Your job support team

One of the biggest mistakes people make when they are laid off is to isolate themselves. They feel sorry for themselves, angry at the company because they feel betrayed, and in this state, hopelessness sets in quickly.{{more}}

Job seekers who are serious about moving on are starting a new trend by putting a new spin on the old mastermind groups. They are meeting to encourage each other, share job leads, critique resumes and offer interview advice.

The group becomes your personal pep squad and advisor, and it takes the sting out of what could be an emotionally crippling time. If you have a few friends who are unemployed, consider the mastermind group concept. Here are a few guidelines.

•  What is a mastermind group? It’s a group of three to seven people who hold each other accountable for the goals and aspirations of each member and the group as a whole.

•  Who can join? The group should consist of committed individuals who all have something they would like to accomplish. In reality, the more diverse the group is, in terms of life and professional experience, the better the dynamics will be.

•  How does it work? The group agrees to meet quarterly, monthly, weekly, or daily. The meetings can be held face to face, in person, or in a virtual setting (over the Internet) or by phone. Some groups initially meet on the phone on a daily basis as a way to get their days going and focus their activity.

•  How long are the meetings? Meetings do not need to be long at all. Each person should be allotted the same time frame to discuss their goals and ideas; the group should then take a specified amount of time to offer support and advice when appropriate. Total meeting times can range from fifteen minutes to three hours. Two important notes about time: first, find a schedule that works for the group and stick to it; second, if a schedule does not work, change it quickly.

•  What kinds of goals should be set? Goals can be short term or long term or both, personal and/or professional. Some groups set a three-goal limit, but that is a choice to be made by the group. Make sure all goals meet the S.M.A.R.T. criteria – goals must be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time specific.

•  What are some of the pitfalls? Mastermind groups sometimes fail miserably because the members are not committed. Though you will likely not have 100 per cent attendance or participation all the time, it is imperative to try.

Karen Hinds President/CEO –
Workplace Success Group,
Toll Free: 1-877-902-2775;
Tel: 1-203-757-4103
A CT Winner of the Make Mine a Million Dollar Business award!
Karen@WorkplaceSuccess.com