Courting Your Career – Book Review
I began reading Shawn Graham’s book, “Courting Your Career” on a flight from Harrisburg to Chicago. Even though I’m not looking to change my career, it was good company.
It might surprise you that I’m saying a book subtitled, “Match Yourself with the Perfect Job,” was good company. However, Shawn’s innovative use of courtship as a metaphor and framework for finding your perfect career resulted in an entertaining and enlightening read. Chapter titles include; Playing the Field, The Meet Market, and Dinner and a Movie.
In addition, Shawn seasons his book with wit and humor that draws readers along and lightens the mood. While reading about the importance of networking, you’ll come across this gem. You should be networking everywhere except, “police stations and prisons.”
“Courting Your Career” may be funny but it’s not frivolous. The night before my flight, I returned a call from a college student who asked if he should follow-up a job interview with a phone call. I told the student that I appreciate a follow up call after I interview potential instructors and suggested he do the same. The next day, somewhere over Ohio, Shawn confirmed that 82% of executives think you should follow up within two weeks.
Furthermore, I loved the sample scripts. For example, you’ll learn how to keep the door open at the end of a short conversation that didn’t go as well as you hoped. Finally, Shawn adds value by identifying a wealth of career-search-resources found outside his book. Locating external resources completes this tool chest for career hunters.
I’m recommending “Courting Your Career” to at least two groups of readers, those searching for careers and those helping others find their “Perfect job.”
*****
Tomorrow, Shawn Graham is guest blogging for Leadership Freak and we’re giving away three signed copies of his book.
*****
What career hunting advice have you given or received that enabled you to land your “Perfect job?”
*****
Leadership Freak
Dan Rockwell
You can receive Leadership Freak in your email. It’s free. It’s private. Go to the main page of Leadership Freak by clicking the red banner at the top of this page, look in the right-hand navigation bar, enter your email and click subscribe. Your email address is always kept private. Note: if it doesn’t arrive, check your spam filter for a confirmation email.
Dan, I don’t fall into either of the two groups that you mention above, however, the book sounds intriguing to me. I have been enjoying LF for about a month now and look forward to the insight each day.
Carolynne,
Thank you very much for your kind words. I’m honored. I’ll add that it always feels good to hear a good word.
I hope you stop in tomorrow and leave s comment. Perhaps you’ll win a copy of Shawn’s book.
Regards,
Dan
I am nervously yet confidently playing the field. Phone calls to keep in touch without nagging the hiring manager seem to work.
Ashlin,
Very glad you have some confidence to off set your nerves. If I was looking for a new career, I think I’d be tipping the scales on nervousness!
Best to you in your search
Dan