9 PlateWorks™
How To Build Out Your Network During Job Search. Introducing PlateWorks....34
10 ExpenSmart™
Managing Expenses During Job Search. Introducing ExpenSmart......................36
iii Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Introduction
Welcome! On September 1st, 2008 I started writ- placed the 10 tools in a simple workbook format. You
ing a blog called Tim’s Strategy - Ideas for Job Search can either use it to build ideas, use the links to find the
Career and Life. The concept came from an analogy downloadable files or print out the entire e-workbook
I used during my own 2007 job search. Originally and use it as your job search scratch pad.
called Spin Strategy, the blog was focused on choos-
So like the first e-book (30 ideas. The Ideas of Success-
ing to do the most efficient things each day.
ful Job Search), these are practical resources. Easy to
read and easy to implement. And you can start today.
So, for my job hunt, I built a job search and network-
ing strategy based on the idea that some efforts were These are also ideas.
more efficient than others. In fact, I was wasting valu-
able time on very inefficient tasks. Once I learned I am so grateful to share these tools with you!
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where I could be most efficient, I built a plan to focus
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Now it’s your turn… who can you share them with?
my efforts. Once in place, things started to flow and I
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Feel free to e-mail this e-workbook to anyone in transi-
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had three offers within 45 days. Two of which I turned tion, out-of-work or unhappy in their current job. It
down before accepting the third a few days later. er
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may be just the boost they need! Oh, and point them
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Having a strategy and being invigorated by the result- to http://timsstrategy.com.

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ing confidence worked wonders for me. Now, as I meet

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Good luck out there!

job seekers every week, I share these ideas freely. Tim’s
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Tim Tyrell-Smith
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Strategy is my way to give back to the community that

February 2010
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helped me in 2007. And you know what? It feels really

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good to help others. send me a note with your feedback!

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I hope you enjoy this e-workbook. It represents the

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best tools from the blog since its inception. Now you
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might be asking: what’s the value of this e-workbook

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when all of the information is already out on the blog?

Well, I’ve re-edited some of the supporting posts, and
iv Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Job Search Resources
Tools for Intelligent Job Search

Tim’s Strategy Website................................................................. http://www.timsstrategy.com
Join the Linkedin® Group......................................... http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=963877
Follow on Twitter .................................................................. http://twitter.com/TimsStrategy
Become a Fan......................................................................http://facebook.com/TimsStrategy
Other Blogs I Like…

Alison Doyle............................................................................http://alisondoyle.typepad.com
Career Alley™..................................................................................... http://careeralley.com
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Career Hub..................................................................... http://www.careerhubblog.com/main
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Career Rocketeer.................................................................. http://www.careerrocketeer.com
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Career Sherpa................................................................... http://hannahmorgan.typepad.com/
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Career Solvers................................................................... http://www.careersolvers.com/blog

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Executive Resume Branding............................................... http://executiveresumebranding.com/

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Interview Angel.................................................................... http://www.interviewangel.com/

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Job-Hunt®......................................................................................http://www.job-hunt.org
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JobMob™............................................................................................... http://jobmob.co.il
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Karen Burns, Working Girl................................................ http://www.karenburnsworkinggirl.com

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Keppie Careers........................................................................http://www.keppiecareers.com
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Kevin Liebl............................................................................ http://kevinliebl.wordpress.com
Savvy JobSeeker........................................................................... http://savvyjobseeker.com
Some Assembly Required........................................................... http://thomsinger.blogspot.com
The Social Executive........................................................................ http://thesocialexec.com
Windmill Networking™........................................................ http://windmillnetworking.com/blog
Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

1 Watchlyst™
The #1 Networking Tool During Hard Times
I’ll be honest. I’ve been struggling. In the end, sometimes I can’t do it. We’re all busy, right?
I’m struggling to keep up with the requests of recruit- So you’ve probably guessed that the #1 networking
ers and job seekers who are networking with me to tool during hard times is helping friends, family,
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either find appropriate jobs or find appropriate candi- former co-workers and other worthy folks find their
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dates for current jobs. next job. Whether you are employed or working at the
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time, it simply does not matter.
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I’m not saying that I am popular in this sense. And
it’s not that the number of requests is in the hundreds. er
It also does not matter whether you are successful in
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I know that recruiters and career coaches are being this endeavor. Your effort will be remembered and the
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overwhelmed with requests as the economy hands out value to you is two-fold. First, you get to help some-
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more layoff notices each week. I am only getting my one solve a significant problem. Second, this person,
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share of requests because I have actively helped people once re-employed, will do anything to help you in the
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in the past. future. You become a person of interest, not just some-
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one they met while out of work.

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Here’s my problem. I need a simple system to connect

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the needs/desires of job seekers with the specs/require- Also, as Bill Murray’s character in Caddy Shack fa-
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ments of recruiter or other networked jobs. mously said: “Oh, uh, there won’t be any money, but
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when you die, on your deathbed, you will receive total

I belong to a number of job networks that provide
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consciousness”.
daily e-mails of new jobs - many of them not recruiter
driven. Often these are the ones you don’t hear about So, how did I solve this problem? A simple spread-
on Monster, Career Builder or Indeed. Part of the sheet. I call my solution the Watchlyst™ Here’s how
problem is that the information comes in from mul- it works:
tiple sources (phone, e-mail, conversation, etc) and my
1. Simply enter the information for each of
ability to cross-reference everything is limited. your contacts who are looking, print it out
and keep it in your briefcase or next to
Here’s a scenario: I see anywhere from 15-30 new jobs
your computer. Or even better, send them the blank
a day on these networks for positions in Southern Cali- file and ask them to fill it in and send it back!
fornia. Each nicely spells out the job requirements,
2. Every time a job comes across your e-mail,
location, title, industry of the position. I then have take a quick look at your Watchlyst and quick-
to dig back through all of the information, e-mails, ly compare for a match. If you get one, send a
resumes, notes to find the job seekers who asked for my quick e-mail with a link to the job and a helpful
help. It is painful. “Good luck!”.

3. When recruiters call, you can quickly say, yes, I Download Watchlyst
know someone or no, no one in my network fits
that description. Recruiters will appreciate a quick For those of you technically minded folks, I am also
answer. thinking about a piece of software that will do the link-
4. As new friends ask for your support, make sure ing for you, creating an auto-email. Even easier!
they help you fill in every box on this form. Any
unfilled box means you are one key piece of infor- So, help a friend. There will be plenty of thanks to
mation short in helping them find their next role. go around.
If you like this simple tool, send it on to a friend. But And be sure to join my personal watchlyst at
whether you use this tool or simply tap your photo- http://timsstrategy.com/watchlyst/
graphic memory (my oldest son is that way, too), please
take the time to network by helping others. ...
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#1 Networking Tool For, Yes, Networking Groups
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I just told you about a very simple spreadsheet called I know that many of you meet up at Starbucks for your
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the Watchlyst™. I created this to help you help others. small group and practice your elevator speech while
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As is the path of many things, it was born out of my sharing various job leads. All good stuff. But wouldn’t
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own frustration. So many people to help and no easy it be nice to bring your Watchlyst next time? What if,
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way to do so. instead of just repeating your elevator speech, everyone

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added a clear and concise closing statement. One that

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Helping others, in my opinion, is the single best way

is specifically designed to get your exact job spec on the
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to network because you build lasting relationships

Watchlyst of everyone else in the room. Pretty powerful
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(people that want to help you in return).

stuff because you now have the specific objectives of
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Well, good news, I now have permanent home for the your entire group all on one page and, more impor-
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Watchlyst spreadsheet. You can now visit the downloads tantly, they have yours.
page on the new Tim’s Strategy website. Soon to follow
If you run a networking group or participate in one,
are many other free and helpful (I hope) resources to
I need you to do me a favor. Download the Watchlyst
support your safe arrival at a new job.
and bring it with you to your next meeting.
So, in addition to telling you about the new downloads
Test it out and give me your feedback, would you?
page, I had another idea of how you could effectively
use the Watchlyst. This spreadsheet requires good in- ...
formation (like any database) and right now the job of
entering the data falls upon the person who is also the
one providing the leads. Too much too ask, perhaps.

