[via: Colorado Technical University]

After being in the industry for a couple months, I have used this ‘technique’ quite often already. When I was interning at the San Diego State University Entrepreneurial Management Center, my supervisor mentored me very well. One thing I really appreciated was the tip he gave me over lunch one day.

“Get to know people” he said.

He suggested that you contact directors, ceos, thought leaders and just ask them out for a cup of coffee or tea or even lunch. Why?

It is all about networking right? It’s the people you know. I always remember hearing this when I was growing up. So if the message isn’t clear by now…GET TO KNOW PEOPLE!

Now I never said it would be easy, but the payoff is well worth it. Often times the person might blow you off (which is understandable). They are busy, they actually have work to do! Don’t worry, keep trying. These kinds of people will notice that you are going the extra distance and REALLY want to meet them. Don’t be annoying, but be persistent and if you have to meet them at 6:30am…do it.

I could go on and on as to why you should set one up.. but I’d rather you just try it out and see for yourself. Be yourself with no hidden agenda except to chat with them on topics that are relevant to their industry and the work that you do. Above all, have fun and go out and meet people!

Trust me, you’ll do fine.

On April 6th, 2010 I set forth on a journey. I was unemployed, had a lot on my mind, and a dream. I told myself…I WILL get a job at an advertising / marketing company here in San Diego.

A couple weeks ago, I got several offers from a couple San Diego Advertising Agencies. I can now say that I achieved my goal and got a job a about 2 weeks before my deadline.

I shall now embark on another journey of turning 24 tomorrow. I will set another goal for myself..and a deadline. I invite you to follow my journeys!

Coming Soon…

How I Got A Job In Advertising In Less Than A Month

Many of you do not know me, have never met me, and know nothing about me. Should you stumble on this blog, while searching for Paris, the boxing club, or the ramblings of a mid 20-year-old male, I most certainly have to thank you for actually clicking this link.

Well, let me introduce myself. My name is Ryan. I’m a struggling artist that writes blog posts at 11:20pm at night because he is stressing about the next day. Let me tell you it is not always like this…but something is on my mind.

Recently a couple companies have posted up career applications for the EXACT job I want. No, I don’t want to be a male model, a multi-million dollar artist, or a famous celebrity. I just want to be a graphic / web designer. That’s it. I want to be able to join a company family and change the industry.

So the search begins. Now the word that everyone loathes. JOB HUNTING.

The One Thing I Fear Most…Right Now

Lions, Tigers, and Bears…Oh My! No.. it’s not some fairytale. I hate to say it, but my current fear is that no one will give me a chance. I feel my website is strong (in fact I’m featured on several CSS/XHTML websites…and I recently won an award for my website www.RyanLum.com), however my portfolio doesn’t represent the work I can do.

I’m just starting out. I tried to find clients through craigslist, referrals, etc.; however, I’m always faced with clients who don’t have a lot to spend (we’ve all heard this before,huh?). I try to design a website withing their price range, but quite frankly, my client list is, well, just starting off. I only have a couple designs I can really show on my website…and I still feel its not the full potential for what I can do.

I also realize there is a lot I can learn. I’m a quick learner, and I’d love to work at an advertising agency so that I can improve as well as make a difference.
I’ve been inspired by the movie Julie and Julia. To prove to myself that I can do it, I will set a deadline.

Follow me in my journey to get a job at an advertising agency by my birthday May 29th.

I hope I can will do it.

A lot of hard work, yes. A lot of tireless nights, yes again. A sane person…probably not.