For over 20 years, I have been helping leading companies find top talent and qualified job seekers find new jobs. It has been an incredible journey – continually learning and always rewarding.
My passion for training and consulting has led me into two related areas: I teach best practices to recruiters and search consultants globally. I am also an employability expert witness for legal cases. This business has more than doubled in the last year.
People often ask me how I stay motivated and where my business ideas come. In essence, I’m asked: “What drives me?” It’s a question we all need to answer to be fulfilled in our careers and personal lives.
Motivation is everywhere. Look around your desk. Around mine are: Photos of my family, words and phrases “12 Keys to Making the Connection,” “How to Make Every Conversation Count” and “You are the Brand.” Next to a Derek Jeter rookie card is a Mariano Rivera signed baseball. “Top 20 Ski Resorts in North America” and a comic strip my father-in-law sent me about executive recruiters. And, technology – iPhone, computer, speakers, video. A sheet which tracks interviews with companies and candidates.
What have I learned along the way?
It is the intangible things that are most important:
Passion, Trust, Reputation. Relationships with people.
Passion. What do you love to do? When you do it, you are naturally enthusiastic. People hear it in your voice and see it in your actions. You don’t second guess yourself. Work isn’t work: It is play. The rewards come, personally and financially.
Trust. How do you earn it with others? Your actions are followed by your words. People can count on you. You sincerely want to assist others in achieving their goals. Your behavior is consistent. You deliver time and time again.
Reputation. What do people think of when they think of you? Upbeat. Positive. Hard-working. Results-oriented. Trustworthy. A person of your word, who can be counted on. One who truly cares about others.
How to develop all? Follow-through. Show people your genuine interest over time. Find out what’s important to them. Connect with them on a personal level. Be proactive and sincere.
Start in two ways:
1. Reach out. Say, “Hi John, I’m following up about XYZ and I’m interested in working with you because…” In today’s electronic world, distinguish yourself by calling! A phone conversation, or even leaving a voice message, is more personal and conveys emotion.
2. Use social media. Amazing tools exist today to find, engage and partner with others. Become comfortable and confident in using LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Skype. Maybe start your own blog to showcase your talents.
People who achieve their goals are relentless. In changing times, they continue forward undaunted. I have a plaque hung in my office that I’ve had since college. It states:
“There is only one success – to be able to spend your life in your own way.”
I ask you: What motivates you and how do you want to spend your life?