Connection Lost
In my Russian politics class - of all places - my professor likes to go on tangents (which he somehow relates back to the Soviet Union...eventually). One of which was about finding a job, but not for talent he says, for connections. He is a professor at a top university, supposedly having worked for the CIA, and he says that 4 of the 5 career jobs he's ever had, have been through connections (including the one he has now). And it got me thinking... is that really all there is? I have spent countless hours at the computer searching websites and search engines alike for a summer internship, nay, a summer job! Anything to make money over the summer. Last summer both of my internships (one paid, one not) were irrefutably through connections. This summer, I tried out another connection but it has fallen through despite my consistent efforts. The only option I am finding now though my desperation is working as an assistant to my own father as the Chairman of a non-profit. Is there hope for a decent, interesting job where I can deserve my position?
Well it sounds like you're using your connection to nonprofit work. And you can leverage that connection and job (once you get inside) to find out about other things that are happening where you can also work. Get involved in being on the phone tree so that you can actually talk to people. Learn how to do the fund raising so you can also get involved in learning new names and connections, as well as other companies. Get involved in doing the mailers so that you're able to see more names and get more ideas.
Use your in-house (literal) mentor. Talk with your dad about ways to contact some of these people and companies. Let him know that you don't want it to look as though you're using your position at the nonprofit, nor your relationship to him, in order to make the contacts and that you'd really appreciate his guidance on how to approach these folks. Also ask him (not at the same sitting) about the culture of these corporations and the personalities of the people.
Karen--
The act/art of mingling/networking is super important in landing the job. Work experience is also very important...no matter where that experience comes from...working for your dad is a great start.
I agree with Yvonne..fundraising is a great skill. It actually will teach you a lot about the job search process. Instead of asking for a job, you are asking for money. You must "connect" with people and act professionally for the best results, and you are certain to run into rejection. Learning to deal with the let down and not let it get to you also will serve you well.
Jengyee