Networking/Resume Advice?

[jfLip]

I'm a personal trainer at a private studio dealing with high-end clientele; my last day on the job is next week.  Three questions:

• 1) On my resume, I want to convey that I'm able to develop and make meaningful connections with entrepreneurs, CEO's, VP's, Drs., etc.  Would it be snobby to write something such as, "blah blah blah worked with entrepreneurs, CEOs, VPs of large-cap companies?"  Or is this a good thing?  I'm looking for work in the business/corporate world.

• 2) One of my clients is VP of one of the largest defense contractors and wants me to email my resume.  He said he'll help make it better, "talk to some people," and float my resume around.  Do I send some type of cover letter/references page?  We have a fairly laid-back "relationship" and he even gave me his personal # and offered to be a reference, but I still want to keep things as professional as possible.  How do I continue to network without asking for too much? i.e. Double check with him if it's ok that he's a reference

• 3) Currently don't have an active LinkedIn account.  Should I make one to attach as a signature in my email?

Thanks in advance for you're time and help.

[oldtoyota]

I think it's good to note that you are able to connect with (and are not intimidated by) exec-level people.

Personally, I do not send references until they are requested. I prefer to wait until someone requests them, and then I contact my references to know to expect a call.

The cover letter would be your note to the VP. I would be appreciative and keep it short.

[jfLip]

Thanks for your reply oldtoyota.  So I'll just attach my resume as a *.doc file in case he changes stuff.  Any suggestions on how to highlight my interpersonal skills with exec-level people?  So far I have, "Developed meaningful connections with entrepreneurs, CEOs, doctors, small business owners, and other high-end clientele"

It feels weird saying that because it sounds snobby and I prefer to be humble, but then I want to highlight my skills at the same time, lol.

[oldtoyota]

I understand. I also find it hard to promote myself yet am forcing myself to do it more.

I might remove "meaningful" since that is an opinion, and I'd remove "high-end" because that phrase is often used for objects as opposed to people.

Here are some ideas you can play around with:

--Interfaced with high-level executives (CEOs, VPs, business owners)
--Clientele included CEOs, VPs, business owners
--Coached high-level executives on ____ (only use "coached" if you think it's accurate)

Hope this helps!

[gooki]

Linked in isn't for your email signature.

First connect with all the people you've trained.

Then when you apply for a job, go looking at profiles of the companies employees on linked in. Preferably the hiring managers, and hr. Some light stalking does wonders for keeping you at the top of the list.