Watchlyst™ 1.3
Job Share Assistant
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How it works: DF
1. Simply enter the 2. Every time a job 3. When recruiters call, 4. As new friends ask 5. Helpful Tip - have 6. Are you looking? 7. Avoid
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information for each of comes across your e- you can quickly say, yes, for your support, make friends prioritize fields Make sure your job duplication. We
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your contacts who are mail, take a quick look I know someone or no, sure they help you fill in (title, level) as well as objectives are on the added a new
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looking for work, print it at your Watchlyst and no one in my network every box on this form.
ith within fields Watchlyst of everyone in column to identify
out and keep it in your quickly compare for a fits that description. Any unfilled box means (healthcare, software) your network! Help what networking
briefcase or next to your match. If you get one, Recruiters will you are one key piece of so that you can add people help you by groups people are
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computer. send a quick e-mail with appreciate a quick
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information short in more intelligence to making sure that know in. Only send e-
a link to the job and a answer. W
helping them find their what jobs you forward. what you want in your mails from groups
helpful "Good luck!". next role. rit next role! that will be new to
people on your
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© Tim's Strategy http://www.timsstrategy.com

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P Watchlyst™ 1.3
Job Share Assistant
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SAP
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Note: New Auto Filter helps organize your Watchlyst by field!
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Seeks Key Words or Networking Group
Name E-Mail Address Seeks Level Seeks Function Seeks Geography Target Companies Memberships
dit Seeks Industry
Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals,
or Orange County, Northern San Finance, Financial Planning & Café Net, Saddleback,
Director Finance Medical Devices, Wholesale,
Diego County, Ventura County Analysis FENG
Business Services
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Consumer products, B2B, Financial Billabong, New Era, Burton,
CFO, VP Finance, Accounting Southern California AASE, Octane, We Are OC
services Hurley, etc
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Speed Tax, iCrossings, pre-IPO, MENG, InlandNet,
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Manager, Director, VP Marketing Software, Technology W California
start-up Spherion
VP Marketing Consumer Goods U.S. TBD MENG, ExecuNet
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VP, CMO Marketing Consumer goods, Automotive Southern California Luxury, premium MENG, ExecuNet
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Business Process Optimization
Café Net, Saddleback,
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Director Operations Services dSouthern California and Improvement. Experian.
FENG, We Are OC
First American, Disney
Investment Capital/Private Equity,
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Consumer Goods, Industrial Café Net, Laguna Niguel
VP, GM Operations Southern California TBD
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Products, Media/Gaming/ Connectors
Technology .
Café Net, Laguna Niguel
Director, VP Sales Consumer technology Southern California TBD
Connectors

Watchlyst™ 1.3
Job Share Assistant
Note: New Auto Filter helps organize your Watchlyst by field! PD

Seeks Key Words or Networking Group
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Name E-Mail Address Seeks Level Seeks Function Seeks Industry Seeks Geography Target Companies Memberships
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2 SidebySide™
How Do You Evaluate A Job Offer?

Introducing SidebySide
We all have ways (our own “end-arounds”) that allow offers without a system?
us to work through the job search process. I used anal-
So, as I did with the Watchlyst™, here is a simple
ogies to support my positive psychology during the ups
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download that can help you evaluate a job offer.
and downs. I also built a simple Excel workbook that
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allowed me to quickly and easily compare the qualita- Introducing SidebySide™, a methodology to help you
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tive and quantitative aspects of a job offer. stay objective. Again, this is a simple Excel workbook.
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How does it work? It comes in two pieces or two work-
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Of course, by the time the offer arrives, shouldn’t you
sheets within the workbook (if new to workbooks,
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know enough to be plenty ready to evaluate it?

you’ll find tabs for each worksheet at the bottom of
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Well, in my view, the process can leave you less than the page).
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ready when the offer hits your in box. Here’s some

The first worksheet is called The Quality and its objec-
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examples:
tive is to compare the characteristics of the job with
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1. Many people have not set clear objectives. They the objectives you set early on (your overall job search
don’t have specific job objectives (categories like title, strategy). This sounds terribly simple but sometimes
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industry, geography) or offer objectives (characteristics the back and forth romance of an interview process
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like base salary, bonus, vacation). While it is good to can get you close to offers for jobs that you don’t really
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interview for a number of jobs, at some point you need want. This page is designed to remind of what you said
to be ready to respond to the company with a “yes”, a you wanted when you were thinking clear and smart.
counter-offer or a “no thanks”.
The second worksheet is really simple. It is called Pros
2. After weeks of interviews, phone calls and reference/ and Cons. Here you list out all the positives and nega-
background checks, you finally get an offer. Great! tives of the offer you are considering. Less about mon-
Then you read on to see the following words: This offer ey and more about the non-financial aspects. This may
expires in 24 hours. Of course most companies don’t include the commute, the hours, company culture,
mean that exactly. But, if you are not prepared, that your office or cubicle location. Anything that matters
could feel like a bit of pressure, right? to you! This is a brainstorm so make it a nice long list!
3. You may interview for multiple jobs at once (hope- The third worksheet is called The Numbers. As you
fully!). If all goes well, the clouds will open up and the might expect, here’s where you compare the financial
glow of multiple offers will warm your face. A blessing aspects of the offer. I’ve tried to “dollarize” the key an-
to be sure. But can you effectively negotiate multiple nual terms as well as other one-time or future reward

opportunities. Again, you might say that that this is So, with SidebySide™, I hope you’ll feel a bit smarter
too much for me. Either my base will go up or it won’t, and a bit more organized as you head out of interviews
right? Well, in my view, there are so many negotiable and into the world of offer negotiation. It could also
terms in a job offer that you want to be fully aware as be a great document to share with a significant other
to the impact of each. For example, what’s a week’s - keep them in the loop and allow their opinion to
worth of vacation worth? It’s not just a piece of mind matter!
or relaxation question. The Numbers worksheet in-
Download SidebySide
cludes an input area as well as a number of cells that
calculate results. In the end, are you going to be better ...
off financially in this new job or are you taking a hit? If
so, which aspect of the offer is driving the difference.
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SideBySide™
Job Offer Assistant
Job Quality
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STEP 1: STEP 2:
To
List your job objectives Rank your job objectives
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Level: Director 5
Industry: Medical er 4
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Function: Sales 3
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Geography: Atlanta, GA 2
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Commute Time: < 30 minutes 1

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Other: Good Benefits 6

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STEP 3: STEP 4:
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Define job offer Score (1 low, 5 high)

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Level: Manager 3
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Industry: Pharmaceuticals 4
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Function: Sales 5
Geography: Atlanta, GA 5
Commute Time: 45 minutes 2
Other: Good Benefits 5
Score: 24 /30
© 2008-2010 Tim's Strategy http://www.timsstrategy.com

SideBySide™
Pro’s and Con’s
Job Quality
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PRO’S CON’S
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Type list of Pro’s here Type list of Con’s here
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SideBySide™
Job Numbers
CURRENT/LAST JOB JOB TARGET
Area Input $ Value Input $ Value
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Base Salary $100,000 $100,000 $110,000 $110,000
15% $15,000 20% $22,000
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Auto Allowance $10,000 $10,000 $10,000 $10,000
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Vacation Weeks 2 $3,846 3 $6,346
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Annual Value $128,846 $148,346

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Sign-On Bonus $5,000 $5,000 $10,000 $10,000

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401k Match* $0.25 $1,500 $0.25 $1,650

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Option Shares** NA NA 10,000 $60,000

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JOB OFFER DIFF (OFFER VS. TARGET)

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Area Input $ Value $ %

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Base Salary $120,000 $120,000 $10,000 9%

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Bonus Potential 25% $30,000 $8,000 36%

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Auto Allowance No $0 -$10,000 -100%

Vacation Weeks 3 $6,923 $577 9%
Annual Value $156,923 $8,577 6%
Sign-On Bonus Yes $7,500 -$2,500 -25%
401k Match* $0.50 $3,600 $1,950 118%
Options** 5,000 $30,000 -$30,000 -50%
* Assumes a 6% employee participation level

** Projected 5 year value
Projected Share Value $6.00

3 SoloSheet™
The Must-Have Resume Companion. The SoloSheet
Everybody looking for a job has a resume. Great. You It is a free downloadable template. Available now on
are now equal with everyone else in the world. the Tim’s Strategy website.
Some resumes are better than others and it’s important I call this a “resume companion”. Why? Because it in-
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that yours clearly outlines the value that a company cludes many of the key pieces of information from the
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can expect to find in you. And one that excites an HR resume without the burden of too much data and with
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or hiring manager about the fit and promise your back- the addition of very tangible and actionable data.
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ground suggests.
So who wins when a job seeker has a tool like the So-
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But how do you begin to differentiate yourself while loSheet™ ?

