Immobilization

Just this week alone, two executives honestly admitted to me that they were immobilized ... basically stalled when it came to enacting carefully considered job-search plans. One has the "luxury" of being currently employed (and is generally satisfied, but is, at a different level, looking for something more). The other, surprisingly, had been out of work (obviously, well-funded) for nearly three years before seeking my assistance.

This is not necessarily a new phenomenon. Over the years, I've watched successful professionals succumb to inertia when it comes to actually taking those first job-search steps once they've got the foundation established (networking cards, new suits, current resume, new voicemail message, updated eyeglasses/hairstyle, etc.). For those that are reasonably comfortable, moving outside their true comfort zone into the quick-paced and, sometimes, angst-producing world of job-search networking, cold-calling, and persistent follow-ups can be a tad intimidating. But after making the decision to spend time and other resources 'getting to the dance,' it seems inefficient at best and a waste at the other end of the spectrum to simply idle.

What strategies work best to bring someone from a state of readiness to making something happen? Simply put: Deadlines. And an accountability partner. The best success comes--just as it does in the work environment--when there is a clear objective, measurable milestones, and accountability. All of this is likely to work best when there is a commitment in writing.

First, document your goal and include a timeline for that, as in, CFO of a top healthcare organization in the Southeast by the end of 2006. Whether on your PC or in a journal, compile all search-related activities in one place.

Next, structure weekly activities with interim deadlines to support your search efforts. Suggested activities include the following: Organize contacts from planner, Rolodex, and business card file into target groups. Based on the number, prioritize into groups of 25 with "A" contacts representing your best prospects, "B" the next tier, and so forth. Plan to begin calls/e-mails to each batch of contacts on a weekly basis. As the weeks progress, activities will be augmented by lunch meetings, talks over coffee, follow-up mailings of resumes/leadership addendum materials, etc. You'll also intersperse actual interviews, follow-up thank-you letters, second interviews, etc. All of these activities build momentum and energy for the search (and are typically a direct path to success).

The final step that makes all of the above as effective as possible? The accountability component. Checking in weekly with a close colleague* for support, encouragement, and grounding, when needed, is the essential link in the job-search mobilization game plan. (*Can also be a dedicated spouse or partner or a trusted career professional).

If you've found yourself at the starting gates of job search with everything literally ready to go but, somehow, inexplicably, minus the spark, try these strategies as a catalyst to energize your efforts!