Are you wondering “How do I find the next job in this uncertain economy?” For the most part, a lot of us are in a similar boat. Look to yourself for some important clues. Here are 12 points to ignite your job search:
1. Ask yourself 4 questions:
- -What do you VALUE most at this point? Write your honest answers. Think about things like enjoy a challenge (or not), low work stress, having major accomplishments, being part of a team, working independently, etc.
- -Take stock of TALENTS. List them. Which of your talents and skills do you still enjoy using on the job?
- -Which of your INTERESTS still intrigue you? Or are you open to learning something brand new?
- -What are your PREFERENCES at this stage? (length of commute, necessary salary range, other important things to you)
Create a master list of all the things that make you unique; place the list in priority order.
EX: I value working with people, using my tech skills, supporting a team. I want to use my talents in organizing, being creative, and problem solving. I want to commute within 30 miles of home and work in a positive environment…
2. Now look for environments that can benefit from your value, skills and interests.
(EX: hospitals, universities, etc. Keep your options broad. Identify employer names within those environments. Ask friends, family, or colleagues. You’re now a job researcher “mining for information” about possibilities and career options.
3. Contact a few of the organizations above. Ask questions about options that may be available now or might open up in the near future.
4. Expand your network to include people at church, acquaintances in your social groups, neighbors, local merchants you see regularly, etc. You never know when leads may emerge.
5. You’re on a roll, stay focused. Surround yourself with people who will support you and your job search in a positive way. Don’t let negative folks get you down. Remember, misery loves company; stick with those who support you and your quest.”
6. Broaden your job search to include media and social networking. Search online, scan appropriate websites. There are many helpful career websites; some are listed at the end of this blog. If you’re looking for specific niches, send me an email and I may be able to suggest others more pertinent to your situation. Check out newspapers, stay current about goings on in local companies or wherever you’re conducting your job search.
7. Widen your electronic inquiries to include profiles on LinkedIn.com, Plaxo.com, Classmates.com, or Reunion.com. Although LinkedIn is mainly a networking tool, it also includes job listings, some of which are only solely posted on LinkedIn. Reconnecting with former friends, neighbors, or classmates can often lead to options that you’d otherwise not know about. Remember, we move closer to the things we think about. Think broadly and positively; and expand your momentum exponentially.
8. Check out local business journals such as Fairfield County Business Journal and New Haven Business Journal, and organizations such as Southwestern area Commerce ad Industry Association (SACIA). Contact your local Chamber of Commerce. Ask if they’ve heard from member companies who need people for short term employment or other special projects. Get your foot in the door to prove your talent and skills as a segue way to longer term employment.
9. Print media…Read articles of interest in your industry or profession; write to the author with an opinion. Ask if they have leads in your geographic area or if they have ideas on where to turn for advice or suggestions. People want to help if they know specifically what you’re looking for. That’s why you were asked the questions back in #1 above. Uncover at least 5 new leads every week. Turn your job search into a personal challenge or game.
10. Contact companies of interest directly; inquire about conducting an informational interview in the department of your choice. Ask for 15 minutes of time to come and ask a few questions. Let them know you’re a job researcher at this point, not a job seeker. You may learn more about the opportunity and say “This isn’t for me!” Or you may decide it is a great career fit and then ask to speak with someone affiliated with your interest area.
11. Learn salary ranges. If you don’t know where to begin, explore the website www.salary.com.
12. Update your resume or bio once you know what you want and can tailor your experience to that opportunity. Remember to create a short cover letter to send (or post electronically) with your resume. If you want to know more about informational interviewing, salary negotiation, interview do’s and don’ts, updating credentials or related questions, send me an email. I’ll clarify or provide more detail in a future blog. Next, we’ll focus on updating credentials and how the practice has changed in a nano second environment.
Helpful job search sites (teeny tip of the iceberg)
www.careerbuilder.com and www.monster.com.Two of the largest online career and job sites; hosts career leads, job search info, resume writing, interviewing tips, post questions to the experts, etc. viewed by over 20 million people monthly.
www.rileyguide.com Directions and details on how to use the web for job search
www.jobstar.org . Public library service offering career and job search info; database of available jobs
www.Yahoo.com …Job search tips in local areas, U.S. Government, resume guide, and more
www.snagajob.com Great for part time and hourly positions; enter your zip code or commutable range and options will pop up on screen.
www.vault.com … Lists over 3000 individual companies; get knowledgeable about specific organizations and qualifications they seek.
www.quintessentialcareers.com…Job search, career and college advice, career toolkit, job leads, resume service, cover letters, E-zine, and book references.
www.Craigslist.com…An online classified with a plethora of community job leads
www.simplyhired.com, Plug in your zip code and job search by multiple criteria
www.theladders.com Job postings $100K and above; free limited access; fee based for more in-depth; check out options by industry and location…
www.Jobfox.com, Free and fee based; create a profile, see job options matched to you; get introduced to potential employers
www.Hound.com, View available jobs by category or by city
www.jobster.com Post resume, promote your skills, and be contacted by potential employers
www.ctjobs.com Connecticut Media Group’s employment site
