Last Saturday, I hosted and presented to a group of 15 job seekers in Littleton, CO. Each time I host an event, I meet with folks who are broken, sad, angry, confused, stuck, negative, hopeless. Most are active, eager, insatiably curious, energized, out spoken, creative, thoughtful, and helpful. Every once in a while, an audience member jumps into my life then shares his/her story, wisdom, faith, and ideas which impact my life, business and perspective. Thank You Diana!
A note from Diana (attendee of job seeker networking event hosted 10/22/11 at Greenwood Community Church):
"Sarah,
Thank you so much for the time you took to speak to all of us and the
great handouts and objective ideas. Your part of the information
helped me see how I can "tweak" a few things.
My mirror is covered with positives. Little notes all over.
Sometimes it feels like dire straits with my consulting work and also
at times with my freelance writing sideline. Writing down is truly a
way to start to bring about what we desire. At least a few things
have actually transpired for me that way. This does not mean we are
not going to encounter some dark tunnels and at the other side be met
with a cliff.
We just have to know how to shut out the annoyances and "clutter" that
sounds around us and keep the main focus and belief on the positives
we can accomplish in steps toward the goal every day. I meditate in
the morning for at least a few minutes and in the evening and
visualize the positive outcome. Find to surround myself with positive
people with like ideas also generates good energy and like does indeed
attract like. No matter how challenging -- we cannot fall prey to the
quicksand.
I've had several items in the pipeline lately. Some are stuck and
some look like they are going through and then hit budget glitches.
Went to the seminar for ideas on how to move things along and get some
response rather than the people hiding out in e-mail and voice mail.
Last evening, one company sent me some supplemental information to
fill out. Did not know it as I'd shut my e-mail down the night
before. Decided to go to the seminar -- what was in my box when I
returned home? They'd been stalling on budget. So sent the
supplement in today.
You get what you think about most of the time -- and keeping the
energy level up is so important -- even when things look dark -- the
rainbow shows brighter colors after the storms when the sun emerges!
Really like your philosophy. Think we have to tap in to a higher
level of thinking. I've studied some on meditation and our
perceptions are not reality -- we get into a thinking process of what
if but what if everything goes positive just as we hoped and we are
actually learning life lessons while we delay -- and instant
gratification is something I've also thought about -- everyone else
expects us to have things happen instantly and then we start to expect
things to be instant too -- but sometimes we go through what seems
difficulties to grow to reach our next level.
Found on sale a bottle of mustard seeds last year at Sunflower Market
for 50 cents and got them. When I feel like I cannot cope with
anything else that stalls progress or like everything is about to
careen off a cliff, I take out a mustard seed and ask if I have that
much faith. And yes, I have to answer -- it is small and so that much
I can muster. And the mustard seed grows into a huge plant!
So your analogies and handouts today were great. I've been doing most
of what you advised but found some real value in your objective
perspectives and the action orientation..
Thank you so much for giving of your time to help us get unstuck and
deliver some brilliant ideas to lead us to solutions whether we seek
jobs or clients -- we are all interacting and provide some sort of
service to people.
Grateful to you!
Diana"
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Top Companies. Top Talent.
The challenges posed to job seekers have been frequently trotted out the past 5 years they hardly bear repeating. But what is worth noting as the economy continues to wobble, there are businesses and organizations in Colorado that are succeeding which is great news for the folks who are unemployed or under employed.
Viable lead and company information is every where. You just need to know where to look, how to look then be adventurous enough to do something with it. 1. Read local news every day and read everything that comes through your hands. 2. When you come across information regarding a company that you can impact, set a goal to connect with a decision maker in that corporation and have a face to face. 3. In order to get the attention of a top company, present yourself as a top problem solver, not just another prospector.
Example: tucked away on the September issue of Coloradobiz Magazine on pages 23 - 36 is the list of Top Company finalists. "So what?" you ask. The Top Company program recognizes outstanding firms headquartered in Colorado or with a significant presence here, based on 3 factors: financial performance, community involvement, and outstanding achievement. Here's what you do...
1. Blueprint company (name, location, size, etc - simple company snap shot)
2. Research - uncover culture, identify notable practices, earnings, growth, community involvement
3. Identify decision maker aka "your future boss" (name, title, email, direct phone, cell phone)
4. Call, email, snail mail, fax, visit the decision maker, or befriend the gatekeeper to schedule a conversation with him/her and uncover the needs and goals of the company
5. Demonstrate your value
"You're crazy. No way." you say. Maybe and yes way. Here's what you do...
