The Viable Podcast
This podcast is to help survivors of abuse and exploitation who want to build a life after overcoming traumatic events. Remarkable individuals who have overcome human trafficking, domestic violence, IPV, and aging out of foster care are all facing an economic cliff when the aftercare program ends and agency services stop. No matter the language, religion, or culture, the critical questions top of mind for people facing transition are, “How am I going to support myself when I leave here? How am I going to build a life for me and my family?” They wonder how their criminal background and their recovery from addiction will affect their chances of success versus recidivism. Meanwhile, business leaders have taken risks and worked hard to build great companies that need workers and offer safe and healthy work environments, yet these leaders struggle to hire people from programs because the workers "don't stick." There's an abundance of government and community programs offering traditional job readiness, workforce development, and career coaching services. Yet, the reality is that survivors are not bridging the gap to "thrive." Join us to hear raw stories, innovative strategies, and real talk to fuel survivors as they find their own path and overcome barriers to build a life of purpose, financial independence, meaningful employment, and healthy community.
The Viable Podcast
Part 3 of 3 in How-To Series: "What can I do today to start moving forward?" - Who Do You Know? (Hint: Sitting Around on LinkedIn, Indeed & Socials Isn't the Answer)
You are playing a game of "Connect the Dots." This is also known as "networking."
Your Goal?
Connect with people at a company you like to ask for their advice and assistance.
Why is this important?
Once you are connected to someone at the company you like, you can:
- be introduced to leaders at that company;
- learn from them about what the work is actually like every day so you can know if it is something you want to pursue;
- know how their hiring process works and what you can do to do to get a job there; and
- learn what kind of education you need (if any) before you apply at the company.
*This is very different than submitting a job application online with no connection to the company.
Option A:
If you have connections at a company you like:
- call them! (do not text them)
- ask them for time with them to learn more about their company and get their advice.
You > Company Contact
Option B:
If you do NOT have connections at a company or within an industry you like, you will have an extra step.
You > Person You Know > Company Contact
You want to connect with people who:
- know you,
- like you, and
- want to help you.
Example Contacts to Ask:
- agency staff / case manager;
- agency volunteers, donors, Board Members;
- teachers, pastor, mentor;
- friends, family, etc.
What do you say?
To connect with people about a particular industry:
- Ask: "Who do you know in the [insert industry you like here] industry?"
Example: “Who do you know in the healthcare industry?”
To connect with people about a particular company:
- Ask: "Who do you know at [insert the name of the company you like here]?"
Example: “Who do you know at ABC Company?”
Ultimate action step to hit your goal:
"Would you be willing to connect me with them?"
Or
"Would you be willing to help me get connected with them?"
Bonus Challenge: Call the CEO of a company you like and ask them for 10 minutes of their time to get their advice.
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Thank you for listening and subscribing.
Please send questions, ideas and other input by:
Text/DM to (615)475-5717
Or
Email at ben@viableinc.org
For more information, visit viableinc.org