Not long ago I met with colleagues for a meeting of the minds. It was a fun time, listening to others share their successes; ask questions and offer support and answers whenever possible. I always seem to learn something new and leave with a new technique to try, a blog to read, or others to follow on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook.
As a professional resume writer and career coach, the main way I stay connected with others in my industry is through email, forums, electronic lists, and social media. So it is really a pleasure to be able to spend uninterrupted time face to face with colleagues.
During our visits I always try to contribute something to the meeting that helps my colleagues. Although technically we are competitors, we all improve by sharing our knowledge and the things we have learned from our successes and mistakes.
For job seekers, it can be just as isolating to go through your job search. It’s especially difficult if you haven’t looked for a new job before or at least not in recent years. These days, job seekers must understand new technologies, new resources, social media, and the importance of developing and obtaining an effective network.
A great way to advance your job search is to find a job search partner to “exercise” with. Just like when you’re starting a new fitness exercise program or working toward a new goal, having someone help, support, and hold you accountable can make a difference. The most effective partner is one who is currently also looking for work. They know firsthand the stress, frustration, fears and problems that arise during the job search.
A job search colleague reminds you that you are not alone in your job search. We all hear about high unemployment rates on the news, but sometimes it seems like you are the only one going through it. A partner is someone to vent, share, laugh and cry with, and someone to stay motivated. By helping someone else stay motivated, you have a better chance of staying motivated and working daily on your job search.
The person can also be of great help in your search. The two of you can share strategies, helpful websites, blogs, and social media. Together they can cover twice the number of job boards, networking groups and search strategies, even if you are not looking for work in the same industry or field.
You can also help each other by telling each other about your job search partner. If you are in the same field or industry, you may find many contacts who can help you or your partner. Acting as your personal advocate and sharing your information with those who will listen will help spread your value to others.
With so many benefits of having a partner in your job search, don’t wait. Find someone (and these days it’s pretty easy) who is motivated and willing to work together to move the process forward. Two pairs of eyes are better than one, get started today.