As soon as those graduation caps hit the ground, new grads are bombarded with that toughest of questions: "What are you going to do with the rest of your life?"
Finding a job and building a career can be challenging in any economy and even more difficult during tough times. With today’s abundance of career web sites, job boards and seminars, it can be hard to know where and how to focus your energies.
But good career advice is eternal, stresses Jack Nadel, a decorated World War II hero who has made tens of millions of dollars over a 65-year career. "Regardless of the economic news, actions of the government or the natural forces that oppose us, we must build within ourselves the capability to survive, prosper and feel good," he advises.
These days, Nadel is sharing the knowledge he gained in his long career with new graduates and other members of the younger generation who are looking to get ahead. And he has made much of this advice available in a new book, entitled "Use What You Have To Get What You Want."
Here are some of Nadel’s top career tips:
? Planning is as important as hard work. Hard work is important, but running around in circles gets you nowhere. With today’s high rates of unemployment, it’s best to focus your search on jobs you are most qualified for, instead of applying for every opening in your preferred field. You might even consider spending more time building specific skill sets while job hunting. This way, when the perfect job appears, you’ll be a better fit.
? Talk to someone who’s done it successfully. The Internet abounds with self-appointed "experts," but consulting with people who are respected and successful in your industry is sure to get you better results. Tap into networks you may have built from internships or part-time jobs, as well as with former teachers.
? Prepare well. Before a job interview or meeting, repeat this advice to yourself three times: Listen. Think Positive. Project Energy. After the meeting, get back to work — either by following-up on things you discussed or by targeting your next opportunity.
? Find common ground in meetings. Try to connect with the job interviewer on a personal level. Even if it’s only something as trivial as favorite sports teams, finding common ground can create a positive atmosphere at the outset of your meeting. This may help you navigate trickier waters that arise.
? Overcome your ego. Don’t spend an entire cover letter listing your great accomplishments and attributes, but fail to tell a company what you can do for it.
"Having the right attitude and being aware of the opportunities around you can make fortune work in your favor," says Nadel, who employed this optimistic outlook when founding a marketing promotions firm, Jack Nadel Worldwide back in 1951.
For more information on being successful professionally, visit www.IdeasThatMeanBusiness.com. – Courtesy of StatePoint Media
