Tell us about yourself and your career.

I have been in sales for over 25 years.

Why were you looking for a job?

I left the last job due to a difference of opinion between a new coach and me. That was almost a year ago.

How did you discover PAGCG?

I found PAGCG through a networking event in Great Valley, and Lynne Williams was there. I instantly did everything I could to become Lynne’s groupie and found her to be so helpful. She would ask people where they wanted to work, and often, Lynne knew someone at one or more companies and offered to connect them. I quickly became a Bronze member. Lynne helped me with her LinkedIn workshops, tips for resumes, having a positive attitude, and focusing on a career change.

How did PAGCG help you in your job search?

I enhanced my job search by first updating my LinkedIn profile according to Lynne Williams’ brilliant instructions, and I redid my resume for each different ad I answered, using Les Segarnick’s perfect method.

How did you find your job? How long did it take?

It took 11 months of looking. I was looking for a place that fit me and I fit them; it wasn’t just about money. From the day I found an opening that seemed perfect, it took two business days to get an offer. I looked on LinkedIn at this company’s employees and found one I “knew”. We were connected and we had met, but I just couldn’t remember where or when. Over the years I attended many network events for HR, most recently SHRM. He interviewed me first and a day later I was interviewed via Facetime by the man who is now my boss. He made me an offer on that call.

What kept you motivated during the job search, especially during the downtimes?

I went to many of the events, and I’m happy I did. The hosts, speakers, and the other people there who were also looking for work were so supportive, down-to-earth, and helpful. I made many connections.

What were the lessons that you learned during your job search?

Become a Bronze member of PAGCG and go to the events (they are all virtual for now). Grow your network.

Do you have any networking tips or tricks that you can share?

Grow your network. These events are a lifeline.

What will you do in your new role?

My new employer is national. My job is to call clients and prospects nationally; I’m the only one doing this; I filled a brand new position. My boss calls me his “secret weapon” and has big plans for me. I love this company and everyone in it. Most of the people have been there for 10 and 20 years.

What is one takeaway or nugget of wisdom that you would like to share?

Never give up. Create a system and work it. My system is an Excel tracker for jobs applied, a Word file for each prospective ad and my responses as well as phone calls and emails.