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providing a tangible tool for others to truly know

• Job seekers have a focused and very tangible pitch
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how they can help you? sheet - perfect for the quick exchanges common at
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many structured networking events.

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The answer is a relative of the “one-sheet”. A term that

• Recruiters have a simpler format from which to
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originated in the movie business, a “one-sheet” is a sin-

make quick decisions as to the fit with their client
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gle page document used to sell an idea, a concept or in

listings.
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your case, yourself. The key is that everything you need

• Fellow job seekers can now better help those they
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to know is right there on one page. A movie poster is

network with based on the additional data. Data
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the quintessential one-sheet. What else do you need to that makes lining up new friends with new jobs
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know? much easier!

So the idea of one piece of paper to sell something isn’t Now, let’s go through each section of the SoloSheet™
new. And, to be honest, the idea of a one-pager to pres- to describe how it is built differently from a resume.
ent your candidacy for jobs isn’t new either. There are a
NAME AND POSITIONING STATEMENT
number of good templates out there.
The key difference here is the positioning statement.
What amazes me is why so few people that I meet have Whether you have this on your resume or not, it is crit-
one. Is it an awareness issue? Are job seekers stuck in ical to quickly and well position yourself in a crowded
the past? Is it laziness? market. Keep it short and make sure it says key things
that make you unique.
Perhaps it is a mix of all these issues. Regardless, I have
a format that I adjusted for my own use during a 2007 SUMMARY
search that I wanted to share today. The summary is a short written paragraph that tells the
story of your positioning statement. It can prove your
11 Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

position by providing credible evidence along with a KEY COMPETENCIES
solid reason why (or two). This can be a bulleted list or a written list separated by
commas. These are 8-10 specific skills that allow some-
WORK PHILOSOPHY
one to line you up with specific job descriptions.
This statement is one that I added. It tells how I ap-
proach my work to achieve the desired results. If you TARGET ORGANIZATIONS AND GEOGRAPHY
have built up a structured thought process or method- This is perhaps the most important aspect of the So-
ology to achieve success, introduce it here. loSheet™ when used at a networking event. When fel-
low job seekers know what companies you are specifi-
WORK HISTORY
cally targeting, it is much easier for them to help. You
Unlike your resume where the details of each position
may be remembered as “the marketing person looking
provide more granular evidence of your skill and expe-
at Pepsi and Heinz”.
rience, here you are simply providing a chronological
history. One that tracks company (industry), title (pro- So . . .
motions), and dates (loyal vs. opportunistic).
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In an ideal world, there are 10 people walking out of a
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CAREER OBJECTIVE networking event with your SoloSheet™. It is marked
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Here’s another difference from the resume (at least up, key words are circled and a few stars are drawn next
mine). The SoloSheet™ includes a career objective be-
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to a few of your target organizations.
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cause it is critical that your network know what you are
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Your network now has a solid method to keep track of

looking for in your next role. It should include title,
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you, a tangible way to remember who you are and, im-

industry, geography, company size and any other data
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portantly, has an actionable list of organizations where

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that would help people assist you. The more specific

you’d like to work.
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the better.
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Easy for your network = results for you.

NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS
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These are critical. Think of the top 4 or 5 from your If you’d like to see an example of how one was filled out,
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resume for your past 2-3 jobs. The ones that, when send me a note and I’ll send you mine from 2007.
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combined, show the breadth and impact that you have

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on an organization. ...
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NAME
FOUR TO SIX WORD POSITIONING STATEMENT
Street Address Mobile #

City, state, zip E-mail address
_____________________________________________________________________________________
SUMMARY
I am . . .
_____________________________________________________________________________________
WORK PHILOSOPHY
I believe in . . .
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_____________________________________________________________________________________
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WORK HISTORY
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Company Position/Title Dates
Company Position/Title
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_____________________________________________________________________________________
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CAREER OBJECTIVE
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I am looking for . . .
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_____________________________________________________________________________________
NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS
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• Measurable and notable achievement #1

_____________________________________________________________________________________
KEY COMPETENCIES
My strengths include . . .
_____________________________________________________________________________________
TARGET ORGANIZATIONS AND GEOGRAPHY
SoloSheet™ © 2008-2010 Tim’s Strategy http://www.timsstrategy.com

4 CareerBack™
Do You Know Your Career History?

Introducing CareerBack
What’s your story? history. We’re not looking for patterns and we’re not
ready to answer the inevitable questions.
After all these years of work, have you taken the time
to look back? If you are like me, you do that every The truth is that we are not defined by these shifts. Nor
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time you change jobs or find yourself in between. It’s are we defined exclusively by our successes or failures
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natural to look back, right? over the years. Or our choice of education. Without
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knowing your story, you are forced to defend each of
Each time you do so, a new piece of your career puzzle
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these shifts as individual events. Sometimes this puts
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falls into place (the job you just finished) and you see
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job seekers in an unnecessary defensive position.
the shape of your work life adjusting to a long, con-
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sistent curve. You may also see a history filled with So here’s my suggestion. Write your history. Create a
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significant shifts. Some planned, some not. longer term position for yourself.
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These shifts might include the following: I call this your CareerBack™. You could also call it your
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• move to a new city career background or narrative. And yes, I have a free
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• shift to a new industry downloadable template for you (see next page). Your
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• break to take care of a sick family member CareerBack is written in the third person (as if you are
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• decision to start a family or stay home to take a news reporter writing an article about yourself ). This
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care of one way, you can do a proper job of highlighting your best
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• plan to become a consultant points, skills and accomplishments (often hard to do

• inspiration to start a new company properly in a resume). Most people don’t feel comfort-
able bragging on themselves. How about you?
• ratchet down to a less stressful role
• extended job search period So, what are the benefits of writing your
Of course there are more, but these are the ones that CareerBack?
I’ve seen most often over the years reviewing resumes 1. It forces you to stop and think about who you are
and talking with job seekers. All of these shifts are and what the years of experience have helped you be-
common, natural life events. So why are they so hard come. If you are out of work, what better use of your
to explain to someone when the question comes up in extra time? When it comes time to interview, you will
an interview? have the ability to talk about those career shifts (above)
in context and without a defensive posture.
Well, I think one of the reasons is that many of us
have not taken the time to know and understand our

2. It allows you to put your total career in perspec- Career Narrative
tive without the drowning noise of one or two expe- Here you detail each position you’ve held by putting
riences (positive or negative). With perspective, you some skin on the bones from your resume. Explain the
can position yourself to others in ways that are more context in which you were working and provide more
top level and convincing. If you have downloaded my details on the impact you had while there. And, at the
SoloSheet™, you will have written or will need to write end of each position review, describe why you left that
a positioning statement. The knowledge to write it company.
does not come easily - without a longer look at your
Education and Personal Details
career.
Includes your education history and details that help
3. If you are working with a recruiter and have been someone to get to know you a bit. You are not defined
identified as a candidate they’d like to present to a cli- solely by your work, but by a broader view of your
ent, you have already done a key job for them. Often life.
a recruiter (especially a retained search recruiter) will
Overall, think about writing 2 or 3 pages maximum.
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write a narrative about you for the hiring manager to
While this document is intended to be read as a story
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review. Not only have you done the job for them, but
by someone who is already interested in you, do not be
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you’ve written it! And hopefully, with this creative li-
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wordy. Be interesting in as few words as possible.
cense, you have delivered an honest and compelling
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advertisement for yourself. As with the SoloSheet, I am happy to send a copy of
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my CareerBack from 2007 as an example. Just send

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This one is actually pretty simple. There are three

me a note!
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sections:
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Good luck and make sure to take the time to do this

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Background
one right!
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This is a longer version of your career summary (from

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the SoloSheet) and can include your work philosophy. You can download CareerBack here.
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It more completely explains your unique abilities to

...
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succeed and the ways in which you’ve done so in your

career to date.
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NAME
Background
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Career Narrative
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NAME
Career Narrative
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Education and Personal Details

