DEVELOPMENT

Strengthening your opportunity search

We find ourselves in extraordinary times with the pandemic. Effective lockdown and isolation since 23rd March have made us adapt to new ways of running our lives. As always there are winners and losers. In business we see Public Sector, Utilities and Banking and Financial Services doing well, but those that are struggling are plain to see - Automotive, Retail, the Arts, Travel and Hospitality. During this time, I have been helping friends and colleagues who are looking for new opportunities with advice on networking, CV writing and self-promotion. If you currently find yourself in this position, I would like to share some tips with you.

Firstly, as obvious as it may seem, build and connect to your professional network and influential others. It is much more effective than just cold calling. They are a good source of information about the health of your industry, the companies that are doing well and the skills currently in demand. Remember networking is about creating long term relationships for mutual benefits rather than charming people or looking for the most important person in an organisation. Always offer to help your contacts in return and take time to thank them. The giving and taking of information can lead to stronger more open relationships.

LinkedIn is a great tool for networking but just as importantly it’s a platform