From the Blog

A recent email I wanted to share....

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

This was from a gentleman who attended the alumni event I spoke at in Dallas...nice words about the book and the event I wanted to share for those interested in learning first hand how the thoughts in this book can help you.

Steve Novak wrote....

"Since your visit, I have read your book and applied some of the principles to my own career. First, I have a better understanding of what my dream job is, and the types of roles that provide satisfaction to me. Although my current role and
industry are not exactly my dream job, I have found the elements within it that bring out my passion. Additionally, I’ve begun to create my brand around those elements. It has provided me not only with greater satisfaction in my current role, but also a better understanding of what I am bringing to the table. From this, I have a better understanding of my market value, and am in the process of creating options for myself (both inside the company, and out). For all of that, I cannot THANK YOU enough.

Thanks once again,
Steve Novak
stevenovak19@hotmail.com

Steve, exactly what you shared is why I spent 2.5 years at a coffee shop writing this book for a couple hours a day. Thank you for your kind words and I am hopeful it can continue to be a tool for you throughout your professional career.

Molly

 

 

Be A Five Tool Player In Michigan
Saturday, April 25, 2009
I returned to Atlanta Wednesday after two busy, but rewarding days in Michigan.

After processing my trip, speeches and various conversations I want to reiterate to everyone to hang around five tool people. People who have passion, are fearless, have a game plan, are eager to execute so that together you can create choices for yourselves.

Many people in Michigan are dealing with such tough economic times it was heart wrenching to talk with some of the people who are dealing with these issues. I hope my talks helped insert energy into people who are dealing with these discouraging times. I talked to young people who are working hard to insert themselves in the work force and older people who are working to reinvent themselves. One of the most important ingredients to ones ability to succeed is a great attitude. It is the one thing everyone can control so do everything you can to remain positive and surround yourself with five tool people. Please, I promise, it matters.

 

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Heading to Michigan

Friday, April 17, 2009

Wheels up on Monday to the great state of Michigan. I am looking forward to speaking to two different groups. Monday night in East Lansing and Tuesday night in Troy. Landing on Michigan soil is always special. Many people have been through so many tough times as of late in light of the economy. I am hopeful that my job search philosophies will insert spirit and hope - and a game plan - in so many great Michigan people!

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I didn't get the mic long enough...

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Thursday I was part of a panel in Atlanta with other corporate executives. It was quite a large group of people eager to learn and share ideas. I had to share the mic so I couldn't expand on each and every question to the depth that some of the questions deserved. So, I wanted to take a second and expand on the last question which was "What advice would you give the audience as they move forward in this environment?" I answered by saying I would encourage all of you to BE FEARLESS. To want the ball. I am surrounded by athletes and coaches who want the ball when it's the 9th inning or want to coach their team in the national championship game and give the half time speech of their life. They embrace the opportunity to be, "the guy."

If I had more time to answer the question Thursday I would have added, if your looking for a job, be fearless in your approach. Make the phone call, send the email – don't be afraid of "no". I meet people who are afraid of getting "no" so they do nothing at all. You must be fearless in your actions so you can close the relationship gap. One way to do this is by asking for advice. I often say, if you ask for a job you get advice, if you ask for advice you may get a job. Most decent people will give you 15 minutes. Spend 15 minutes getting advice, impress them enough that they might give you three names of people they believe will also be kind enough to spend 15 minutes with you and give you advice. If you are fearless in your job pursuit, you will get in front of all kinds of people, make it a goal for them to either help you or hire you. You can only build relationships and get in front of people, if you are fearless.

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Consistent-Passion-Knowledge Sparks Fearlessness!

Monday, February 23, 2009

I love to give real life examples in my blog – a recent topical subject is Jeff Francoeur (right fielder for the Atlanta Braves) contract negotiation. Baseball contracts for players are handled based on a players years of big league service time. Jeff was in his first year of arbitration which is basically the first time he has the rights to negotiate for a higher salary. Jeff was consistent in his position from the beginning of the off season and he was passionate about being compensated fairly. We kept him well informed and prepared. Jeff and our approach to this process is applicable to how you must approach your career search – consistent-passionate-knowledgeable will stimulate fearlessness.

How do you utilize consistency, passion, knowledge to become fearless? You must remain consistent in your passion for your career. Your consistent passion is what will allow you to remain fearless. In other words, your consistent passion overwhelms the negative voice inside of you that wants to tell you "you can't do this" or "just forget it". Your consistent passion will beat out your fears. Your fearlessness is what will continue to create opportunities for you to influence those who you are "recruiting". Additionally, you must be knowledgeable about the people for which you are working to build relationships. You must be informed as to what is new in their business, with their competition and with their clients. In other words, being prepared with relevant knowledge allows you to insert calmness and strength into your overall style.

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