5 FlashCard™
A New Business Card for Networking.

Introducing FlashCard.
If you haven’t been following along, much of my effort Now, for the rest of you who are not using business
lately has been in developing tools. For you. Tools to cards as part of your job search communication strat-
help maximize your effort during job search. And they egy, it’s time to get started. Why? Well, it gives you a
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are all free. very common and socially accepted tool in business. It
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also helps you feel valuable and shows personal pride.
OK, I guess they are not totally free. If you would, I’d
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OK, so it makes you feel like you are still in business.
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love to count you as a regular blog reader. And I’d love
Great.
it if you would tell your friends about the blog and the er
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tools. Mostly free, I guess. But most cards I’ve seen are bland and include very
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little information for someone to take-away from your

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This most recent series of tools has been about estab-

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encounter. Certainly nothing actionable.

lishing a solid set of personal marketing materials. I
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call the whole set my Full Pitch™ series as I hope they So I created a new format that I’d like you to consider. It
help you hit the street with confidence. Confidence, a gets key data about you onto a very portable item. One
ito
Ed
really good sense of who you are and what specific ways that, once properly filled out, will make for a great re-
you can positively impact the people you’ll be meeting minder of how someone in your network can help you.
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that day.
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And I came up with a name for them. Sorry, I can’t

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So far, you’ve seen the SoloSheet™. A one-sheet tem- help it. I’m a marketing guy.
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plate that gets all of your critical information onto

Instead of a business card, I call it a FlashCard™. Why
one, easy-to-digest page. It includes data that will help
a FlashCard, you ask? Well, simply, it allows people
your network help you - something a resume does not
to remember you and, this is crucial, your specific job
accomplish.
objectives… in a flash.
Today I have another FREE download to share. Like
So, on the front is much of the standard info (name,
the SoloSheet, this download is my version of some-
e-mail, phone number) you might expect. What’s
thing that is not new. It is a template for a business
been added is your positioning statement (right off
card you can use while networking.
your one-sheet and resume), 4-6 key strengths (to help
Now for all of you who already have a personal busi- people line you up with specifics on a job description)
ness card, be patient with this next paragraph. You are and your Linkedin profile (make sure that your profile
one step ahead. is fully filled out and represents you well). Overall, the
front tells people who you are and how they can get in

touch with you. I also left some room at the top if you should receive that new job lead.
wanted to add a design element.
Your job is to get your objectives on the Watchlyst of as
The back is where the FlashCard becomes highly ac- many people as you can. If successful, you will receive
tionable. While I do not recommend putting career more qualified leads and your network will feel good
objectives on a resume, it is crucial that your one-sheet that they were able to help. If you are not a Watchlyst
and business card have them. These are the two key user or do not see the value, you can easily take that
documents that you will use in networking, right? copy off the template when you design your cards.
How can someone effectively help you if they forget
Here’s how the template works. This is a Microsoft
your objectives? Be as specific as you can and you will
Word template file (.dot). Once downloaded, you can
get good leads in return. Make sure to include 5-6
create your cards (front and back) pretty quickly. I did
target companies. Not everyone you are targeting, but
mine by purchasing an Avery product (#8877) called
ones that will help people as they see a job flying by in
Clean Edge business cards. You can pick them up at
their in-box.
any office superstore. I like this method because you
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You may notice the last line on the back: can print as many as you want. If you want to change
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anything on the card, you can do it any time and be
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Add me to your Watchlyst™ at www.timsstrategy.com
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back on the street that same night!
Not familiar with the Watchlyst? Basically, it is a net- er
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Of course, you can get cards printed many ways.
working tool that helps you keep track of the job objec-
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tives of those in your network looking for a job. Me? Here is the online template if you need it… and, good
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Help other job seekers? Yes, absolutely. The Watchlyst luck out there.
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gets everything on one sheet so you no longer have

...
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to shuffle through a pile of resumes to figure out who

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[FRONT]
NAME NAME
Positioning Statement (4-6 words) Positioning Statement (4-6 words)
• Key Strength 1 • Key Strength 4 • Key Strength 1 • Key Strength 4

EMAIL PHONE EMAIL PHONE

Linkedin Profile Linkedin Profile
NAME NAME

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NAME er
NAME
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NAME NAME
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NAME NAME


[BACK]
CAREER OBJECTIVES CAREER OBJECTIVES
Title: Title:
Function: Function:
Industry: Industry:
Geography: Geography:
Target Companies: Target Companies:
Add me to your Watchlyst™ at www.timsstrategy.com Add me to your Watchlyst™ at www.timsstrategy.com
Title: Title:
Function: Function:
Industry: Industry:
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Title: Title:
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Function: Function:
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Industry: Industry:
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Title: Title:
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Function: Function:
Industry: Industry:
Title: Title:
Function: Function:
Industry: Industry:

6 SipTool™
How to Prepare For A Successful Interview.

Take A Sip
So, I mentioned a few days ago that I was working on much pressure on the upcoming day. You cram as much
an interview preparation tool. Well, if you think I am thinking as possible into your preparation and, as a re-
heading over the deep end with all the tools, you’d be sult, ignore all other potential opportunities. You stop
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partly right. The problem is that the feedback has been networking and perhaps are slow to call back recruiters
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pretty good on the others. So you’ll just have to put up or HR managers. Why would you, right? A great job is
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with a few more. And maybe a few more after that… just a few days away!
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Sip™ is designed to walk you through a structured er
Here are a few risks of a hyper focus on one
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process to prepare for a strong and focused interview. opportunity:
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Strong preparation supports a confident and direct

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1. As stated above, your focus on the upcoming in-

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conversation about your real skills and your ability to

terview leaves you unfocused on other opportunities.
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immediately impact the interview team.

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And, in my experience, opportunities come in waves

While it is thorough in some ways, it is not intended of twos and threes.
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Ed
to cover every possible angle. Because truly you can kill

2. Pushing hard on two or three opportunities pro-
yourself preparing for unlikely questions.
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vides perspective and takes some pressure off each indi-

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What I like about these tools is the structured process vidual interview. Less pressure means you can be your
Fi
they force you through. Especially during job search confident self, realizing that all is not riding on this
PD
- where it is easy to get subjective/emotional - your one day.

ability to remain focused and smart will help you in so
3. If you don’t get an immediate call back or you don’t
many ways. How?
eventually get an offer, it can put you in a sour mood
Simple example: for weeks. If it was not meant to be, you need to be
able to let it go. Easier to do when other calls or meet-
It’s been eight weeks since you were laid off and you’ve
ings are already scheduled for next week.
had no interviews. You finally get a phone interview
and, surprise, you are offered a first round in-person So, what does a smart interview preparation tool
interview at a target company. Great news all the way look like? Oh, and how can I get one?
around, right? So where’s the issue?
Well, to me, it breaks down like this:
The issue is that the eight week wait likely has you
Company Name. Interview Date. Location and
hyper-focused on this new job opportunity. Mostly a
Start Time.
good thing. But the risk is that your focus puts too

Whether you have two weeks or two days to prepare, it their entire career in this industry? If the hiring man-
is important to start with the basics. Map the location ager has been in his/her position for less than a year,
and drive it a day or two before the interview. Drive it they will be more likely to listen to messages of change
at the same time you’ll be driving a day or two later. than if they’ve been in that role for 10 years. A more
Arrive early. This helps you relax. established manager may be more defensive to a more
aggressive approach. This knowledge also helps in de-
Company History and Culture.
veloping a person-specific list of questions.
You can learn a great deal from a look at where a com-
pany has been. Have there been struggles (financial or Key Product Review And Usage Results
strategic)? Is it a new product rich environment or a Whether the company makes widgets, rents cars, makes
company relying upon historical products or services music videos or builds condos, find a way to get some
to succeed today. What do these things say about the personal experience with their product or service. For
culture? Importance of innovation? This may be an example, prior to my interview with a company that
important component for you as you identify a target makes car wax in 2005, guess what I did? I washed
company. and waxed my car. Twice. Really? Absolutely. And it
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made a huge difference in the interview. I was able to
Industry Trends and Competitive Review
give them personal feedback on my experience with
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What’s happening in the company’s industry may have
their products and it showed an early engagement and
an impact on its decision making. Are there any large
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interest in their products. The other value? My car was
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macro issues facing them and their competitors? For
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sparkling on interview day - something they look for

example, are they uniquely impacted by high gas pric-
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in candidates. So, ask yourself, how can you show a

