Some strategery

I finally got some professional help today.

Not that kind, although that wouldn't be bad. I talked to the head of a staffing agency for some tips on what to say and not to say in interviews as well as how to follow up. I feel I've done a good job of setting up initial meetings, but I don't really know what's next.

She had several ideas on the follow up. In general, she said I'm handling the initial interviews well although I have to sell myself more and be a little closer to the vest with a few of my priorities.

That can be difficult. Part of the fun of being in journalism was the fact you weren't beholden to anything or anyone. Your job was to ask tough questions and not worry about feelings. Now, I have to worry about feelings and read facial cues to know when or if I should ask questions.

And I have to be persistent. I think the number one adjustment I'm going to have is the fact that people don't HAVE to call me back anymore. Leaving a message won't cut it. I'll have to call multiple times until I get a meeting and then I have to nail the meeting. That's a different mindset.

Well, it's noon and I'm supposed to have a telephone interview any second now. Perhaps I can put some of the advice into practice.