Networking When You’re Unemployed This Summer
The summer holidays are here – hooray for bugs in the potato salad and BBQ stains on the shorts! Summer family reunions and parties are fun… unless you’re out of a job. Not to mention you saw them at Christmas and didn’t have a job then either. For those who are currently unemployed, here are some tips for networking during the summer holidays while enjoying the time with family:
- Be real. Don’t be fake about your situation. This doesn’t mean complain to everyone that you corner near the chip bowl. Let people know how you’re feeling. This is family. They love and support you and really want to know how you’re feeling, but also want to know what you’re doing to solve the problem. Have stories (ideally funny ones) ready to share about the job search.
- Think about what they want to hear from you. Typically people like to hear about action and moving forward when there is a problem. What stories can you share with them that explore an interesting tactic you’re doing in the job search?
- Specific ideas. Give them focus on how they can help you. This does not mean a PowerPoint slide presentation on the garage door right before the fireworks. Rather, as you’re chatting with people and they ask “How is the job search going?” Answer with, “It’s going well. In fact, I am researching companies in healthcare (insert appropriate). What do you know about the healthcare industry?”
- While family is supportive and wish you well, don’t attach yourself to the job search conversation for the entire BBQ. Remember, they have lives too… Take the opportunity to ask them how their lives are going. Perhaps hearing about someone else’s gout or sun burn will take the edge off your job search pains.
However you approach family summer parties, remember that it’s important to attend. Family love and support you. Go have a hot dog and cherry pie. Be helpful and enjoy the moment. The job search will continue tomorrow.
About Jennifer Armitstead
Jennifer has coached hundreds of job seekers who are either laid off or making a career transition. With many successful years of placing candidates by working closely with hiring managers to interview and select top talent, Jennifer leverages this unique knowledge to position her coaching clients as they differentiate themselves from other job seekers. Jennifer is sought after for her unique ability to help individuals develop their personal brand and create a career management strategy.
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