Lean Connections

I received an e-mail today, one of a series over the last few months, from one of my contacts on LinkedIn.  It got me to thinking about Chris’ well-planned and targeted approach to finding a new employer. 

It struck me that he was absolutely using the PDCA methodology in his job hunt: Planning for a high-potential career-fit target audience; Doing the work of contacting referral sources that might open some doors for him; Checking, validating what was working and what was not; Adjusting his process based on that feedback – and then doing it all over again. 

Here’s what his cover letter looked like.  Notice the relevant lead-in sentences. Notice his offer of help to me towards the end. And notice the clear and concise target list of companies he’d like to work for. 

Dear Adam,

Hope this update finds you in good health!  Now that the summer is coming to an end, I look forward to the coming fall with some faith that we will all be successful in our ventures.  I am staying busy networking and searching for my next great career opportunity!  Furthermore, I am pursuing a six sigma black belt (quality) certification and Toastmasters recognition.  I wanted to update you on my career search / target companies and ask for any recommendations you may have based upon my skill set.  My best leads and help have come through networking.  For your convenience, my marketing profile as well as target companies are listed below.  My LinkedIn profile is available by clicking on the person hiking above.  As always, please let me know if I can be of assistance to you. 
 

Thank you for your ongoing support.  Please have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend!

Sincerely,

Chris
——————-
Marketing Profile

A Global Operations and Continuous Improvement professional with expertise in varied manufacturing environments.  I am experienced in implementing quality and continuous improvement efforts leading to cost reductions and productivity improvements.  
 Target Companies

·         Cleveland Clinic	·         PolyOne
·         University Hospitals	·         Lubrizol
·         PNC Bank	·         Rockwell Automation
·         United States Postal Service	·         Eaton
·         Bendix	·         Goodrich Aerospace
·         Crane Aerospace	·         Alcoa
·         Ford Motor Company	·         ArcelorMittal
·         Parker Hannifin	·         MTD Products
·         Swagelok	·         Dealer Tire
·         Invacare	·         Aleris
·         Sherman Williams	·         Honeywell

 

This guy gets it!  Chris, good luck in your search. I may have a name or two for you.

Adam Zak

Opportunity Introduction   (go here to download PDF)

We’re looking for an experienced Six Sigma leader with broad business acumen, global perspective and experience, and the ability to drive, facilitate and sustain change in a fast-paced, highly entrepreneurial environment.  

The selected individual will become our client’s Director, Global Six Sigma, and leverage her or his outstanding leadership, communications and technical skills to create significant and lasting impact and value at all levels of this organization.  

And yes, it’s going to take an ambitious, determined and committed “A-player” to reap the rewards of success in this demanding role.  But what business transformation worthy of that designation wouldn’t be a major problem-solving opportunity, and a challenge of such caliber that it rigorously tests the mettle of even the best Six Sigma pros in today’s competitive manufacturing world? 

Could you be up to this challenge?     (go here to download PDF position description)

Adam Zak