Your CEO of ME, Inc. Checklist

Most of you have already figured out that there is no such thing as a “finish line” in the race for 21st century jobs and career management. How can there be? What is there that can ever possibly be “finished”? The work involved to position yourself as a uniquely qualified candidate never ends, not even after you’ve landed a targeted position.

It’s safer to think of the race for 21st century jobs and career management as a race with an unlimited number of competitors and no discernible end, no finish line. As you’ve seen, the real work of keeping yourself competitive never ends.

Below is a checklist of making sure you are staying focused on being the best CEO of ME, Inc.:
1. Think, speak, and act like a business owner because you are one … you own your career.
2. As the CEO of your career, you are in control, it’s your move. You assume full responsibility.
3. Take charge of your career not just for yourself, but for your Personal Board of Directors.
4. Adopt mental toughness and a “positive mental attitude” in everything you do as a CEO of ME, Inc. Don’t just think it – do it! Do not outsource or delegate your career management to another entity.
5. Master the art of small talk and start making connections.
6. Never forget that solid, effective networking is always built on trust and reciprocity. If you understand and value both, there’s no end to the growth of your network and career.
7. Vigorously build and track your network.
8. Networking is smart business – build your network before you need it.
9. Protect your networking connectors and appreciate your networking advocates.
10. Be completely familiar with your own skills and talents (Build Your Brand).
11. Remember: Benefits Always Trump Features … You need to give people motivation if you want them to help you. You need to sell the benefit.
12. The combination of a top-notch value proposition and extraordinary networking will get you to your desired career goals.

You can do it … I know you can!

Coach Rod