10 Steps to Turn Your Job Search Into a Job

By Brad - Sunday 6 Jul 11:02 am

Job searchers can get stuck searching for months with no results. Finding a job takes more than just posting your resume. Follow ten steps to turn your job search into a job.

• 1. Focus your job search. Don’t submit as many applications as possible. Apply for jobs if you meet the stated qualifications and are truly interested.

• 2. Know what you are looking for. The better you know your goals, the more likely you are to choose accurate keywords and focus your job search.

• 3. Present a professional package. Your cover letter and resume should be clear and concise. Have someone else edit for spelling, typos and inappropriate language. Avoid gimmicks, bright colors and flashy designs.

• 4. Be prepared for responses. You want callbacks so provide accurate and professional contact information. This means no funny voicemail messages and no caller tunes. Choose a standard ring and professional message for the duration of your job search.

• 5. Get out of your comfort zone and network. There is truth to the statement it’s not what you know but who you know. Employers hire people they know and like. Join professional or service organizations in your area to show dedication to your field and get your face in front of potential employers.

• 6. Prepare for the interview. Be prompt and dress professionally. Preparation also includes doing some research about the company. Show them you are interested in them and they will be interested in you.

• 7. Sell your strengths. Potential employers won’t know what you have to offer unless you are able to communicate your strengths to them.

• 8. Take risks. This doesn’t mean applying for a dream job you have no qualifications for. Stay informed with what’s up and coming in your industry and look to the smaller companies or start-ups for opportunities.

• 9. Follow-up. If you haven’t heard back, let them know you are still interested with a follow-up card or email. Consider a thank you after an interview. Don’t be a pest but remind employers you are out there.

• 10. Hold out for a good match. Don’t accept the first offer if it isn’t the right offer. When times are tough and competition is fierce sometimes you have to take a near fit and that is okay. Just be aware that you are compromising your job search and remain open to finding the perfect fit in the future.

Posted in: Job Search

5 Proven Job Search Methods

By Brad - Thursday 5 Jun 6:24 pm

Beginning a job search can be overwhelming whether a person has been recently laid off or is considering options for a growth opportunity. Keep a few simple options in mind and your search will prove successful.

1. Develop an organized system. If you don’t take your job search seriously why would anyone else. Searching for a job is similar to having a job. Set up a schedule for searching, posting resumes, networking and making follow-ups. Make your search a professional priority is taking the first step.

2. Go to the source. If you are looking for a specific position in an industry do not limit yourself to large and generic job search sites. Head directly to the employers you are interested in and apply via their site or human resources department. Do not limit yourself to only the well known employers in your field either; try small and mid-size companies as well.

3. Work with a staffing firm that services your industry. If you’ve sent your resume to the companies you are interested in or if you’ve searched several sites and found no openings, you may need professional help for your job search. Consider a headhunter or staffing service that specializes in your industry. These services have direct and up-to-date contact with potential employers. They will also review your resume and provide insider information about what potential employers are looking for.

4. Network at industry events and through professional organization websites and forums. No matter how old-fashioned you think networking is or how you think the internet has improved job searching, there is little substitute for getting out and making your self known to potential employers.

5. Send cover letters and resumes to a specific person not “to whom it may concern” or to the “hiring manager”. Employers and human resources departments receive resumes and applications by the hundreds. You will be just another number added to the pile or scanned then disposed of unless what you offer stands out. The first step in getting noticed is to get your information to the right party then wow them.

Follow these five simple steps and your job search will begin the journey to a new job in the right direction. Just remember to be consistent and keep following up, you will get the job that is right for you.

Posted in: Job Search