Telephone Tips for Job Seekers
by Wendy Weiss

In today's economy, many people are looking for work. Here are some ways that you can use your introductory calling skills to help find that dream job.

First, go through your address book, Rolodex, database or however you keep your contacts and make a list of your friends, acquaintances and business contacts. We all know more people than we believe we do. If you take the time to do this, you will be astonished at the number of contacts you have!

Then, look at your list and determine what help, advice or resources each contact could provide. All of your contacts may not have the help, advice or resources that you seek, but a lot of them will. Determine who on your list is most suited to help. Under each person's name, write down all of the items that you believe they may be able to help you with. Then, prioritize those items. For each contact, choose the most important item on the possible help list. You may only be able to ask once.

Develop your script using the following formula:

• Introduce yourself. "Hello, Jane. This is (your name goes here)."
• If your target does not know you well, remind her how you met. "We met last year at (fill in the blank)."
• Briefly explain your situation. "I am planning a career change…"
• Then say, "I was hoping you might be able to help me." The word "help" is very powerful. People like to help.
• Ask for what you want.
• Whether or not your contact is able to help you, thank them profusely.
• Move on to your next contact.

If you follow the above instructions, you will greatly enhance your ability to network, develop new business contacts and ferret out career opportunities.

About the Author: Wendy Weiss