Of Course, They're Picking Your Brain - So, What to Do?

 In public relations, ranging from looking for a job or pitching to a prospect, there was an old saying: Sure, provide ideas. That's necessary to demonstrate everything from that you know your stuff to being innovative. But, don't give away the store. Along the way we learned how to steer the conversation from the prospect's determination to pick our brains to moving the needle to their hiring us.

Currently in the iffy economy with fewer good jobs that's not so easy. Typical is this post on Reddit - Public Relations:

 " ... in my third interview ... and the company just asked me to develop a 6-month integrated strategy covering executive thought leadership, media relations, and social presence. This isn’t a hypothetical case study — they want a real, detailed plan with slides, a sample editorial calendar, content concepts, and media strategy. It feels like the kind of work a team would spend weeks on."

Of course, the feedback on this professional anonymous platform sizes the whole enchilada as a blatant case of obtaining free consulting. It may or may not even be hiring.

The commonsense advice is to smoothly communicate the excitement about the opportunity but provide another option for demonstrating your ability. One suggestion is to even frame it as a consulting assignment and indicate your fee.

But commonsense isn't typical in the job market for professional services such as public relations. Many in a panic about "never working again" might in a fit of magical thinking comply. Once they do, there might even be more hoops to jump. 

So, what to do?

More of the clients for my intuitive coaching/tarot readings are opting out of the hunt for jobs. They are hanging out a shingle, most structured as solopreneurs. 

Not that that is easy. But you have the flexibility to make your own terms and conditions of how you'll earn your living. The most successful strategy is to identify what businesses and/or people need/want. Then fill that gap. Do that better, more affordably and faster than others who will eventually enter that space. 

While you're building the business or during slow times you can pick up gig work unrelated to your career path. When I was establishing myself as an influencer (that lasted eight years) I earned income as a security guard in a big box and operating the front desk at a hotel. The former gave me medical coverage.

Thrown off your game, maybe the first time since you started working? You made all the right moves and then the world moved in another direction.

Intuitive Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, reskilling and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry. Zero risk.