Connect with the decision maker and say something like "Hey Bill, my name is Sarah Wells. How are you? (pause) GREAT. I came across your name while reading about your Top Company nomination in Coloradobiz. Congrats! The research I've done on your company shows me that you're growing, earning, developing, and a leader in innovative practices (give an example). My goal is to join MBP Enterprises. Tell me how I do that."
Did you say you were unemployed? No. Will he be surprised? Yes. Will he be impressed? Probably. Will he throw you off? Yes. Will he try to pawn you off to HR? Yes. As long as you keep him on the phone, ask good questions, get information, land an appointment or get a referral then you're in business. After you learn about the needs and goals of the company, your first job is to prove your value. Respond and demonstrate how you will impact the team by making or saving money or improving efficiencies.
Coloradobiz lists 33 firms in 11 industries. Choose your top three and get started. What do you have to lose?!?
When you have questions on how to anticipate objections, overcome objections, ask qualifying questions, generate viable leads, or connect with high level decision makers then contact Sarah Burton Wells at LeadSource, LLC. Office: 720.961.3913
Lets get back to work!
Viable lead and company information is every where. You just need to know where to look, how to look then be adventurous enough to do something with it. 1. Read local news every day and read everything that comes through your hands. 2. When you come across information regarding a company that you can impact, set a goal to connect with a decision maker in that corporation and have a face to face. 3. In order to get the attention of a top company, present yourself as a top problem solver, not just another prospector.
Example: tucked away on the September issue of Coloradobiz Magazine on pages 23 - 36 is the list of Top Company finalists. "So what?" you ask. The Top Company program recognizes outstanding firms headquartered in Colorado or with a significant presence here, based on 3 factors: financial performance, community involvement, and outstanding achievement. Here's what you do...
1. Blueprint company (name, location, size, etc - simple company snap shot)
2. Research - uncover culture, identify notable practices, earnings, growth, community involvement
3. Identify decision maker aka "your future boss" (name, title, email, direct phone, cell phone)
4. Call, email, snail mail, fax, visit the decision maker, or befriend the gatekeeper to schedule a conversation with him/her and uncover the needs and goals of the company
5. Demonstrate your value
"You're crazy. No way." you say. Maybe and yes way. Here's what you do...
Connect with the decision maker and say something like "Hey Bill, my name is Sarah Wells. How are you? (pause) GREAT. I came across your name while reading about your Top Company nomination in Coloradobiz. Congrats! The research I've done on your company shows me that you're growing, earning, developing, and a leader in innovative practices (give an example). My goal is to join MBP Enterprises. Tell me how I do that."
Did you say you were unemployed? No. Will he be surprised? Yes. Will he be impressed? Probably. Will he throw you off? Yes. Will he try to pawn you off to HR? Yes. As long as you keep him on the phone, ask good questions, get information, land an appointment or get a referral then you're in business. After you learn about the needs and goals of the company, your first job is to prove your value. Respond and demonstrate how you will impact the team by making or saving money or improving efficiencies.
Coloradobiz lists 33 firms in 11 industries. Choose your top three and get started. What do you have to lose?!?
When you have questions on how to anticipate objections, overcome objections, ask qualifying questions, generate viable leads, or connect with high level decision makers then contact Sarah Burton Wells at LeadSource, LLC. Office: 720.961.3913
Lets get back to work!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
White Water
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| Nick N., rafting guide (far right) |
BOTTOM LINE? When you're out navigating the raging rapids and white water of your job search, don't do it alone, partner with a guide, equip yourself with tangibles and intangibles to keep you moving and strong. Take the ride seriously and be grateful for your life and vision...take in all the scenery, educate yourself, engage others, pay attention, stay on point, share your experiences, dig deep and paddle hard through each bump, and top off each with a sincere "woohoo!". When hiring managers observe and experience your courage, positive attitude, professional behavior, value and zest for whatever it is you can and will accomplish, they too will invest in your future.
Keep us posted on how we can help you, and lets get back to work!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Ready to POUNCE?
Gang - below is an email I received from Tory Johnson - great message!
|
Monday, May 9, 2011
"Knock it out of the park!"
"Knock it out of the park" - cliche/phrase meaning "outstanding accomplishment, home run, better than expected, do very well, to kick a**"
6pm, Monday night - I hear the ding of the door bell. After a long work day, during dinner? Argh. I was pleasantly surprised to see one of my coaching clients (R.E.) at the door with edible arrangement in hand.
