After 13 years in human resources helping employees navigate the workplace, Dedra Perlmutter changed direction and decided to help job seekers become employees

Question

The Cincinnati Career Network is not a job placement agency. Clients attend small-group workshops and get one-on-one counseling on any part of their job search. Dedra believes that “It’s essential to find a ‘go-to person’ you feel comfortable with and who will be honest and helpful.”
Dedra stresses “the power of networking—everywhere you go!” She emphasizes that networking is about giving and receiving and reminds job seekers to communicate their appreciation to the people they meet. She also promotes “LinkedIn as an important tool for both job seekers and recruiters.”
Dedra advises job seekers that “the interview starts in the parking lot, continues with the receptionist, and doesn’t end until you send your thank-you note.”
Dedra’s most heartfelt advice is to keep reminding yourself that “Rejections are not personal! Seek out others who are going through the same thing and share your experiences, disappointments, and successes.”
As a free career center, the not-for-profit Cincinnati Career Network has seen an increase in clients since the economic downturn in 2008. “Most communities have an agency like ours. Call the library or United Way to find the one near you—and go!” Dedra knows that every job search is unique and is constantly changing. “Please,” she says, “find a counselor who can coach and guide you through the process.”

What are the traits of an ideal go-to person who can give you advice about your job search?
Why do you think Dedra says that networking is about giving and receiving? What can you give the people you network with?

Answer 1

Someone who knows what they are talking about, with whom you are comfortable, and who will be honest and helpful.

People want to help people who show gratitude for their help and who help them in return. The person you help learns something about the type of employee you will be and can mention this positive trait in a recommendation letter or phone call. You can pass on phone numbers of people the person might like to meet, pass on job leads you aren’t going to use, and tell people about job fairs or professional meetings. Sending a thank-you note is a type of gift because the person knows that he or she did something positive and helpful, which is always nice to know.