Looking for Work? FRANK Can Help
I fell into Talent Acquisition and Career Coaching at first, but I stayed for the people. My big idea? If I can help enough other people find work, I’ll never have to work myself. So far? It’s working out.
I celebrate with people every week, as they land jobs, pivot careers, and build high-impact networks. One thing I know for sure: Networking beats job boards. Every. Single. Time.
The other thing I know for sure is that no one - no one - networks better than FRANK. Who's FRANK, you ask? I'll tell you. Or, maybe, you tell me...
FRANK
is a system that keeps your search organized and your network continually expanding. It's easy, too. To get started, just open a spreadsheet or notebook and write these letters across the top of the page, BINGO style: F R A N K.
Under the "F" list the names of five to seven Friends.
Under the "R" write down five to seven names of people you're Related to.
"A" is for Associates: Anyone you've ever worked with or known through work.
The "N" in this game stands for Networking Groups. Think beyond that Employment Group you meet with once a month, and identify other groups of people you see on a regular basis. Book club, a class you're enrolled in, the la crosse or hockey parents you sit with at your kids' games... these are all Networking Groups. Who do you know?
"K" stands for Key Connections. As you look back over the other 4 columns, who is in the best position to help you? Who knows you best, knows what you do, works at a target company, or might otherwise be a good resource for you in your search? Highlight or circle the names of your Key Connections.
Now, jump back to your contacts on your phone, on LinkedIn or on other socials, and start connecting with the people on your list. Look them up, reach out and say hello, let them know you're looking for work, and ask what they are up to. Is there any way you can help them move something forward? If so, do so. Right away. Paying it forward always pays off. Plus, it's the right thing to do, and people appreciate it, so do that.
After you connect with someone, cross their name off your list and add another name in that column. Some lists are easier to keep up with; others will stretch your network and your networking skills. For example, my sister became friends with the delivery person at work, so she put that person's name under Associates. In the Relatives category, it doesn't take long to move outside your usual circle. Your nephew's girlfriend's cousin is a Relative. What's their name again? Write it down.
Go slow, be friendly, stay organized and... keep in touch! Once you've found a new gig, thank the people who've helped you along the way, and continue to connect with them. When you need them, it's great to have relationships with people you like and respect. And when you don't need them, it's even better.
