Blog Post: Why Being a Groupie is Imperative....

The disparaging fact of this economy, is that if you haven't already been laid off, your chances are pretty good that you could be at one time or another. My guess is that if you are on this site, you have been laid off or at least know someone who has experienced being down-sized, right-sized, re-sized or has just plain gotten the boot. No, it isn't fun! No, it isn't fair! Life isn't measured by its fairness, but by your responses.

Why Being a Groupie is Imperative...

So where does being a groupie or part of a group, come into play? I'm one of the lucky ones who has been laid off not once, not twice, but three times. For some odd reason, in an economic down-turn, marketing was the first expendable department - so I was one of the first to go. Did I say lucky ones? During those times while I was looking for work, I discovered three very important facts.

First: The more people who know you are looking for a job, the better your chances of hearing about job before it is posted. I decided it isn't always what you know, but who you know.

The person you met at a group or association can be a big help to you. You can  be a big help to them because you combine your people resources and you've doubled your chances of finding a fit for you in that elusive position.

Think about it, when you are at a networking function or any sort, you are usually at your best so you impress people with your attitude and composure even though you are searching for your next great adventure. You are NOT home wallowing in the, "Woe is me!!"

Second: The last time I was laid off, I learned at my outplacement firm to write down everyone I could possibly think of (try for at least 200) and start calling each one to catch up and tell them what you were looking for.

Think about it, by just doing those two things, you may be able to have 3-400 other people keeping their ears open for just the right position for you. Isn't it true, when you know how to help someone else, you want to. The great motivational speaker, Zig Zigler says, "If you help enough other people get what they want, you'll get what you want."

Third: Do one thing each day to move forward. Perhaps, volunteer at one of these associations or networking groups so that you can gain momentum just by feeling the energy from tho

Yes, being a groupie is imperative in helping you find your next great adventure. That is one of the reasons I joined Arizona Book Publishing Association. I was writing a book about my adventure (mis-adventure) of being laid off called, "Laid Off? Don't Stress! How to Get from Mad to Glad." Writing was one of my next great adventures and I found lots of help and support at ABPA. I'll tell you how it happened in my next posting. Stay tuned.