ALTITUDE

ALTITUDE is the direction, focus and motivation that you need to begin thinking about the specific kind of career, job or business opportunity that you want.

First, decide what kind of work you want to do and where you want to do it. This will become your target.

Second, prepare a personal marketing plan for reaching your target.

Think of your target as a sighting scope with four cross-hairs.

Research each area of the target to help you make decisions about your own personal career target.

You can also do informational interviews with people who work in an occupation or industry you are targeting. Ask them questions about their jobs, industries and personal career paths.

Other sources of information are trade associations, trade magazines and newspapers. You can find resources for these on the Internet.

YOUR PERSONAL MARKETING PLAN

Develop a marketing plan for each one of your career targets. (Limit yourself to two.)

1. Write an accomplishment-based resume tailored for each career target.
    
2. Prepare letters:
   • For requesting information and contacts,
   • As a cover letter for sending your resume,
   • For sending follow-ups and thank yous after interviews.
      
3. Develop a networking script — your "30-second resume" — to use for concisely telling people what you are looking for. Use your four-part target as a guide.
    
4. Make a list of target organizations and contacts for your search for a new job or career opportunity.
    
5. Gather information you will need for completing job applications and contacting references.
    
6. Set up a way to organize and keep track of all your contacts.

REMEMBER...

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.
Proverbs 16:9

"How to Walk Through a Crossroads in Your Career™" and all excerpts © 2009 Crossroads Career® Services, Inc. All rights reserved.  Used by permission. Contents distributed by WorkLife.org > used for non-profit teaching purposes only.

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