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es? Who are their competitors and what are their new
similar interest in the products or services of your tar-
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products. Does the company have number one brands

get company? Of course, if you work in certain indus-
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or is it a second tier company in a very competitive

tries (Bio Tech or Pharmaceuticals) you may have to
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category?
be careful!
Ed
Now, before I go any further, you might be saying to

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Specific Job Requirements vs. My Strengths and

yourself: “But I’m looking for an IT job! Why do I
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Experiences
need to know all of this?” It may be that you don’t
As simple as it sounds, list out the requirements and
Fi
need to know all this information, but depending on

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how you line up against them. Part of your job in this

who you meet, a knowledge of the company and its
first interview is to prove (through a deeper look and
culture cannot hurt you!
via specific examples) your excellent fit with the job
Company Strategy and Recent Results description the company worked so hard to create.
What is the stated objective of the company? Where Know where you are especially strong and where you
is it looking to go? If you are in IT, what might be may have to try a bit harder.
the impact be on the company’s use of technology? Is
Identify Three Relevant and Measurable Successful
the company riding a few big recent successes? Has it
Experiences
struggled to get traction?
Be prepared to tell a great set of stories about how
Interview Team Vetting you’ve had a significant impact on other companies.
Who will interview you? Can you find out in advance? And be able to relate them back to the challenges or
If so, look them up on Google or Linkedin. How long opportunities described by the hiring company. Be
have they worked for the company? Have they spent ready to describe in a compelling way how these expe-

riences make you uniquely qualified to step into this What do you want them saying? Was it your energy?
new role and succeed. Tomorrow. Your breakthrough ideas? Your work ethic?
Questions? Beginning. Middle. End. Post Interview Reactions

Be prepared to show a genuine interest in the ways of So you survived. Now before you turn on the AC and
the company, the hiring manager, the current challeng- pull out on down the road, take a few minutes to jot
es, the team, etc. And make sure you have questions down your initial reactions. What does your gut say?
prepared for each part of the interview. Early on, try a Bubbling with excitement or really unsure? You need
question that establishes a more conversational tone to to react to the people but you also need to react to the
the interview vs. a traditional Q&A format. Questions messages and the energy of the office environment. For
in the middle should show your depth of thinking and example, if you are a people person and no one smiled
allow you to learn key details to help you cement fit at you during your walk-through, what might that tell
with the position. Questions at the end should show you?
your interest in the company’s future and perhaps the
There. That’s my Sip™. You can download the online
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role that the department might play.
template here if that helps you.
To
Positioning Objective
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Download Sip
How would you like to be remembered by each inter-
viewer? In addition to your being a great fit with the er
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I hope it helps you prepare for your next interview.
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job description and, hopefully, a good fit culturally and Even more, I hope it helps you focus and feel smart as
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personally, what will make you the ideal candidate? you step into the office of your first interviewer. Oh,
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What will be the one thing that makes an interviewer and I hope you knock their socks off.
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gush over you in the post-interview wrap-up. You are

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in the car heading home. They are talking about you. ...
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Ed
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Sip™
Smart Interview Preparation
Company Name: Interview Date:

Location: First Interview Time:
Company History and Culture:
Industry Trends and Competitor Review:
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To
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Company Strategy and Recent Results: er
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Interview Team Vetting (name, title, Google or Linkedin findings):

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Ed
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2.
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3.
4.
5.
Key Product Review and Usage Results:

Sip™
Smart Interview Preparation
Specific Job Requirements My Strengths and Experience

1. Example 1 Fit rating 1-5
2.
3.
4.
5.
Three Relevant and Tangible Successes or Experiences:

1.
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My Questions:
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Beginning
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1.
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2.
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Middle
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End/Summary
1.
2.
Positioning Objective for Today:
Post-Interview Instant Reactions:

7 BigPitch™
When Your Elevator Pitch Has A Pitch Problem
Is it safe to assume that everyone in America has some people have a hard time controlling their pitch. Of
watched American Idol? Based on the vote tally each course, there are ways to correct pitch problems.”
week during the season, I think it is a fair bet. And if
We all do our own judging when out at networking
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you’ve seen the show, you’ve seen the caricatures that
events, don’t we? I know I do. I love to listen to the
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do the judging. The caricatures include hip/cool, sure/
variety of voices and accents. I also love to hear what
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sensible, loving/kind and rude/contrarian. They play
an
people actually say and wonder whether that was what
their roles pretty well, actually. As if they were reading
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they planned to say. Are they off key or just new at
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off a script… hmmm.
sharing their careers with others?
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One of the key things we are supposed to be listening

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So, in this post I’d like to to help you with your pitch
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for during American Idol is something called “pitch”.

problems. If you have them, that is. I’ll tell you my
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According to one caricature (Randy), singers on idol

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top 10 keys to an effective elevator pitch. So, without

can be a little “pitchy”. Well, I never really looked for a
further delay . . .
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specific definition for the word. So tonight as I began

Ed
to think about your elevator pitch, I figured this was a

DF
pretty good time to get the definition right.

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Top 10 Keys To An Effective Elevator Pitch

So, if you want info on pitch, where do you go? Well,
Fi
1. Speak up! If everyone in the room or around the

PD
here at Spin Strategy, we went to the folks at Sing Like A

Pro. Why? Wouldn’t you? table can’t hear you, you’ve already lost. Use your out-
side voice when inside or outside. It helps you com-
mand the group’s attention and makes a statement that
what you are saying is worth hearing. And, you know
The link above tells you everything you’d probably want
what, if I can’t hear your first few words, I’ll stop trying
to know about pitch. But, a short summary from the
too hard.
site can be found below:
2. Look at your audience! Yes, every one of them if
“Going off pitch when singing is also called going “off key”,
you can. If the group has a leader and you address all
and it means that you sing a slightly different note then
of your comments to them, well, you lost me again.
you intended to. Usually, you end up hitting a note that’s a
Oh, and everyone else in the room who was previously
little bit higher or lower then what you were aiming for.
open to learning about you is also off in wonder land.
This is called going sharp (a little too high) or flat, which
is a little too low. Everyone goes off key sometimes, but

3. Like to talk? Engage your filter! If the rules say forget about you. Or at least forget why they thought
30 or 60 seconds, please don’t take twice that time. It they should remember you. How do you do this? Build
is unfair to the others especially as networking groups the objectives into your one sheet or networking card.
get larger and require more time for this part of the Also, make sure to throw out the names of a few tar-
meeting. Even more important? You lose people after a get companies. Oh, and share your Watchlyst with the
minute and you may not even have reached your best group. That way they can keep track of you and others
information yet. much easier!
4. Stand up and move around! Please don’t sit. Don’t 9. Be Interesting! Find a way to make your career ac-
stand next to your seat. And once up in the front of the complishments relevant and interesting to everyone.
room, try to move around a bit. Your physical move- Avoid using industry specific jargon that only you and
ment, like the strength of your voice, helps to send a few others will understand. Use brief and specific ex-
a message that you are sharing something interesting. amples of what makes you different from everyone else
What does it mean to move around “a bit”? Two or who sat in those chairs. I am sitting here waiting for
three steps each way is fine. If you find yourself across you to say something that will allow me to remember
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the room after 10 seconds, rein yourself in. you. What are you passionate about? Really!
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5. Pauses, small breaths and other ways to create em- 10. Recognize others! If you heard something inter-
phasis. I’ve heard a few people give an elevator pitch
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esting from another networker who spoke before you,
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that sounded more like a speed reading. Remember, re-emphasize it. That says to the group that you were lis-
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this should be conversational. So, pause after an im- tening earlier and have more than just your own success
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portant point or a big accomplishment. Place emphasis in mind. You may also create an opportunity for further
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on certain other points you want people to remember. networking with that person as the open networking
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Be in control of what people hear and what ends up portion begins. This is networking with a purpose.
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on the floor.
Of course this discussion has been almost entirely fo-
Ed
6. Smile and be approachable! Being in transition cused on the most common format for the modern el-
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does not warrant a eulogy. Your elevator pitch is not a evator speech.
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time to be solemn, over-confident or otherwise serious.

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You. Standing in front of 10-50 people. No elevator.

