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
Joyce-
Is there a better way to figure salary standards in a company other than salary.com? I have found the averages to obe inflated. I told one company that I felt the job was worth xxxxx and the interviewer said that was unrealistic as that was more than she made as a middle manager. I felt very uncomfortable for the rest of the interview and left thinking I blew that one. Until that point we were clicking personality-wise. BTW, no second interview, no job.
Thanks, Sue
Comment by Sue Sanchez — July 27th, 2009 @ 12:54 pm
Sue,
Is this a new interview or are you already “on the job” inside a company and looking at options? If you’re on the inside, it’s easier to find more about salary ranges and perks since you probably have a few contacts and already have an idea of salary ranges. I’ll assume that you’re interviewing with a new company where you’re coming in brand new.
When you say “I told one company I felt the job was worth X,” there is mistake #1. One of the cardinal negotiating rules is to put off discussing salary until there is serious interest in you and a job offer has been made.
In essence, you set yourself up for the interviewer’s comment about being unrealistic. Remember, we’re working post Bernie Madoff, Enron, and thousands of individuals have taken pay cuts and are being laid off.
Employers are sensitive to and concerned about greed.
Start with these guidelines regarding salary:
1. Once you know the company name, do your homework. Find out entry level salaries in the industry (vault.com, hoovers.com, salaryexpert.com) or print media like National Business Employment Weekly which lists job openings around the country with attached salaries.
2. When you’re on the interview, focus your interest and enthusiasm solely on the job you’re applying for. Ask questions, be enthusiastic about the work you’d be doing.
3. Once the job offer is made, go to the higher end of the range (if you already bring significant value/skill to the job).
4. In the interview, listen for other skills, talents they need. If you possess them, discuss combining skill sets and bringing more value to the job. As that is communicated and proven, salary goes up. Sometimes there’s a “proving period” after which salary is reviewed and an increase given after a few weeks or months on the job. Good luck. Joyce
Comment by Joyce — July 27th, 2009 @ 5:53 pm
I have a condition that puts many people in a wheelchair yet I don’t “collect”, I produce. I work at home because my physical limitations offer few choices. I can walk but use a cane. I’m writing this because I’ll be reading your blog to get new ideas on job opportunities and strategies.
Comment by Local Eyes — August 3rd, 2009 @ 8:32 am
Local Eyes – Good for you to take the time to inquire about new ideas on job opportunities. Overcoming inertia is the first major hurdle and it appears you’ve conquered that obstacle. As you said, you produce, you don’t collect. Now, ask yourself a key question. “Regardless of your mobility and physical challenges, What are your talents? What are you able to do that appeals to you? How would you describe your skills, interests, preferences, values?”
Once you have a clear idea the value that you offer the workplace, then focus on specific industries and their needs. You never know how an organization might be able to use your talents. Create a list of industries (or specific organizations)that interest you. Place them in priority order and investigate opportunities. I wish you well.
Comment by Joyce — August 5th, 2009 @ 10:21 pm
Hey, Joyce
Thanks for your tips – I have been practicing my interviewing skills.
My husband is videotaping me while a friend is ‘interviewing’ me. Wow, what an eye-opener – I’d recommend this to others. I thought I knew how to interview and really didn’t take the time to prepare. I am feeling a lot more confident! Thanks, Sue
Comment by Sue Sanchez — August 6th, 2009 @ 11:56 am
Sue,
Great idea – amazing what one sees when the camera doesn’t miss anything. How many of us have gestures we aren’t aware of that are distracting.
Good for you to try something different, and, thanks for sharing. Good luck in your job search and let me know if you have questions. -Joyce
Comment by Joyce — August 12th, 2009 @ 12:39 pm