Red Jade: I can’t say that there is any one thing that has really helped. Actually, as far as careers go, mine is a case of things I did not do that I should have done.
Rafiki: I used to feel the same way until a few years ago. I also used to think it was too late for me to do the things I should have done. I realized that though I cannot take back time, I can do something to accelerate my progress towards where I want to be.
Red Jade: It sounds like a cliché but truly it's never too late to make changes. If I knew then what I know now, I would have taken charge of my career instead of just settling in the job that I found myself in - Marketing. Now I realize that I don't even like it that much and I sure don't want to do it for the rest of my working life.
Rafiki: It is funny how we always think it is too late. A friend gave me great advice about changing careers. I always thought I would have to study something different and start anew until I realized I had transferable skills and that a formal degree is not the only entry to most careers.
Red Jade: Right. Get a resume expert to polish your resume to highlight those transferable skills. But even when you have a degree, it’s not enough. Having the knowledge or the skills is just the beginning. Most of us invest very little time in developing a strong resume, practicing interview skills, researching industries, networking etc. From experience, I now know that it is very important to invest time and money in these areas so as to increase the chances of getting the job I really want. I look at it as an investment that will pay for itself once I get hired or promoted.
Rafiki: You made an important point. Your resume is the greatest marketing collateral for an individual. The interview is also very important. To get anyone to notice the resume and give you an interview requires a lot of networking. I used to dislike networking because it felt like I was building relationships only for what I could get. At some point I realized that I have to network. I learnt to approach it by offering my assistance in accomplishing the other person's goal. When you engage people in conversation, you will find that you know something that may be helpful to them and vice versa.
Red Jade: True. The challenge is getting to that point in the conversation. I can't stand the small talk that is part of networking; it is actually very painful for me. Every time, I have to attend a networking event (work event that I can't get skip) I have to psyche myself up for days and be emotionally and mentally ready. I find I really struggle to find something to say . . . and please, oh please, let's not talk about the weather! I really need to take a class/seminar in this area if only for my sanity.
Conversation about the weather is the last refuge of the unimaginative.
-Oscar Wilde
Rafiki: A seminar or class really helps. I once attended a seminar where the speaker suggested asking any of these questions to start a conversation. What did you want to be when you grew up? What did you become? Why did you change? Do you have any pets or children? They have actually helped me get through the awkward moments but it can be challenging.
Red Jade: I am really introverted so asking a total stranger such personal questions does not come easy. I am only able to do it because I know that it's good manners to try and initiate conversations with others. But it does not feel good while doing it. Some people certainly make it look really easy. Anyway, if your goal is to climb the corporate ladder you have to learn to network both on the job and outside the job. That's how you get others to know you and you also get to hear of openings before they are posted. Don't turn down those company invitations to hobnob with others.
Rafiki: Not turning the invitation down is easier said than done but it is important. It helps to have a friend at work that you can partner with especially if you are introverted.
Red Jade: You go to a lot of networking activities, what's your one sure line that you rely on?
Rafiki: I like hearing about where people are from so I usually ask if they are native Houstonians. Most people are not so we talk about how they ended up here. If they are a native then I ask what part of Houston they grew up in. What lines do you rely on?
Red Jade: That's a good one and easy to segue to other questions. My shtick is to make sure I know at least 3 top stories in the news that day or week.
Rafiki: That is a really good one; people like to talk about current affairs.
Red Jade: Yeah, and it helps me get away from the small talk. But obviously I keep away from the taboo topics - religion and politics.
Rafiki: Though they can make for the best discussions but most people are too sensitive about it.
Red Jade: You may start a war and everyone will question your judgment. Not a good career move! Now, if only I could roll like the Governator . . .
I just use my muscles as a conversation piece, like someone walking a cheetah down 42nd Street.
-Arnold Schwarzenegger
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