Unlocking Career Opportunities: Alumnus Bill Fitzgerald (MSOD ‘92) Shares Expert Tips in Latest Book How to Find a New Job Without Looking
Bill Fitzgerald (MSOD ‘92), an executive search and recruiting professional with over
18 years of experience, co-founded FitzDrake Search, Inc. after working as an HR Executive
and Organizational Development practitioner. In his latest book, "How to Find a New
Job Without Looking," he highlights the importance of networking and relationship-building
for career success, emphasizing the power of offering assistance and maintaining strong
connections.
Read Bill’s Interview:
1. What industry are you in and why did you choose that industry?
I have been in the executive search and recruiting industry for over 18 years. Before that, I was an HR Executive and Organizational Development practitioner.
I co-founded FitzDrake Search, Inc. an executive search and recruiting business, after experiencing the entrepreneurial world at AOL. Finding and hiring exceptional talent was invigorating and I could see the immediate impact on the business and organization. I was able to see an immediate outcome from my work and influence change and I continue to find that satisfying.
2. Share your recent professional success and what made it successful.
I recently launched a new book, “How to Find a New Job Without Looking,” (now available on Amazon) because I have seen how keeping in touch with your closest personal and professional contacts can lead to greater career satisfaction, career success, and income potential. Bill introduces My Vital Few as a lifestyle that changes the way we think about networking. So much of social media is about collecting friends, connections, followers, and likes. Networking is treated like a transaction at a fast-food restaurant. We forget that relationships are the currency that leads to success. We also lose sight of what makes networking and relationship-building most effective - telling versus asking.
It’s important to remember that 80% of your networking needs to be about telling, providing updates, and most importantly, offering assistance, rather than asking for help. That’s why My View Few and networking as a lifestyle make sense. The more you offer, the more you will receive in return, and I have seen that in my own life. Whether you are a new professional or later in your career, it is important to embrace My Vital Few. This way of operating can change the trajectory of your career.
3. What is one thing that you learned from your experience at Graziadio that has influenced your life?
Peter Block was an adjunct professor in the MSOD program, and he said something that caused me to reshape my future choices. I will paraphrase, but Peter said, if you want control, don’t be in a staff role. At that moment, I realized I wanted to be the leader in charge. Not someone trying to influence a leader’s behavior.
4. What advice do you have for those looking to build a similar career path or transition into your function or industry?
We are in a service business, so it is important to operate like you are in the office next door. Focus on customer service and develop an eye for talent.
5. What is your favorite quote?
Who doesn’t love Ted Lasso!
“I shouldn’t bring an umbrella to a brainstorm.”
This is important when you are tapping into the creative side of your brain.
It’s easy for your judgmental side to kick in and this inhibits creativity. As an entrepreneur, I like to think about possibilities and ask myself “What If.”
6. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to exercise, listen to live music, read and spend time with family and friends over a very hoppy craft brew.