by Alesia Benedict, CPRW, JCTC
Observing others in the job search process may make it seem as though everyone else has all the luck in making the right contacts and easily landing a coveted position. Upon closer inspection, you can just as readily identify many small steps that may help you become one of the elite landing plum positions in a competitive market. Review the steps below to adopt approaches to carry your job search beyond mere chance and show employers you are the perfect fit!
Clearly Communicate Your Strengths.
Paint a picture of your talents for the employer. How do you fit into the team? What talents do you bring to critical projects? Make a clear connection between your previous accomplishments and potential contributions for the prospective employer and they will understand why you are clearly the best candidate.
Be Assertive and Confident.
Approach companies of interest and inquire regarding openings even if none are listed. Everyone is aware of the “hidden job market” online, however long before the Internet that same market existed in the minds of hiring managers and CEOs. Letting your interest in a company drive your efforts by initiating contact with key personnel will set you apart from the large pool of candidates.
Keep Good Records.
You certainly don’t want to embarrass yourself by following up with the same person more than once. This organizational strategy also helps you remember important names and keep track of any personnel movement within and across organizations. In addition to helping with the current job search, think of each of these individuals as part of your network over the long haul.
Outline Your Job Search Plan.
The spreadsheet of contacts, conversations, and resumes submitted will provide one part of the record while new prospects can make up a separate portion of your plan outlining goals. By listing each aspect of your plan, not only will you create a comprehensive record of your job search, but you will also feel more in control of the endless string of tasks associated with the typical search. Making the search feel more manageable can help you monitor your stress and energy levels throughout the process.
Know Your Limitations.
Seek professional assistance for parts of the job search that are not strengths for you. It may seem that you cannot afford to spend the money right now, but perhaps you cannot afford not to do so. If the job search has become so daunting or has drained your resources to such a degree that you feel devoid of ideas about the next step, then you definitely need to seek professionals to help. Feeling depleted of energy and ideas is a clear indication that you need a fresh perspective to help you create momentum for yourself in the search process.
Re-package Your Skills.
Researching industries similar to your experience or those with comparable positions may help you expand your targeted job search in a productive way. You maintain the efficiency of targeting while identifying additional opportunities for yourself with a little creative thinking. Certain skills transfer across industries, such as management, marketing, and sales. Perhaps you have a solid track record in these basic areas or can describe your contributions to an employee morale campaign as part of your personnel management skills.
As you can see, the road to success is often paved with small steps. By building your confidence with clear goals, a strong organizational system, and key support, you can chart your own path to success. The solid image potential employers see will help you land that job!