Reprinted with permission © 2008 TreeTop Technologies
The best IT professionals use project management skills; this is, after all, still one of the fields where project management plays the biggest role. Have you ever considered putting those project skills to the task of finding the right job for you? Or the right person for a job you need to fill?
The same skills that can guide you in bringing in a successful project-on time, on budget and on the mark-are skills that can help you navigate the job search or recruitment process.
Setting Objectives - If you don't know what you want to begin with, you're already in rough waters. So, establish goals and the strategies and tactics you will use to achieve results.
Documenting Progress - It has been said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. "Lessons learned" are a key way to improve your performance. Keep tabs on how you're doing so that you might have a better idea of what you could be doing better and what you need to stop doing.
Scheduling - Planning, preparation, and execution are critical factors. You need to make sure you aren't trying to juggle too many prospects at one time. Also, establish a timeline for things like thank-you calls/notes and follow-up contacts.
People Skills - Always work your network. Good project managers know how to keep conversations on track and how to manage people. Both skills are critical for getting your foot in the door with a company or a prospect, as well as for the all-important interview stage.
Aligning Project to Business Goals - Whether you need a job or need to fill one, the bottom line is return on investment. Pareto's Principle, the 80/20 Rule, should serve as a daily reminder to focus 80 percent of your time and energy on the 20 percent of you work that is really important. Don't just "work smart", work smart on the right things. Make sure your needs match up with the company you are targeting or the prospect you are interviewing. Don't put too much time and effort into long-shot efforts or try too hard to bolster a sagging or seemingly doomed effort, either.
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Footnotes: From "View from the TreeTop" Volume 2 Issue 11 November 2008