R.E. just landed a new position with a middle school in Littleton Public Schools, and he was over the moon! His arrival and gift was to celebrate his acceptance and to thank me for our time spent preparing his brand, value propositions, oral and written presentations, and interview skills. Based on feedback from his hiring managers, he aced his interview, stood out from the rest of the pack, and "knocked it out of the park". How?
Attitude, Behaviors, Adventure, Accountability, ACTION, Gratitude
How long have you been actively looking for a full time position?
How many resumes have you sent out?
How many 1st interviews have you completed?
How many offers have you received or have on the table?
If the answer to the last question is ZERO, then something needs to change!
If you're not reaching your goals, hitting home runs, doing/feeling better than expected, doing very well, or kicking a** then lets change your tactics!
If you want to change your employment status within the next 90 days then Smashcut! is all you need. Session IV begins in June 2011. Visit the LeadSource, LLC website, connect with Sarah on LinkedIn or click here to learn more about Sarah's one on one coaching services and unique Smashcut! program.
Lets get back to work!
6pm, Monday night - I hear the ding of the door bell. After a long work day, during dinner? Argh. I was pleasantly surprised to see one of my coaching clients (R.E.) at the door with edible arrangement in hand.
R.E. just landed a new position with a middle school in Littleton Public Schools, and he was over the moon! His arrival and gift was to celebrate his acceptance and to thank me for our time spent preparing his brand, value propositions, oral and written presentations, and interview skills. Based on feedback from his hiring managers, he aced his interview, stood out from the rest of the pack, and "knocked it out of the park". How?
Attitude, Behaviors, Adventure, Accountability, ACTION, Gratitude
- Attitude - insatiably curious, sincerely invested, flexible, humorous, honest, humble, driven, positive
- Behaviors - show and tell to demonstrate your value.
- Adventure - student among students; always willing to learn, try something new, take risks
- Accountability - the only person responsible for maintaining your employment is you; do what it takes to stay on the top of the short list!
- Action - identify gaps in your job search, ask for help, create a solid sphere of influence, invest in professional coaching, ask, listen, implement, and ACT.
- Gratitude - thank every single person who helps through your hiring process (The edible arrangement was a great addition to our family dinner. The card read "Sarah - Thanks to you, I GOT THE JOB!" I'll forever be an advocate and ambassador for R.E. When he needs help moving on and moving up, he has my support, network, and professional reference!)
How long have you been actively looking for a full time position?
How many resumes have you sent out?
How many 1st interviews have you completed?
How many offers have you received or have on the table?
If the answer to the last question is ZERO, then something needs to change!
If you're not reaching your goals, hitting home runs, doing/feeling better than expected, doing very well, or kicking a** then lets change your tactics!
If you want to change your employment status within the next 90 days then Smashcut! is all you need. Session IV begins in June 2011. Visit the LeadSource, LLC website, connect with Sarah on LinkedIn or click here to learn more about Sarah's one on one coaching services and unique Smashcut! program.
Lets get back to work!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Sarah's Top 10 Spring Clean for 2011
Just as we maintain our homes, cars, and other worldly possessions; we must must must maintain our professional lives. Whether you're unemployed or not yet unemployed, taking inventory of, cleaning out, and organizing your job search is a non-negotiable.
Sarah's Top 10 Spring Clean for 2011:
1. Industries - to start, focus on 3 viable industries that suit your background, skill set, education, acumen, and goals.
2. Strengths - think about and list 3 things that you do exceptionally well. When you do these things, they make you feel more powerful!
3. Weaknesses - think about list 3 things that you don't do well and need to improve on. To enhance your list, write down what you're currently doing or plan to do to overcome the learning curve(s)
4. Transferable skills - think about and list the 5 industry neutral skills that will help you determine "fit" when reading a job description or applying for a job.
5. "Uniquity" - list 1-3 unique skills, attributes, and/or accomplishments that absolutely set you apart from the rest of the pack.
6. Resources - what do you have or need in your tool box to get you important information to expertly navigate the market place? All I need is Google, LinkedIn, and The Denver Business Journal. What's in your wallet?
7. Scripts - over 95% of job seekers apply online and never reach out to decision makers. And over 76% percent of job seekers don't follow up. Would you rather be 1 of 100 applicants or 1 of 4? YES, calling high level decision makers aka your future bosses is a must. Increase your odds of getting attention and/or first interview by over 75% and get scripting!
