CADDManager on April 19th, 2008

CAD Managers move from one firm to another and the process may be short or long, depending on the prep time and the effort expended. Working (and it is work) at getting another job is tough. Moving from one firm to another is hard. Starting a new position is a strain.

When you want to move forward in your career, it helps to know a few things that might assist that move. Focusing your efforts on finding a new position takes effort.

Here are a few simple things that might help…

Define your targets. You may know of a few firms that are located where you want to be or that have a reputation for good working environments. Make a list. Sort it so the best places are at the top. Focus your efforts on these. Don’t forget the others, but look for ways to get your foot in the door at the top 5.

Work your Network. Do you know someone at one of these firms? Give them a call. Most good firms rely heavily on insider referrals. Without someone on the inside, your resume may just sit in someones pile of paperwork. Contact these “old friends” and se what they may do to help you.

Interview early and often. Get face to face as much as possible. You need to get in front of people and they need to interact with you. Interviewing is the process that helps you know if it is a good fit and helps the firm know if you are a team player.

Be Prepared. To tell your story. Know the best stories from your past that apply to your future. Know the story behind your resume. Know what talents you bring and sing about them.

Be a Team Player. Firms are not longer looking for “one man shows”. It is a team environment that move corporations now. Talk about your team building skills. Mention your ability to reach consensus on difficult issues. Talk about your ability to create productive teams.

Look for a good fit. For them and for you. You do not want to work at a place that is not in need of what you have to offer. You should know what you management perspectives are and you should let them know what they are getting if they hire you. If it is a good fit, then things will pop. If it is a bad fit, then move on to another opportunity.

Don’t give up. Good firms keep track of good people that did not make it into the firm the first time around. Your resume will be maintained and when they look for another person (or the one they hired does not pan out) they may come looking for you.

Leave a Reply