4 Career Tips From A Media Consultant
I recently sat down with an online strategy consultant to ask her what she thought were some of the most important business lessons she has learned in her 25 years as a consultant. She gave me 4 major lessons anyone can apply in any job.
Reputation
It is so important to deliver when you say you will. You just never know where your next opportunity will come from and you’d be surprised how often people meet again a year or five years later.
A lot of people deliver on the work they promise but what separates the great consultants from the pack is the little things. Always act professionally, respond promptly to phone calls and emails, and never lie about a situation to make yourself look better or cover up anything. Those little things add up to make the entire package look even better than one that was handled appropriately but in a sloppy way.
Network
Aggressively network at all times. Not just when you want something from someone. It’s actually better to approach people when you don’t need anything because it will lower their defenses and you will get the best information. Then later, when they can help you, they will know you already and be more willing to assist however they can.
Continuous Learning
Keep taking classes in your field and fields that interest you so that you continue learning and so you’ll meet other people with similar interests who might become valuable contacts in your network.
Specialize
Never project yourself as a generalist because people will question what value you provide. Usually you will be hired because your expertise is required in a situation not your general idea or suggestion. Maintaining a niche will also make you more marketable because there are fewer people within a specialized segment as opposed to generalists.
Tags: Career Advice, Consulting, Interview
