Don't Get Left Behind

As the economy improves (and it will get better), communications professionals who have been unemployed and those who have survived - even thrived - during the downturn will begin looking around again. This is especially true of those who have not had the chance to progress in their current workplace over the past few years. Adding new accomplishments (think "results") to your resume and seeking out mentors are two ways to spruce yourself up for your next job. Here are some others ideas:

Make a leap.
If you've had a job within a stable company but support for your efforts has dwindled (lower budgets, smaller staff, etc.), look for potential opportunities elsewhere. Find out where you might have a better opportunity to contribute and reenergize your career.

Craft a story.
Analyze your skills, then be prepared to tell a story about yourself that illustrates the value you can add. By developing a list of your best attributes and then forming them into a coherent story, you will impress employers as someone who has achieved results and is adept at effective, convincing communications.

Devise a list.
of the top 10 companies you'd like to work for and know why. Find relatives, friends, friends of friends or former business contacts you can engage in your effort to get an informational meeting at one of your top 10 companies. Use trusted recruiters as sounding boards for your ideas.

Break in.
Volunteer your communications expertise at a nonprofit, offer to work on a freelance project, or land an internship to demonstrate to your next potential employer that you mean business. Often you can discover opportunities once you get your foot in the door.

Smile.
Don't whine, dwell on the past two years or badmouth previous employers. Hiring managers don't want people with sour attitudes. Tell all the positive stories of how you've filled your time in between jobs, and how that experience has better prepared you to solve your next employer's communications challenges.

Network.
Renew or establish a relationship with a few trusted recruiters. Remember you have to sell people on yourself as effectively as your would a potential employer to get them on your side.

Chaloner Associates is a national executive search firm specializing in communications and marketing positions.