Creating Your Own Green Job
If you’re not finding the great environmental job you've been hoping to get, it’s time to make it happen on your own. There are no guarantees that you'll charm a specific company into hiring you, but if you present an exciting proposal paired with the right credentials it just might work.
Three things you must have for this pursuit are confidence, experience and persistence. Know your stuff, be organized and walk into every interview with pride about what you're trying to accomplish.
When job offers are low, step up and create a green job proposal that employers will want to hear.
- Brainstorm – First, allow yourself to brainstorm with paper and pen about your career ideas and passions. Even if you're already clear about what you want, write it all down. The act of writing (not typing, writing) it out helps you find clarity. Brainstorming is also great for getting inspired.
- Research – What companies do what you'd love to do? Research the companies you want to approach with your job proposal. Do they already have employees who provide this kind of support? If yes, find out all the requirements and be sure you meet them. Find out the contact names for those in charge. For example, if you want to implement a recycling initiative for a major corporation, research the names of those who might already be heading similar endeavors in those offices.
- Write a Job Proposal – This is basically a cover letter and detailed resume regarding the job you hope to secure. There are many job proposal how-to articles online for guidance. Be clear and concise. Target each proposal for a specific company. If you’re not sure of your grammar skills, have someone with those skills edit the proposal. A polished job proposal is so important. You won’t be considered a professional if your documents are incorrect or sloppy.
Your cover letter explains why you think this individual and this company are right for the job you want to do. Your job proposal illustrates why you're the right person to do it.
- Mail or Email the Job Proposal – Send the cover letter and proposal to the contacts you're targeting. Follow up with a phone call within 24 hours of the envelope or email's arrival. Ask if the proposal was received and request a phone conversation with the person who received it. You'll likely end up leaving a message with an assistant, but don't stop respectfully following up every week until you get an interview or a "No thanks."
- Take the Interview – Here's hoping you get offered an interview! If so, bring several copies of your proposal and confidently chat about your goals. Remember to research these companies as much as possible before you step inside those doors. Knowing what they need is your first step to convincing them they need it.
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