This all goes back to the age old question: Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road? To get to the other side (of course).
The answer should have footnote added: “it’s just that some chicken’s do it better than others”.
The same goes in a career search. Think about your last job search, or maybe you are currently involved in a new search, or maybe you know someone who is actively looking, or re you seeking a career after college? Whatever the case, how is the search progressing? How are you differentiating themselves from the competition?
Are you looking hard but only searching on the job boards and are not seeing much of anything? Have you posted your resume but are only receiving calls and emails from “work at home” or insurance or financial positions?
This kind of talk calls for an intervention!
How are you able to maximize your search time and value if you are doing the bare minimum? This is the time to create a strategy which will allow you to better target and focus on key positions. Some ideas to consider and build upon:
- Take a break from the job boards. You need to get somewhere that more people know you and are willing to talk with you outside of the job application blackhole. I don’t care how strong of a resume you have, going into a pool of candidates is not your best avenue.
- Hit Google and Bing. Take a few days to conduct research on your targeted industry(industries) and targeted position(s) within that industry(industries). This will allow you to focus more on what you want to do and less on let me just get anything.
- Find the “trusted” contacts in your network. Take some time to examine your network to see who you know in that industry or in a similar position to what you are targeting. Reach out to them, take them to lunch, tell your story and ask for their story. Get the insight on how to position yourself for this type of career.
- Get on social media. Share your story with others. Get on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and whatever else will help you target positions. Connect with others. Gain their insight. Share your insight. Let them know you are looking but… DON’T BE PUSHY!
- Make cold calls and introduction emails. You need to put yourself out there and that means connecting with others. Use these calls not to focus on YOU but to learn from others. Ask questions, almost interview them to understand their career path and see what helpful tips you may learn from others in positions you are targeting.
Remember, the goal isn’t to knock down doors but instead to open doors. Being pushy or rude will get you absolutely nowhere. When you are nothing but polite, nice and greatly appreciative… you will get much further along your path.
Whomever you connect with in these activities, please Please PLEASE remember to send a thank you note (email) for their time and insight.
Now get your plan into place and make it happen!