You can be confident about your skills and experience
PD
And a timer (if the group is lucky).

but make sure your delivery creates interest and fol-
lowers. Ever heard the “how great I am” elevator pitch? Really this is more of an introduction, isn’t it?
Ever want to go up and introduce yourself to that per-
son after? Me neither. You are introducing yourself to the network that may
be able to help you find your next job.
7. Offer to help others! An elevator pitch that is solely
focused on your transition needs will not garner the So here’s a format for your introduction that may help.
genuine attention and interest of others. Nope. Every- It’s called BigPitch™ because it’s just you.
one has something to offer. So make sure you include In front of a big room or a big group of people . . .
something selfless in your words.
Download BigPitch
8. Include your specific job objectives! What are you
looking for in your search? If you don’t provide specific Nice to meet you. I hope.
and tangible objectives to your network, they will likely
...

BigPitch™
Your Introduction In 30-60 Seconds
Name
Positioning Statement
(4-6 words that uniquely define you)
Provide A Brief Career Summary

(industry, function, key accomplishments)
What Is Your Work Philosophy?
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(method or style you’ve used to succeed)
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What Are Your Job Search Or Business Networking Objectives?
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(industry, function, target, level, geography, target companies)

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How You Can You Help Others?

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(skills, network, templates)

Ed
DF
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A FEW HINTS:
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PD
Be concise
Be interesting, not cute
Make eye contact
Smile
Be memorable
Have a passion? Include it.
© 2008-2010 Tim’s Strategy http://timsstrategy.com

8 Shortcuts™
Pass-Along Job Search Advice.

Introducing ShortCuts
OK, Now it’s your turn to shine. You may even really miss the freedoms of not having a
9 to 5. Sharing your experiences with others will help
This post is inspired by a number of people in my net-
close the book.
work. One who helped during my 2007 search and one
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who recently arrived at a new job. 2. You will help others. As you “transition out” there
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are always people transitioning in. Do you think they’d
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They took the time to share their job search experience
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appreciate your advice? Absolutely! I talk to a number
with others. And what a great thing to do.
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of job seekers that are even just a month in to their
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You see, at some point, all of you will also arrive at a search and you know what they say? “How can I help.
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new job. Yes, this will all be over. And after 4 weeks, I’ve only been out a month!”. Well, you’d be surprised
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3 months or one year you have learned a few things how far along you are vs. others just kicking off their
ith
about job search. Things that will die in your mind search. Your advice will become a primer for others.
rw
unless you create a way to share it with others. You may even kick off a new permanent networking
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career (recommended) as people call and say “Thanks

Ed
Think of it like a post-mortem you would do on a busi- for your advice, can I buy you a cup of coffee?”
DF
ness project. What did you do right? What mistakes

3. It’s a good practice. Doing a good post-mortem is
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were made and what would you do differently next

key to succeeding in business. Perhaps your doing one
Fi
time? All great stuff.

PD
after your job search (if you’ve never done one before)
Now some of you are thinking one of the following: will give you a new tool to impress your boss in the
1. Good idea, but my focus is on the new job. new job.
2. I struggled in job search. What can I teach others? 4. You’ll use it again. This new economy may put
3. I’d rather wash my memory of it all. all employees in a state of perpetual search. An up-
I won’t blame you for thinking any of that. Makes to-date guide to job search may come in handy again.
sense. But let me give you a few reasons to re-consider Think you’ll remember all the resources you utilized?
this idea:
5. It’s a low effort solution. Once written, you will
1. It will be therapeutic. Because as you transition out have a document you can easily send to folks needing
of job search and into your new job there will likely be advice. And if you don’t have time in the new job to
some misgivings. Perhaps still some healing required. meet for coffee, at least you can share your experiences
Anger about having been put through all of that ef- on paper.
fort (networking, resume writing, interviewing, etc).

So I’ve created a FREE download that will make it re- Almost everyone I talk to in transition is learning some-
ally easy to share your ShortCuts™ with others. Page thing about themselves as a result. For some, it is how
1 includes information from this blog post. Page 2 is much they miss working. For others it reminds them
the actual word template. Once you fill in the details of how badly they want to have this kind of “freedom”
from your job search experience, you can save it to more often in life. Some of those look to this time to
your desktop. start a new business.
Once saved, you can send your version to your net- Whatever your learning during job search. All that I
work via e-mail after you arrive at a new job. You can suggest is that you share it with others.
share it with people you meet over the coming months
And remember, send me a note if you’d like to share
who ask you for transition advice. You can add it to
yours with others via Tim’s Strategy.
your blog.
Or you can send it to me and I will pick a few to in-

clude here at the Tim’s Strategy blog. Interested?
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OK, here you go:
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Download ShortCuts 1.0
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ShortCuts™
Pass-Along Job Search Advice
“You see, at some point, all of you will also arrive at a new job. Yes,
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this will all be over. And after 4 weeks, 3 months or one year you have
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learned a few things about job search. Things that will die in your mind
unless you create a way to share it with others.”
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So, why ShortCuts? You will help others. As you transition out there are
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people transitioning in. Do you think they'd
Well, you are now a resource to help others avoid the appreciate your advice? Absolutely! I talk to a
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long nights of research required to learn the game of number of job seekers that are even just a month in
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job search. The work to identify networking groups to their search and you know what they say? "How
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in your area. can I help? I've only been out a month!" Well, you'd
be surprised how far along you are vs. others just
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kicking off their search. Your advice will become a

Think of it like a post-mortem you would do on a
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primer for others. You may even kick off a new

business project. What did you do right? What
permanent networking career (recommended) as
Ed
mistakes were made and what would you do

people call and say "Thanks for your advice, can I buy
differently next time? All great stuff.
DF
you a cup of coffee?"

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Now some of you are thinking one of the following: It's a good practice. Doing a good post-mortem is
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key to succeeding in business. Perhaps your writing

one after your job search (if you've never done one
PD
- Good idea, but my focus is on the new job.

before) will give you a new tool to impress your boss
- I struggled in job search. What can I teach others? in the new job.
You'll use it again. This new economy may put all

- I'd rather wash my memory of it all.
employees in a state of perpetual search. A up-to-
date guide to job search may come in handy again.
I won't blame you for thinking any of that. Makes
Think you'll remember all the resources you utilized?
sense. But let me give you a few reasons to re-
consider this idea:
It’s a low effort solution. Once written you will
have a document you can easily send to folks needing
It will be therapeutic. Because as you transition out advice. And if you don't have time in the new job to
of job search and into your new job there will likely meet for coffee, at least you can share your
be some misgivings. Perhaps still some healing experiences on paper.
required. You may have anger about having been put
through all of that effort (networking, resume
writing, interviewing, etc). You may even really miss OK, Now it's your turn to shine.
the freedoms of not having a 9 to 5. Sharing your
experiences with others will help close book. What’s your story?
ShortCuts™ © 2008-2010 Tim’s Strategy™ http://www.timsstrategy.com

My ShortCuts™
WRITTEN BY (YOUR NAME)
Link to Linkedin Profile Mobile #

City, state E-mail address
_____________________________________________________________________________________
My Favorite Online Resources
Include blogs, websites, networking sites, Linkedin groups, social media . . .
_____________________________________________________________________________________
My Favorite Networking Groups
These are groups that had helpful in-person groups with speakers. Note cost (if any) and value . . .
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_____________________________________________________________________________________
To
Mistakes I Made Along The Way
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Too much time spent on certain websites, bad investments, other time wasters . . .
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_____________________________________________________________________________________
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My Favorite Career Professionals

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Your work with a great career coach, resume writer, personal branding expert . . . include names
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and contact info . . .

