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List at least two from every past job.

You already know that I consider former supervisors a precious lifetime interviewgetting necessity (Do 17).

Don’t tell me about how they didn’t know what they were doing. I’ll tell you that’s the definition! I don’t even care if you were fired.

Former supervisors know of current openings, instant interviewing opportunities, and also qualify for bounties if you’re hired.

You may be surprised at the reaction when you call them too. In fact, he might ask you to interview for his department. It happens often.

Former Co-workers

List them too. There should be many. Preferably ones with connections and ones you liked (in that order).

There’s a unique opportunity with former co-workers that inactive interviewers overlook.

It’s the big challenge:

I challenge you to get me as many referrals to interviews as I get for you.

Then when you meet (I discuss that conversation shortly), show her a copy of Instant Interviews. That’s the only way she’ll be able to compete.

Other Acquaintances

List anyone else you know, from former classmates to the person who runs a local restaurant. Give them each 20 or so of your callback cards (Do 14).

If possible, meet in person. It’s too easy for these otherwise doing-something-else people to procrastinate and forget. The probability of them replying to phone messages, e-mails, or letters is low. The probability of them picking up the phone is high—so be persistent. One call every other day usually gets them within a week.

So if local, arrange to meet informally over coffee or lunch. Ideally while you’re out interviewing anyway (Do 1). Bring an extra copy of your resume and at least 20 of your callback cards to the meeting.

Here’s a former co-worker conversation so you can feel the rhythm.

Ann: How have you been?

You: Doing well! I’m excited about the interviews I’ve been getting and want to do more.

Ann: But I thought you loved working for the dress manufacturer. Weren’t you doing inventory control or something?

You: Yes. It’s been fine, but there’s no way I can use my training in management there. I’m a people person and I deal with things all day long.

Ann: So you want me to help you?

You: That’s half of what I want.

Ann: What’s the other half?

You: I want to help you too. I’ve been reading this new book called Instant Interviews and it shows you how to explode your ability to get them. Here’s my copy.

Ann (looking at the book): Now that you mention it, I’m getting tired of that 45-mile commute to work every day. I tried to carpool, then to work as a virtual employee, but it just didn’t work out.

You: I just interviewed this morning for three jobs.

Ann: What? You had three employers call you?

You: Not at all. I just walked right in working from this little rulebook and got interviewed!

Ann: I’m in.

You: No, you’re instant!

Ann: How do we get started?

You: Do you know anyone who’s looking for someone with my management training?

Ann: Let’s see—Hank, the new guy I’m dating, is desperate to fill a supervisor position right now. I’m not sure what it’s about, but I know they’re looking for people where he works.

You: Why don’t we call him right now?

Ann: Okay, I’ll use my cell phone.

You: Here’s my resume. Take a look at my background so you’ll be able to discuss it.

That’s how you dig deep and wide into experience and a new career goal. When she calls Hank to tell him you’ll be contacting him (or when he calls her to ask about you), chances are very good that she’ll be repeating your words.

Reacquainting is a great way to do interviewing!

Do 47: Obtaining Publicity about Instant Availability

Publicity equals exposure equals interviews!

At no expense of time or money.

Are you part of a neighborhood watch group? Are you directing a school function? Did you recently receive an award? It’s all publicity material, and it’s all good.

You can frequently arrange to be interviewed by just calling the media. You can also write