Since my last newsletter at the end of December 2012, a lot has happened (Where does the time go?), some of which I want to share with you. So far, the packaging and medical device fields have remained stable but there has been a jump in the automotive and sporting goods sectors for me. That’s how life is as an independent contractor. There is always variety in the kind of work you are called on to do.
Recently, some acquaintances that I had not heard from in quite some time called or emailed me. After “catching up” on what has been happening since we last spoke, it came out that in both cases, due to less work being needed, one was laid off (permanently) while the other was given a “heads up” that the business was in a declining mode with future work very uncertain.
Both had asked if I was hiring and/or if I knew of any openings in their respective fields. The answer I gave to each of them was “no” and “no.” I told them to send me their resume, which I offered keep on hand should I come across a possible “fit” for them. As for some general advice to assist them in their job search, which was asked of me by both of them, I told them the following. (Regardless of whether or not you have a job, are looking for a job or even own your own company, what I’m about to tell you is critical, given the uncertainty of the current economic scene.)
The only way to get ahead or stay ahead is to promote yourself and your company. The main point is to PROMOTE! At the very least, you have to have a business card to hand out. (Most companies provide their employees with business cards.) This is especially important to those still in school, recent graduates and those working at part-time or intern type jobs. I recently attended a mixer where soon-to-graduate students and recent graduates were present, along with members of local companies looking for possible employees.
Can you believe that none of the students I spoke to had business cards! They did have copies of their resumes, which was better than nothing but not as important as a business card. If I have your name and contact data on a business card, it is easier to use or to pass on to another. By the way, when you give someone your business card, give them two, so they can have one to pass along. If I am told, “Well, I’m still in school and do not have the money for business cards,” my answer is, Can you afford $0? Yes, you can get 250 business cards for free, with you only having to pay for shipping. The company that provides these free business cards is: www.VistaPrint.com. They also can provide premium (fancy) business cards and other printed products that you do pay for. Get some business cards and always have a few with you.
As always, if you need any help with taking some of the cost out of your products due to an inherently expensive design or from manufacturing (assembly line) issues, please give me a call. I am certain I can help you. As I always say, “Big or small, we do it all.”
I am running out of space, so I will continue my discussion of the vital necessity of promotion and additional steps you need to take in my next newsletter. For now, getting business cards is so basic that I consider it “Step #0.” Just do it!
With Memorial Day behind us “summer” is now here. It is the time for really working hard to line up that new job, as the competition is less while others take vacations. Work at it!