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_____________________________________________________________________________________
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What Specific Efforts Led To The New Job

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Tell the story of how you found your job. The more detail the better . . .
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_____________________________________________________________________________________
The Best Advice I Got During Job Search
This is the one thing that guided you and provided the confidence to keep pushing . . . include
source and link . . .
_____________________________________________________________________________________
The Things I Am So Thankful I Did During Job Search
Things like: picked my kids up from school everyday, finished a book I’d been writing, explored
long delayed idea or hobby . . .
ShortCuts™ © 2008-2010 Tim’s Strategy http://www.timsstrategy.com

9 PlateWorks™
How To Build Out Your Network During Job Search.

Introducing PlateWorks
I’d like to re-introduce a core tool. One that you may The basis for this tool goes all the way back to the be-
have once seen on the website. If you live in Southern ginning for Tim’s Strategy. It is based on the analogy
California, you may also have heard me describe its of plate spinning. Decide what plates you want to spin
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value in a local presentation. I have really enjoyed the (there are a ton to choose from) and how often. This
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opportunity to get out and speak. Very cool. includes some work on your part to figure out the ca-
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pacity of your “plates” to help you and their willingness
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PlateWorks™. uses a plate identification tool to
to do so. To spin a plate means to utilize it. To engage
define the networks you want to tap. I wanted to er
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it. I.E. call them, ask for a meeting, ask for a referral.
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re-introduce it because I still meet so many peo-
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ple who are networking the old fashioned way: So if you know someone who is missing breadth in
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using too small of a network and using it inef- their job search and networking strategy. Or if you
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ficiently. And not using social media tools like know someone who is not fully utilizing their poten-
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Linkedin, Twitter and Facebook. tial network, perhaps PlateWorks™ can help. Simple,
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I’ll admit. But what makes up the foundation of an

Ed
So this tool asks one simple thing of you. Identify all of

effective effort often is just that simple.
DF
the people in your world who can help you find a job.
It includes a short list of all the possible people you So here is the PlateWorks™ download. Please share
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might interact with in life and provides a place for you your feedback as always. I read it all . . .
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to build out your own network. You will likely identify

Download PlateWorks
others, of course.

PlateWorks™ 1.0
Building Your Job Search Network
This tool iis based on the analogy of plate spinning. In job search, you need a broad network and a plan as to how you will use it. OK, let's get started. Please use the examples below to identify your plates:
Recruiters School PTA Search Engines Career Coach Neighbors

Network Groups Professional Groups Linkedin Fraternity Former Vendors
College Alums Kids Sports Softball Team Church Spouse
Gym Members Former Boss Former Employees Accountant Barber/Stylist
Personal Trainer Kids Teacher
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Chiropractor Optometrist Veterinarian Mechanic Real Estate Agent
Lawyer Barista Fi Kids/Parents Contractor Travel Agent
Twitter Facebook ll P
Take time to think about all the people in your life that would have an interest in your success and, importantly, could play a role in it. These are your plates.
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4 5 6 7
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15 16 17 18 19 20 21
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10 ExpenSmart™
Managing Expenses During Job Search.

Introducing ExpenSmart
We all have good intentions about budgeting. We It allows for financial transitions (severance to other
know its value. But very few of us do it. income; company paid insurance to COBRA)
-But while in transition (in between jobs) it can be It helps you to both identify today’s expenses as well as
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critical to the financial and emotional health of your plan for future ones
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home during hard times.
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It allows for incomes from a variety of sources, includ-
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As I look back at the category listing for this blog, I ing severance payments (monthly or as a lump sum)
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was surprised to see that this is only my fourth article
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It identifies the expected gap between transition in-

on the topic of job search expenses. Seems odd that
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come and total expenses then allows for prioritization

such an important topic would not get the love that
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of funds to fill the gap.

other topics have received. Shame on me.
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Is a budget really all that important if I have a sever-

Just to catch you up, here are the other articles I’ve
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ance check coming for the next few months?

written directly on this topic:
Ed
Well, yes. Perhaps even more so. Whether you have help
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When You Are The Sole Breadwinner

for a few months or a strong savings account, your goal
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Job Search - Avoiding A Personal Bailout

should be to spend as little of that money as possible.
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How Much Money Should I Spend To Find A Job?

So, in addition to a strong job search strategy, you’d
PD
better have one for your financial situation, right? The

So this article is about identifying and planning your
money you save today, may extend you another week
expenses during job search. And this includes your
or two on the other side.
regular expenses as well as those specifically focused
on finding your next great role. That includes having a strong knowledge of your cur-
I updated a tool that I used in my last search and gave rent spending habits, a budget that reflects necessities
it a name. And now I’m giving it to you. For your use not luxuries and, importantly, includes a smart psychol-
and, hopefully, your feedback. ogy about the speed in which your job search will end.
Now, to be fair, there are many other tools on the web for A few months ago I wrote about the danger of being an
managing a budget. Some more detailed and more high optimist during job search and let me just say that your
tech than this one. So, what makes this one different? transition budget is not the place to be optimistic.
It includes specific line items for job search expenses

(resume help, career coaching, job sites)

Hopes that your search will end weeks or months something that a few months ago would have been a
prior to your severance check drying up can meet no-brainer. Sometimes you will be the one giving that
with a painful reality. direction to a spouse. Other times, your spouse (the
financial driver in the house) will bring you to your
Instead of making smart cuts in the beginning and bal-
knees with “we can’t afford that (insert something im-
ancing out the pain, you either end up making severe
portant here)”.
and immediate cuts or dig deeper into savings than you
intended. If you can fill this out in advance of your transition
beginning, that is ideal. If you get a heads up on a lay-
The tool is called ExpenSmart™.
off. If not, do the best you can to track your actuals.
So, how does it work? Well, it is an Excel workbook And remember that this is one month. Pay attention to
with three tabs. If you’ve never used an Excel work- any unique aspects that you may need to adjust for as
book, look at the very bottom for tabs that you can you begin projecting future expenses. Was your learn-
click to find each spreadsheet. ing month “back to school month” or a big birthday
month for family? Adjust accordingly.
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TAB 1 - How To Use
To
TAB 3 - Planning Months - Budget
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If you find the tool via this post (see download link at
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the very bottom of this post), you won’t need to read Now that you have a sense of your real spending habits
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this tab unless you need a refresher. Everything on that (or at least a real month), you can begin projecting for-
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tab can also be found here. ward based on known expenses and estimated variable
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expenses (i.e. food, utilities, entertainment).

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TAB 2 - Learning Month - Actuals

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In Tab 3, you plan out three to six months keeping in

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This worksheet is here to help you be honest with your- mind the time of year and using knowledge of your
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self. One of the biggest mistakes that we make in bud- seasonal spending habits to adjust monthly projections
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geting is assuming a bad number. We think we spend as necessary.

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X on food each month when it is actually Y. Here’s

what you do. Track your actual expenses everyday for Concerning income, if your transition takes you from
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a month. Keep the spreadsheet up on your computer two incomes to one or from one to none, the spread-
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and log in every single expense, cash or credit, into the sheet allows you to plan for either scenario and plan
spreadsheet. Ask for a receipt. For everything. Daily. for the availability and eventual dissipation of a regu-
lar severance check. If your severance check is a lump
Is it painful? Yes. Does it feel like overkill? Of course. It sum, look to the bottom of the spreadsheet to identify
will also take a lot of your time to do it right. it along with any other lump sum amounts you may
But if you think you have a handle on your actual ex- need to tap.
penses when you have a big paycheck coming in like a For job search expenses, part of your strategy should
fire hose . . . and you are wrong. You will be especially be your use of paid resources to help you find your
frustrated with the size of the expenses when the income next role. As I’ve said before, if you plan to use a re-
begins to slow and eventually begins only to drip. sume expert or a career coach, do it early and include
And do not underestimate the emotional tie you have it in your plans. Also, make sure to set a budget for
to your ability to spend at will. Believe me, your pride yourself re: job search expenses. Too many meetings at
takes a hit when someone says that you shouldn’t buy Starbucks and your job search expenses can begin add-

