(from guest Blogger, Jenn Tran)
As one of the Interactive Account Managers in the LA office, I manage Talent and client relationships. This means I am constantly talking to Talent about their job search and clients about their current and future needs. Having a gauge of the topography of the current job market goes without saying... And let's face it, the job market has changed and fluctuated significantly over the past year. With the current scenario as it is (no matter where you are in your job search) it is important, now more than ever, to "think outside the box" (to be as cliché as possible about it).
So here are a few general suggestions that you may find useful. Here at Aquent, we love our Talent and want nothing but the best possible opportunities for them. As great as we are at marketing our Talent, we are but one of several resources you should be using to find a job opportunity. Aside from being signed up with a staffing agency and applying to positions on the job boards, NETWORKING is huge (especially now) in finding opportunities. You know the old saying, "it's not what you know but who you know" - we are in LA after all!
"But, Jenn, I hate the idea of networking," you say (yes, someone actually said this to me recently). Well, baby steps will lead the way. Here are some steps:
1) Know what you do (target your network)
Depending on what your specialization is, there are several networking events that are being hosted by various organizations with a ton of highly reputable companies looking to meet talented people. Some of the up and coming events can be seen on our blog in the right hand column.
2) Seek our your networks
For finding relevant events or people in your field, meetup.com is a good place to start. Say you're a UX Designer... There's UI/UX Meetup group that is just for you!
Check out AIGAlosangeles.org for other local events sponsored or co-sponsored by the AIGA.
Check out your local college alumni group.
LinkedIn.com also has online groups catered to job specific topics.
For all the technical Web devs in the house: http://www.socaltech.com/calendar/calendar.php
And there are many many more!
3) Perfect Practice Makes Perfect
Say you are not the most social person in the world. Okay, but you have to know this: you will never network yourself into your next career unless you try! Surrounding yourself with your peers at one of these networking events is the perfect way to get yourself geared for other events (or the same ones) where you can meet potential employers. What easier thing to talk about as a topic of conversation than your own professional expertise. When you find yourself starting off small (baby steps) by networking with peers (see step 2) you will not only get into the swing of what's going on in your profession - you can learn helpful tips from people who do what you do. If you start off with the internet (get LinkedIn, Facebook, Meetup.com, Twitter.com) and be a squeaky wheel - you are off to a good start!
4) Just Do It (I think that slogan is branded by someone else). Get out there and make your own opportunities! Aquent has some awesome networking events coming up so make sure you check the blog or our Facebook page to keep up to date.
I just heard this morning that one of our Talent got an interview through meeting someone at a party. Opportunities are everywhere - you just need to get out and find them!
Hope this helps! If you have any questions feel free to call and ask or email me at jtran@aquent.com.
I found this blog very useful and it inspired me. I do have one question related to the topic of networking: As a designer I should be aware of all of the swag that is required to market one's self (after all, it is my business to produce swag), but I haven't been in the business of networking for quite some time and was wondering if you had any insight into the materials we should have on hand at these networking events (business cards, promo items, etc.). Are there any trends to be aware of? I know back in the day a simple business card that offered your contact info and URL would suffice. Will a business card alone still make you competitive in today's job market?
Hi Kerry!
As promised, here's the reply (and it's on the blog, too). Have a good weekend!
From our Are You There Aquent? part of the blog (you're welcome to ask your own questions!)
Hi guys,
I found this blog very useful and it inspired me. I do have one question related to the topic of networking: As a Designer I should be aware of all of the swag that is required to market one's self (after all, it is my business to produce swag), but I haven't been in the business of networking for quite some time and was wondering if you had any insight into the materials we should have on hand at these networking events (business cards, promo items, etc.).
Are there any trends to be aware of? I know back in the day a simple business card that offered your contact info and URL would suffice.
Will a business card alone still make you competitive in today's job market?
Kerry
(Reply from Monica, former Designer and present Print Design Account Manager at Aquent)
Hi Kerry,
Heck yes, a business card with your URL and contact info is just fine! You could be creative and make an extending, accordion-folding business card that has samples of your work on it... but that's a little crazy. (Unless you are a student fresh outta school. Then that might be kinda cool and inventive. You have permission to steal the idea.)
Here's the thing, if you make a good impression and have rapport with someone at a networking event, your card will be great. It's just a vehicle to convey your information so that they can check out your work when they get home!
However, if you don't really know a person and you are just randomly putting your business card in peoples' pockets and purses (which I do not recommend), then maybe bust out the accordion-folded thing with glitter and jewels. I'm kidding. But really, it's a networking event, which means you are there to meet and greet. Your personality should shine and showing off your swag might detract from the fabulous you.
Thanks for writing!
Monica