Professional Pursuits: Success Driven from Solid Connections

Michaela Kocon was on a mission to achieve her goal of securing a better job and higher pay, which in today's economy looks daunting. Her positive outlook, passion and preparation directly led to success in landing a job in the marketing department of HealthPartners. Kocon, a first-year student with a limited network landed a coveted position simply because she asked for other's help.

Kocon prepared for her success by making a "goals worksheet," outlining what needed to be done and what she might need assistance with. Success must be planned for. Kocon used the following methods to secure a job at her targeted company.

Social media and branding. Kocon understood the importance of networking online and following up with networking contacts offline. She noted: "The hardest part about social media is the time commitment." Kocon recognized that time management was important and used several methods to avoid being overwhelmed. A great rule of thumb job seekers can apply is 15/3. Spend 15 minutes a day on three social networks. In 45 minutes, you'll have new friends, an updated profile and if done correctly, dates to meet for in-person networking and interviews.

Ask for the "in." Kocon knew that HealthPartners had an opening in its marketing department. Instead of just sending a résumé over, she asked Melissa Aune, a HealthPartners recruiter who frequently uses Twitter, for a referral into the company. Kocon was able to market herself using social media and HealthPartners took notice.

Believe in what you're going for. Kocon did research on the company before hand and knew the culture, mission statement and identity. Michaela knew, because of her limited network and on-the-job experience she would truly need to look for partners in her career search. Kocon happily exclaimed, "I know that my due diligence with social media and networking was well worth it - that is the best feeling in the world."