Step Five: The Power of Expert Guidance in Your Job Search Journey

We’re on step five of our Ten Part Series on Mastering Your Job Search in Ten Essential Steps. You can listen to previous episodes on steps one through four, along with an overview in the first episode. I

Don’t miss out on the previous steps in Mastering Your Job Search in 10 Essential Steps.

What Makes an Expert

Basically, an expert is someone who knows a lot about a particular subject and has achieved a level of mastery in their chosen field. They are characterized by having a combination of deep knowledge, experience, problem-solving abilities, and recognition by others. Though not everyone in your network will be an expert there may be someone who knows and can connect you to the type of expert you need.

Experts can be found in every career field and are not necessarily the top dog within an organization. Consider the following job titles for identifying experts:

Academic Researchers: Professors, scientists, and scholars who conduct research and publish their studies
Industry Professionals: Professionals who have accumulated years of experience and expertise
Consultants: Subject matter experts who provide specialized knowledge and advice to organizations and individuals.
Trainers and Coaches: Professionals who provide training, coaching, and mentorship to help individuals develop specific skills or achieve goals.

Watch Video: Step Five: Step Five: The Power of Expert Guidance in Your Job Search Journey

Step Five: The Power of Expert Guidance in Your Job Search Journey

Join host Laura in this episode of Authentic Career + Life Design as she explores the game-changing benefits of seeking expert guidance in your job search journey.

Listen to this episode on your favorite podcast player:

Connecting with an Expert

Platforms like LinkedIn offer a treasure trove of potential experts. Explore your connections or join relevant groups to connect with professionals in your desired industry. Don’t overlook your alma mater’s alumni network; it can be a goldmine of potential mentors and advisors.

In the blog post, Step Four: Network Effectively: Moving Beyond Small Talk to Unleash the Power of Genuine Connection in Networking, we cover networking basics such as crafting your elevator pitch and navigating career conversations. Check it out for further info on how to connect with an expert.

Questions to Ask an Expert

Just like in networking, you will need to define your goals. Getting an audience with an expert may be more difficult. Having a plan for the meeting will help you make the most of their time and yours.

Be sure you have something to take notes on such as a notebook and pen, laptop, or tablet. Ask at the beginning of your meeting whether you can take notes.

Side Note: For me, few things are more frustrating than when a client shows up unprepared to take notes and asks me, at the end of the session, if I can share the notes I took.

Your main goal in meeting with an expert is to gain insider knowledge. Experts often have deep insights into specific industries, companies, or job markets. The majority of your time will be spent on gathering the following information:

Industry Trends: This is a rare opportunity to gain valuable insights into the current landscape, emerging developments, and future directions within the industry from someone in the trenches.

Here are some questions you might consider asking:

What are the most significant trends currently shaping the industry?
How have recent technological advancements impacted the industry, and what emerging technologies are expected to have the greatest influence?
How is the workforce evolving within the industry, and what skills are becoming increasingly valuable or in demand?
What are the key challenges or obstacles that companies in the industry are facing?
How are industry leaders innovating and differentiating themselves to stay competitive in the market?
What are the implications of global economic trends or geopolitical developments on the industry?
Are there any sustainability or ethical considerations that are becoming more prominent within the industry?
What predictions do you have for the future of the industry in the next 5-10 years?
What advice do you have for someone entering (or re-entering) the industry?

Resume and Cover Letter Feedback: Experts can review your documents and offer personalized feedback to help you highlight your strengths and tailor your application to specific roles.

Once you have established a rapport, ask if they are willing to take a look at your job search materials and give you feedback. Have a printed copy of your resume with you and offer to share it with them electronically after the meeting.

Networking Guidance: Experts can provide advice on how to expand your professional network, make meaningful connections, and leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to enhance your job search.

Ask if they can think of anyone else who might be helpful for you to talk to. If they do, ask for an email or LinkedIn introduction.

Expert Guidance Worksheet

Use this worksheet to help you develop your plan for connecting with experts

Consider Using a Professional Career Coach

A Career Coach is an expert of a different kind. We specialize in the PROCESS; offering guidance on many aspects of your career development and job search.

In the blog post, What is keeping you from seeing a Career Coach, I cover eight reasons you might be hesitant to reach out to a professional career coach and the truths about how one might help.

Parting Thoughts

There’s no need to go it alone in your job search journey. Embrace the wealth of resources available to you and seek guidance from those who have walked the path before you. Whether you’re connecting with industry professionals, academic researchers, consultants, or career coaches, tapping into their knowledge and experience can provide invaluable insights and support.

Resources

Articles

Ericsson, K. A., Prietula, M. J., & Cokely, E. T. (July-August 2007). The Making of an Expert. Harvard Business Review. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/2007/07/the-making-of-an-expert.

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