Job Search -- Back to Basics

Job Search -- Back to Basics
by WB
1) Look Inside Before Looking Outside: Job hunting is not simply about browsing job listings, sending out job applications and hoping that someone will call you for an interview. Many job seekers make the mistake of adopting a passive attitude towards their job search. The first thing to do when looking for a job is to be "ready" in your mind. If someone asks you "what do you want" and you answer "I want a job," that is not enough. You have to know what you want, in what industry, field, location, etc. Although some of you may be satisfied just to be employed, that is not sufficient. Even if you end up finding a job, you may soon find yourself dissatisfied with your circumstances. Again, the first step in any job search is to do an introspection and figure out for yourself what you are looking for. 2) Know What You Want and Focus: Once you know what you want, work towards reaching your goal. Think of ways you can create leads for yourself. Network, stay up to date with news in your industry, browse through job listings, attend career fairs, etc. There are lots of things you can do to put the odds on your side. Looking for a job is not a matter of luck. It's about determination, self-confidence, and hard work. 3) Send Out Targeted Applications: Sending out targeted applications is at the core of an effective job search. Many people think that sending out as many job applications as possible will increase their odds of being hired. That is a misconception. You don't need 10 jobs. You only need one. Furthermore, you can send out as many applications as you want, but if your application never makes it in the "good" pile, that will not advance your cause. A job application is your introduction to your potential employer. When you introduce yourself in person, you want to put your best foot forward. The same idea applies when you look for a job. Make an impression, differentiate yourself so that the person reading your application will want to give you a chance. That's all you are asking for at this preliminary stage. 4) You Only Have One Chance at Making a Good First Impression: Having a professionally written resume and cover letter can make all the difference. We cannot all be good writers. Let's face it. Also, there is a difference between being a good writer and being a good resume writer. Furthermore, there is a difference between writing one's own resume and having someone else write one's resume. Why do you think lawyers never or rarely argue cases in which they are involved? Because they need someone who is detached from the case to look at things objectively. When you hire a resume writer, don't look at it as a cost. Look at it as an investment. 5) Preparation Is a Sign of How Much You Want a Position: If you really want a job, you will work for it. If you are lazy or come up with excuses, something is bothering you in your subconscious. Think it through. If you are not willing to put in the effort, don't bother. 6) The Final Touch Is Often What Makes the Difference: The last 10% effort is often what makes the difference between a superior application and an average or poor one. That last 10% can represent many things such as taking the time to proofread your resume, putting the extra effort to try to make an impression in your cover letter, or writing a thoughtful thank you note after an interview.

by WB

1) Look Inside Before Looking Outside: Job hunting is not simply about browsing job listings, sending out job applications and hoping that someone will call you for an interview. Many job seekers make the mistake of adopting a passive attitude towards their job search. The first thing to do when looking for a job is to be "ready" in your mind. If someone asks you "what do you want" and you answer "I want a job," that is not enough. You have to know what you want, in what industry, field, location, etc. Although some of you may be satisfied just to be employed, that is not sufficient. Even if you end up finding a job, you may soon find yourself dissatisfied with your circumstances. Again, the first step in any job search is to do an introspection and figure out for yourself what you are looking for.

2) Know What You Want and Focus: Once you know what you want, work towards reaching your goal. Think of ways you can create leads for yourself. Network, stay up to date with news in your industry, browse through job listings, attend career fairs, etc. There are lots of things you can do to put the odds on your side. Looking for a job is not a matter of luck. It's about determination, self-confidence, and hard work.

3) Send Out Targeted Applications: Sending out targeted applications is at the core of an effective job search. Many people think that sending out as many job applications as possible will increase their odds of being hired. That is a misconception. You don't need 10 jobs. You only need one. Furthermore, you can send out as many applications as you want, but if your application never makes it in the "good" pile, that will not advance your cause. A job application is your introduction to your potential employer. When you introduce yourself in person, you want to put your best foot forward. The same idea applies when you look for a job. Make an impression, differentiate yourself so that the person reading your application will want to give you a chance. That's all you are asking for at this preliminary stage.

4) You Only Have One Chance at Making a Good First Impression: Having a professionally written resume and cover letter can make all the difference. We cannot all be good writers. Let's face it. Also, there is a difference between being a good writer and being a good resume writer. Furthermore, there is a difference between writing one's own resume and having someone else write one's resume. Why do you think lawyers never or rarely argue cases in which they are involved? Because they need someone who is detached from the case to look at things objectively. When you hire a resume writer, don't look at it as a cost. Look at it as an investment.

5) Preparation Is a Sign of How Much You Want a Position: If you really want a job, you will work for it. If you are lazy or come up with excuses, something is bothering you in your subconscious. Think it through. If you are not willing to put in the effort, don't bother.

6) The Final Touch Is Often What Makes the Difference: The last 10% effort is often what makes the difference between a superior application and an average or poor one. That last 10% can represent many things such as taking the time to proofread your resume, putting the extra effort to try to make an impression in your cover letter, or writing a thoughtful thank you note after an interview.