8. Objections and responses - in order to turn your 30 second elevator pitch into a 30 minute conversation, it's time to learn how to overcome objections. Think about and list all the objections you face or will face then draft appropriate responses (HINT: when stuck, ask a question)
9. Power partner - identify and connect with someone in your network that is accessible and available to listen to you, work with you, talk about you, advocate for you, and fight for you!
10. 4 A's - Accountability, Adventure, Action, Attitude! Be accountable for what you do and to whom you partner with. Have a sense of adventure and try new things every day that are (way) outside of your comfort zone (elevator pitch, calling decision makers, asking for referrals). Follow through, but make sure every single action in your plan has a purpose. Finally, attitude...where will you go and what will you get with a negative attitude? Need help, purchase Jeffrey Gitomer's "Little Gold Book of Yes! Attitude" - easy read and phenomenal resource! To purchase, visit: http://www.amazon.com/Little-Gold-Book-YES-Attitude/dp/0131986473
Missing any of the above or don't know where to get help? When you need motivation, education, and expert tools to get you started, recharged, or to the next step enroll in the next Smashcut Job Seeker Class Series! Session IV is scheduled to begin May 16, 2011 @ the Koelbel Library in Centennial. To learn more about Smashcut, visit Sarah's LinkedIn page: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbwells
To register and reserve your seat for Smashcut Session IV, email Sarah today!
Hoppy Spring! Now lets get back to work!
Sarah's Top 10 Spring Clean for 2011:
1. Industries - to start, focus on 3 viable industries that suit your background, skill set, education, acumen, and goals.
2. Strengths - think about and list 3 things that you do exceptionally well. When you do these things, they make you feel more powerful!
3. Weaknesses - think about list 3 things that you don't do well and need to improve on. To enhance your list, write down what you're currently doing or plan to do to overcome the learning curve(s)
4. Transferable skills - think about and list the 5 industry neutral skills that will help you determine "fit" when reading a job description or applying for a job.
5. "Uniquity" - list 1-3 unique skills, attributes, and/or accomplishments that absolutely set you apart from the rest of the pack.
6. Resources - what do you have or need in your tool box to get you important information to expertly navigate the market place? All I need is Google, LinkedIn, and The Denver Business Journal. What's in your wallet?
7. Scripts - over 95% of job seekers apply online and never reach out to decision makers. And over 76% percent of job seekers don't follow up. Would you rather be 1 of 100 applicants or 1 of 4? YES, calling high level decision makers aka your future bosses is a must. Increase your odds of getting attention and/or first interview by over 75% and get scripting!
8. Objections and responses - in order to turn your 30 second elevator pitch into a 30 minute conversation, it's time to learn how to overcome objections. Think about and list all the objections you face or will face then draft appropriate responses (HINT: when stuck, ask a question)
9. Power partner - identify and connect with someone in your network that is accessible and available to listen to you, work with you, talk about you, advocate for you, and fight for you!
10. 4 A's - Accountability, Adventure, Action, Attitude! Be accountable for what you do and to whom you partner with. Have a sense of adventure and try new things every day that are (way) outside of your comfort zone (elevator pitch, calling decision makers, asking for referrals). Follow through, but make sure every single action in your plan has a purpose. Finally, attitude...where will you go and what will you get with a negative attitude? Need help, purchase Jeffrey Gitomer's "Little Gold Book of Yes! Attitude" - easy read and phenomenal resource! To purchase, visit: http://www.amazon.com/Little-Gold-Book-YES-Attitude/dp/0131986473
Missing any of the above or don't know where to get help? When you need motivation, education, and expert tools to get you started, recharged, or to the next step enroll in the next Smashcut Job Seeker Class Series! Session IV is scheduled to begin May 16, 2011 @ the Koelbel Library in Centennial. To learn more about Smashcut, visit Sarah's LinkedIn page: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbwells
To register and reserve your seat for Smashcut Session IV, email Sarah today!
Hoppy Spring! Now lets get back to work!
Friday, April 22, 2011
High Profile, High Accessibility
The other day I had a meeting and next to us sat Ed McCaffrey (http://edmccaffrey.com/). So I texted most of the males in my life to brag that I was sitting next to one of the most popular wide receivers that played in the NFL. My brother wanted his autograph, and my Dad texted "who is that?" (LOL)
During every session of my coaching career, I encourage people to take risks. I challenge job seekers to do things that are productive yet uncomfortable. I teach professionals how to call high level hiring managers, but most are apprehensive because of fear of rejection and/or embarrassment. I've made a commitment to practice what I preach, so I vowed that I would talk with Mr. McCaffrey before one of us left the building. My friend kept saying, "just go - better go now - hurry up before he leaves". Armed with a smile and a few business cards, I must have gotten out of my chair at least 4 times to go talk to him, but never made it. There was no right time, as McCaffrey kept getting interrupted by folks wanting his autograph. Ugh.
