This article was first published in Sunday Business Post, November 6th 2011
So you are out of a job and the constant search is getting you nowhere. You are not alone. The widespread redundancies and general economic downturn has left lots of people in that position. That means a tighter job market for everyone, so perhaps it is time to take a more strategic approach to your job search.
1. Stop! Take Stock
Often when
people are looking for a new job, they don’t take the time out to take stock of
where they are and what they want. Reflect
on the job you have done, what worked and what didn’t.
Consider:
- Your strengths, weaknesses and key skills
- What you like to do and don’t like to do
- What do you value most e.g. recognition, autonomy, responsibility, pay and so on
- Are there opportunities that would fulfill your needs and plays to your strengths
2. Research
Now do some
research - figure out what is achievable and how you might get there. Identify
your best options so you can focus on those.
3. Create a Plan
Your job
search needs a plan. Having one will
keep you focused on your end goal (of getting a job) and will help you to
maintain structure at a time when it is easy to become de-motivated and
despondent.
4. Work your Network
Failing to
“work” your network is an opportunity lost.
Identify all your different networks (ex-work colleagues, college friends,
golf buddies, etc) and start systematically working your way through them
ensuring that everyone knows what you are looking for and what you have to
offer. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
5. Get your CV in order
It is too
late to start thinking about your CV when you spot your dream job. Create a core CV and Cover Letter that can be
tailored to individual jobs as they come up.
6. Build your Personal Brand
The
internet is a regular source of “background checking”. Start a blog and write about things that will
set you apart from the competition (in a good way). Use LinkedIn. Be aware that what you say and
do may be viewed by an employer so clean up your online image.
7. Be focused
Job search
is about quality not quantity. Applying
for a hundred jobs for which you are unsuited or don’t actually want is not in
your best interests. Focusing on those
that you really want and the companies that you want to work for is far more
likely to produce results. And you won’t
have that awful feeling of having applied for tons of jobs and having no
success.
8. Get creative
Not all
jobs are advertised so get creative in finding out where there are jobs. Look at announcements in the paper that may
suggest an opportunity. Offer to work on
a trial basis to demonstrate your worth.
Create your own webpage with a video CV.
Do what others aren’t!
9. Be prepared
Don’t leave
it until you are called for interview to start preparing. Think about your key achievements and
strengths and examples that will demonstrate those to a potential
employer. Research typical questions and
consider your answers. Get help.
10. Keep mind and body healthy
Job
searching requires a clear mind, good focus, a positive approach and lots of
energy. Ensure you have a good diet and exercise. Maintain structure and have downtime. Even if money is tight, get out and meet with
friends. Do something that makes you
feel good. If you start to lose faith,
take a step back, think of all those things that are good in your life and most
of all, smile!
For related material, articles, services and jobs for which we are recruiting go to http://www.consultingexcellence.ie/main/page_individuals_onetoone.html
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