My Journey Forward

One of my specialty areas is career and job-search coaching; I have successfully worked with hundreds of people looking for a new  Manager to Executive-level position. They are usually looking for a career shift and many are interested in a move abroad. My coaching helps to consider different career paths and make a strong, positive impression during every step of the job-search process: developing an effective self-pitch, building a network, applications, interviews and negotiations.

Most of my clients have been successful because they followed my 7-Step Model to Navigating the Job-Search:

1) Identified their USPs (Unique Selling Points): meaning, what do they have to offer that is UNIQUE and NEEDED in today’s market? If this is difficult, start by doing a SWOT analysis on your candidate profile, then ask someone who knows you to have a look and provide feedback.

2) If there is no overlap, or they do not enjoy doing the type of work that demands their unique skillset, they identified a new field of interest they are passionate about and educated themselves in this field. Most obtained a new degree or certification.

3) Developed an effective resume/CV and understanding of the application process

4) Leveraged their network, expressing genuine interest in others and doing things for others along the way (people help people who help them)

5) Attended networking events to meet new people and practice delivering their BRIEF and INTERESTING self-pitch until they could deliver it CONFIDENTLY, be AUTHENTIC and sound PASSIONATE about it

6) Follow-up with people soon afterwards: LinkIn with your connections and post professional career-related updates to stay in their radar. Make your invitations and thank you emails personal- refer to your meeting or work together. This comes across as more sincere and you will have better results than if you use a standard message.

7) Learned and practiced interview techniques, wrote cover letters customized for each job, and took set-backs during the job application process as learning opportunities to improve their performance the next time

Sound straightforward? It is not. Most people find it very difficult to navigate today’s job market and find themselves experiencing fear, depression  and even hostility during their job search. Have a look at this slide which maps out the emotional life cycle many experience during their job search: The Process of Transition.

If you are stuck I can help you with each and every step.

For example, many people are not comfortable approaching new people. I attend networking sessions with clients to coach them in this area, providing supportive feedback and facilitating introductions.

Interviewing, application writing and offer negotiations are areas of my expertise; I am very experienced with current interview techniques and know what recruiters are looking for. I role-play interviews with clients and coach them to present themselves confidently and effectively.

Good luck!

If you would like to discuss how we could work together, please call me at +31 65 430 3369 or email  jaustin@myjourneyforward.eu  to schedule an appointment. There is no charge for this first telephone discussion.