In a recent episode of the CareerNerds Podcast, hosted by Tom Kent, Tad McIntosh, Founder and President of HumCap, shared his journey from military service to his civilian career becoming a business leader in HR outsourcing and recruiting. From identifying how to learn new skills to leveraging the power of networking – Tad shares his advice on how to advance in your career whether you’re looking for a career pivot, transitioning from the military, or simply looking to level up your existing career.

 

Tad’s military career began as an Infantry Officer, but a pivotal transition into recruiting command set the stage for his future success. Reflecting on his military experience, Tad noted, “Recruiting in the military was about sharing an experience I had lived, whereas civilian recruiting required learning new skills and understanding diverse industries.” This adaptability and willingness to learn were crucial as he moved into the tech and executive search sectors. When looking to change careers, it’s important to identify where there may be gaps between where you are, and where you’d like to be. Lean into the skills needed to bridge that gap and how you could expound upon what you’ve learned to help your transition.

A key takeaway from the podcast is the importance of networking. Tad emphasized, “Networking is an indispensable tool and activity. It’s not quite like oxygen, but it’s pretty close.”

For those seeking career growth, it’s paramount to have a strategic networking plan and to be open to learning from every interaction. Networking is not just about exchanging business cards or connecting on LinkedIn; it’s a strategic approach to building relationships that can significantly impact your career trajectory. “If you’re uncomfortable, get over it. You need to get comfortable and have fun doing it,” Tad suggests, highlighting the value of building genuine connections. A well-thought-out networking plan involves identifying key individuals in your industry or desired field who can provide valuable insights, mentorship, or opportunities. This plan should include:

  1. Research and Identify Key Contacts: Start by researching industry leaders, potential mentors, and peers who are influential in your field. Tad suggests using platforms like LinkedIn to find these individuals and learn about their career paths and contributions.
  2. Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve through networking. Are you looking for a job, seeking mentorship, or hoping to learn more about a specific industry? Having clear goals will guide your interactions and help those you meet know how to best engage with you.
  3. Engage Authentically: Tad highlights the importance of genuine engagement. This means reaching out with a personalized message, showing interest in the other person’s work, and offering value in return. Authentic connections are more likely to lead to meaningful relationships.
  4. Follow Up and Maintain Relationships: Networking is not a one-time activity. Tad advises regularly following up with your contacts, sharing relevant information, and staying in touch. People are busy – persistent yet polite follow ups are key to growing engagement with those you hope to network with. This helps in maintaining the relationship and keeping you on their radar for potential opportunities.

By implementing a strategic networking plan, individuals seeking a new career can open doors to opportunities that might not be advertised. Networking can lead to job referrals, insider information about industry trends, and even collaborations that can enhance your professional growth. Tad’s approach underscores that networking is an ongoing process that, when done consistently and strategically, can be a powerful tool in advancing one’s career.

For a deeper dive into Tad’s experiences and advice, listen to the full podcast episode. Check out the full recording here: Listen to the Podcast

By focusing on networking, adaptability, and strategic planning, Tad McIntosh’s insights are invaluable for anyone looking to thrive in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re a business leader or a candidate seeking new opportunities, these lessons can guide your journey.

Interested in connecting with Tad or HumCap more? Let us know how we can help by contacting us here.