ing up. Networking coffees are a great way to build a Those are important decisions that need to be well
relationships and gain new contacts, but they can also thought-out with a professional.
get expensive.
In the end, knowing your own financial reality and
If your search extends beyond your severance, you’ll planning for your short term future is a critical part of
need to identify your next source of funds to cover ex- your strategy during job search. This knowledge will
penses. A cash savings account is commonly viewed as help you understand your real situation.
the next best source due to its liquid nature and (hope-
And even if you don’t like the resulting budget (and its
fully) penalty free access. For decisions regarding tap-
affect on your spending ability), you will have confi-
ping other savings, home equity or 401k funds, please
dence that you are acting on real data. Not false hopes.
contact your accountant or financial adviser.
Download ExpenSmart
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ExpenSmart™ HOW TO USE
JOB TRANSITION BUDGETING
TAB 2 - Learning Month - Actuals TAB 3 - Planning Months - Budget
This worksheet is here to help you be honest with yourself. One of the biggest
mistakes that we make in budgeting is assuming a bad number. We think we
Now that you have a sense of your real spending habits (or at least a real month),
spend X on food each month when it is actually Y. Here's what you do. Track your
PD
you can begin projecting forward based on known expenses and estimated variable
actual expenses everyday for a month. Keep the spreadsheet up on your computer
expenses (i.e. food, utilities, entertainment).
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and log in every single expense, cash or credit, into the spreadsheet. Ask for a
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receipt. For everything. Daily. DF
In Tab 3, you plan out three to six months keeping in mind the time of year and
Is it painful? Yes. Does it feel like overkill? Of course. It will also take a lot of
Ed
using knowledge of your seasonal spending habits to adjust monthly projections as
your time to do it right.
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rw necessary.
Concerning income, if your transition takes you from two incomes to one or from
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But if you think you have a handle on your actual expenses when you have a big Fr one to none, the spreadsheet allows you to plan for either scenario and plan for the
paycheck coming in like a fire hose . . . and you are wrong. You will be especially ee availability and eventual dissipation of a regular severance check. If your
frustrated with the size of the expenses when the income begins to slow and
severance check is a lump sum, look to the bottom of the spreadsheet to identify it
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eventually begins only to drip.
along with any other lump sum amounts you may need to tap.
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er
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For job search part of your strategy should be your use of paid resources
And do not underestimate the emotional tie you have to your ability to spend at
to help you find your next role. As I've said before, if you plan to use a resume
d Texpenses,
will. Believe me, your pride takes a hit when someone says that you shouldn't buy
expert or a career
oocoach, do it early and include it in your plans. Also, make sure
something that a few months ago would have been a no-brainer. Sometimes you
to set a budget for lyourself
s re: job search expenses. Too many meetings at
will be the one giving that direction to a spouse. Other times, your spouse (the
Starbucks and your job search expenses can begin adding up. Networking coffees
financial driver in the house) will bring you to your knees with "we can't afford that
are a great way to build a relationships and gain new contacts, but they can also
(insert something important here)".
get expensive.
If you can fill this out in advance of your transition beginning, that is ideal. If you
If your search extends beyond your severance, you'll need to identify your next
get a heads up on a lay-off. If not, do the best you can to track your actuals. And
source of funds to cover expenses. A cash savings account is commonly viewed as
remember that this is one month. Pay attention to any unique aspects that you
the next best source due to its liquid nature and (hopefully) penalty free access.
may need to adjust for as you begin projecting future expenses. Was your learning
For decisions regarding tapping other savings, home equity or 401k funds, please
month "back to school month" or a big birthday month for family? Adjust
contact your accountant or financial adviser.
accordingly.
Those are important decisions that need to be well thought-out with a

professional.

ExpenSmart™
JOB TRANSITION BUDGETING LEARNING MONTH - ACTUALS
Day
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Total
EXPENSE DESCRIPTION
JOB SEARCH EXPENSES

Resume Expert $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Career Coach $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Job Sites $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Networking Events $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
TRANSPORTATION
Auto Gas $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Auto Maintenance $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Public (Bus, Taxi, Train) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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DEBT PAYMENTS
1st Mortgage or Rent $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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2nd Mortgage $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Auto $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Credit Card $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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HOME
Land Line $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Internet $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Electricity $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Gas $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Water $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Repairs $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Cleaning $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Association Dues $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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PERSONAL W
Clothing $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Child Care $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Tuition $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Medical and Dental $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Beauty Shop and Barber $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Charity $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 d$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Cell Phones $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
To
FOOD
Groceries $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Eating Out $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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INSURANCE PAYMENTS
Home $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Life $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Auto $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Health $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
ENTERTAINMENT
Cable TV $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Movie Theater $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Newspaper $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Sports Events/Concerts $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
OTHER
Gifts $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Vacations $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Kids Classes $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
TOTAL EXPENSES $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

ExpenSmart™
JOB TRANSITION BUDGETING PLANNING MONTHS - BUDGET
January February March April May June July August September October November December
INCOME DESCRIPTION
Net Pay 1 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Net Pay 2 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Severance Pay (monthly) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Interest and Dividends $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Miscellaneous $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
TOTAL INCOME $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
EXPENSE DESCRIPTION
JOB SEARCH EXPENSES

Resume Expert $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Career Coach $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Job Sites $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
PD
Networking Events $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
TRANSPORTATION
Fi
Auto Gas $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Auto Maintenance $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
ll P
Public (Bus, Taxi, Train) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
DEBT PAYMENTS
DF
1st Mortgage or Rent $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
2nd Mortgage $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Ed
Auto $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Credit Card $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
ito
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
HOME
Land Line $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
rw
Internet $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Electricity $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
ith
Gas $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Water $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Repairs $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Fr
Cleaning $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Association Dues $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
ee$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 W $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
PERSONAL
Clothing $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Child Care $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
rit
Tuition $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Medical and Dental $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
er $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Beauty Shop and Barber $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Charity $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
an
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
d $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Cell Phones $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
FOOD
To
Groceries $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Eating Out $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
INSURANCE PAYMENTS
ols
Home $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Life $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Auto $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Health $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
COBRA $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $1 $1 $1 $1 $1
ENTERTAINMENT
Cable TV $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Movie Theater $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Newspaper $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Sports Events/Concerts $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
OTHER
Gifts $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Vacations $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Kids Classes $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
TOTAL EXPENSES $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $1 $1 $1 $1 $1
CASH (SHORT) EXTRA $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 ($1) ($1) ($1) ($1) ($1)
Severance Pay (Lump Sum) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

Savings $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other Sources $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

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THE TOOLS OF INTELLIGENT JOB SEARCH

Cover design and layout: Merlina Design

Founder, Writer, Speaker, Encourager at Tim’s Strategy

Tim Tyrell-Smith is a 21 year veteran consumer packaged goods marketing execu-

Mission Viejo, California.

ii Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

A New Business Card for Networking. Introducing FlashCard..........................18

How to Prepare For A Successful Interview.Take A Sip................................22

When Your Elevator Pitch Has A Pitch Problem ..........................................27

iii Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Having a strategy and being invigorated by the result- to http://timsstrategy.com.

ing confidence worked wonders for me. Now, as I meet

Good luck out there!

Strategy is my way to give back to the community that

helped me in 2007. And you know what? It feels really

good to help others. send me a note with your feedback!

I hope you enjoy this e-workbook. It represents the

might be asking: what’s the value of this e-workbook

when all of the information is already out on the blog?

iv Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Tools for Intelligent Job Search

Join the Linkedin® Group......................................... http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=963877

Follow on Twitter .................................................................. http://twitter.com/TimsStrategy

Other Blogs I Like…

Career Alley™..................................................................................... http://careeralley.com

Career Solvers................................................................... http://www.careersolvers.com/blog

Executive Resume Branding............................................... http://executiveresumebranding.com/

Interview Angel.................................................................... http://www.interviewangel.com/

Karen Burns, Working Girl................................................ http://www.karenburnsworkinggirl.com

Kevin Liebl............................................................................ http://kevinliebl.wordpress.com

Savvy JobSeeker........................................................................... http://savvyjobseeker.com

Some Assembly Required........................................................... http://thomsinger.blogspot.com

The Social Executive........................................................................ http://thesocialexec.com

Windmill Networking™........................................................ http://windmillnetworking.com/blog

 Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

The #1 Networking Tool During Hard Times

one they met while out of work.

Here’s my problem. I need a simple system to connect

when you die, on your deathbed, you will receive total

 Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

way to do so. instead of just repeating your elevator speech, everyone

added a clear and concise closing statement. One that

Helping others, in my opinion, is the single best way

to network because you build lasting relationships

(people that want to help you in return).

 Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

© Tim's Strategy http://www.timsstrategy.com

© Tim's Strategy http://www.timsstrategy.com

Note: New Auto Filter helps organize your Watchlyst by field! PD

© Tim's Strategy http://www.timsstrategy.com

How Do You Evaluate A Job Offer?

know enough to be plenty ready to evaluate it?

ready when the offer hits your in box. Here’s some

 Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

 Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Commute Time: < 30 minutes 1

Other: Good Benefits 6

Define job offer Score (1 low, 5 high)

© 2008-2010 Tim's Strategy http://www.timsstrategy.com

© 2008-2010 Tim's Strategy http://www.timsstrategy.com

Annual Value $128,846 $148,346

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Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

Tim’s Strategy 10 tools • THE TOOLS OF SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH