The world of job search can be an uncharted place.

I can’t think of any activity that is so specific to one’s background, while at the same time one that we generally don’t practice a whole lot until the crisis is upon us.

Over most of our careers for us stable financial types, practicing the art of job search would not be a good use of our time. There are budgets and financial statements to prepare, and always meetings to go to.

So, when we find ourselves active in our search, what are the basic steps to take?

First and foremost I would suggest taking the approach we have probably taken to most work related activities: we should do a little research. Anyone who has not read a few books on this process is doing themselves a disservice. There are lots of good books on the market, but one targeted to senior folks would be best. Although it is a little dated at this point, Rites of Passage by John Lucht is one I have read. It covers a lot of still relevant ground.

But, after we have done our reading, what is next? The next step is to talk with folks just like you – your fellow members of The FENG.

It has always been my experience that reading all about it is like drinking water from a fire hose. Within all of the material available for my attention, what is the most important and how would I know? I compare it to an Excel class I once took. All of those techniques were great, but they were solutions to problems I wasn’t working on at the time and haven’t since. Over the course of the whole day, however, there were several things discussed that I use, even now, almost every day.

By reaching out to others who are just like you, (okay, perhaps not as good looking) you have the opportunity to seek out knowledge on the greatest pitfalls facing your search.

Things like what to say during your 90-second announcement, choosing an executive coach, or any of the myriad other decisions that are staring you in the face.

Seeking out help is what The FENG is all about, and I hope you will use its resources often. There are others who have already tackled the very issue you are facing.

And as we all know, there is no purpose in reinventing the wheel.

Regards, Matt