About an hour after my arrival, he got up to leave. I blew it. I deflated and said "forget it" and watched him walk away. My friend says to me, "He's still here, and he's sitting by himself - go NOW!" No fear...I got up, walked over and BOOM - some other lady blocks me to have him sign her receipt. But I didn't give up. I waited patiently then approached him, introduced myself, briefly told him what I did for a living and handed him two business cards. But I didn't ask him for an autograph, nor did I ask him for help with my business needs. I mentioned that I heard on the radio about his upcoming football camp and asked how I could help. He was pleasantly shocked and thanked me for my interest.
After a few minutes of asking some great questions and actively listening, I learned everything I needed to know about his camp, target market, marketing tools, and time-line. He provided the name and number of his event coordinator and encouraged me to use him as a reference when I call her.
What's in it for me? Community service, high profile connections, shoulder to shoulder time with community leaders, and a few days of F-U-N.
No time lost: I called his coordinator and made an appointment for some face time to learn more about how I could help their organization.
Lesson learned: Get out, get connected, ask great questions, listen and determine how you can impact your community! A healthy fear of talking with high level decision makers is no different than being afraid to approach a "super star" and ask for an autograph. Most famous folks are kind human beings with busy days, families, and problems who welcome a friendly smile, casual conversation, a tiny ego boost, and a helping hand. Just because people make more money, have their picture in the paper, or play on Invesco field doesn't mean they don't want to listen to what you have to say, especially if your "presentation" has value.
Funny value add: after my conversation with "Ed" he followed me back to my table. No, he didn't ask what he could do for me; he just wanted his pen back. And no, he doesn't write with a fancy ergo sleek metal chrome pen, he uses a Bic (black ink). I could've sold that thing on Ebay and made a fortune!
During every session of my coaching career, I encourage people to take risks. I challenge job seekers to do things that are productive yet uncomfortable. I teach professionals how to call high level hiring managers, but most are apprehensive because of fear of rejection and/or embarrassment. I've made a commitment to practice what I preach, so I vowed that I would talk with Mr. McCaffrey before one of us left the building. My friend kept saying, "just go - better go now - hurry up before he leaves". Armed with a smile and a few business cards, I must have gotten out of my chair at least 4 times to go talk to him, but never made it. There was no right time, as McCaffrey kept getting interrupted by folks wanting his autograph. Ugh.
About an hour after my arrival, he got up to leave. I blew it. I deflated and said "forget it" and watched him walk away. My friend says to me, "He's still here, and he's sitting by himself - go NOW!" No fear...I got up, walked over and BOOM - some other lady blocks me to have him sign her receipt. But I didn't give up. I waited patiently then approached him, introduced myself, briefly told him what I did for a living and handed him two business cards. But I didn't ask him for an autograph, nor did I ask him for help with my business needs. I mentioned that I heard on the radio about his upcoming football camp and asked how I could help. He was pleasantly shocked and thanked me for my interest.
After a few minutes of asking some great questions and actively listening, I learned everything I needed to know about his camp, target market, marketing tools, and time-line. He provided the name and number of his event coordinator and encouraged me to use him as a reference when I call her.
What's in it for me? Community service, high profile connections, shoulder to shoulder time with community leaders, and a few days of F-U-N.
No time lost: I called his coordinator and made an appointment for some face time to learn more about how I could help their organization.
Lesson learned: Get out, get connected, ask great questions, listen and determine how you can impact your community! A healthy fear of talking with high level decision makers is no different than being afraid to approach a "super star" and ask for an autograph. Most famous folks are kind human beings with busy days, families, and problems who welcome a friendly smile, casual conversation, a tiny ego boost, and a helping hand. Just because people make more money, have their picture in the paper, or play on Invesco field doesn't mean they don't want to listen to what you have to say, especially if your "presentation" has value.
Funny value add: after my conversation with "Ed" he followed me back to my table. No, he didn't ask what he could do for me; he just wanted his pen back. And no, he doesn't write with a fancy ergo sleek metal chrome pen, he uses a Bic (black ink). I could've sold that thing on Ebay and made a fortune!
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