How about working for free? That communicates your message
loud and clear. You don't have to do it for a long time--anywhere
from weeks to months. And when you set up your arrangement,
make it clear you hope this leads to a permanent position.
With this type of relationship you: 1) get experience,
2) show an employer you're willing to do whatever it takes
to make their company a success and 3) might end up with
a job.
Working for free is different than a traditional internship.
Internships are monitored work experiences with specific
learning goals. Most are through larger companies. Many
are set up through universities. Sometimes you're paid,
sometimes you're not. If that's what you're looking for,
check out the National Directory of Internships at the
library.
Don't approach large companies with this working-for-free
idea. They've got complex bureaucracies that wouldn't know
how to handle a request like this. Most likely you'll be
welcomed you with open arms at these type of organizations:
- Non-profit organizations. Millions of volunteers wind
up with paying jobs at non-profit organizations each
year, says Bob Weinstein, author of "I'll Work for Free" (Henry
Holt). But you need to understand where they're coming
from. Unlike a profit-making company, their goal is to
come up with solutions to social, political and environmental
problems. You need to speak their language which is "improving
the quality of life." Call you local United Way office
for a list of non-profit organizations. o Entrepreneurial
companies. Entrepreneurs are willing to take chances.
Show them you too are willing to roll up your sleeves,
be innovative and do what ever it takes. That's what
they've done. To find entrepreneurs:
- Attend a local meeting of entrepreneurs in your
area. Check with your Chamber of Commerce or newspaper
for their meeting dates.
- See if your Chamber of Commerce is affiliated with
a venture capitalist group and attend one of their
meetings.
- Business incubators. Incubators are where start ups
and fledgling firms share office space and services.
They offer a nurturing environment for mostly light manufacturing
and service firms or people developing new products.
- Troubled companies. This could be a firm that's having
cash flow problems or trouble staying competitive. "Company
heads practically kill for smart, gutsy workers who don't
crumble under pressure," according to the author of "I'll
Work for Free." "Imagine what a grateful boss will do
for someone who worked night and day to revive a failing
company. You could end up with an exciting, high-profile
career."
Tip: The language entrepreneurs and other profit-making
companies speak is quite different than non-profits. They're
in it to create cutting edge products and services and
make money.
Be creative with all of these approaches. Opportunities
won't jump out at you. Plan what you'll say. Look for problems
you can help these people solve. Then make them an offer
they can't refuse.
© by Andrea Kay
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