Searching for a job can be stressful, but with the proper tools and information job-hunters can maximize their chances for success. One of the most important steps to take when beginning a job search is to recognize common myths about how to find jobs. The idea that posting a resume online is all the effort that is required to secure new employment is one such myth.
Other common misconceptions include the idea that it is no longer necessary to send out hard copies of the resume and that a quality resume can be drafted simply by copying examples from the internet. These ideas are incorrect and adhering to them makes finding the right job difficult. By understanding a bit more about how companies search for employees and select new hires, individuals can direct their job search efforts in the most productive way possible.
While some people insist that looking for a job during and immediately after the holiday season is not ideal, the fact is that November through January is a great time to look for a job. Many companies hire temporary or contract employees during the holiday season and move them to a permanent status based on performance. This allows employers to try potential employees out with less risk.
Regardless of the time of year the job search is being conducted, actively pursuing jobs is a critical component of finding the right job; posting a resume on mainstream websites like Monster.com and Indeed.com is not enough. Constant searching for job listings as well as posting for specific positions is necessary, as is the way the resume is written. Key words from the job description must appear in the resume or it is filtered out by the job search engine software before ever reaching hiring personnel. This means that the old, standard template resume describing previous job duties is insufficient. It’s easy to assume that jobs simply aren’t available, especially in this economy, but the bottom-line is, job-hunters who are not getting call backs within 48hours of aggressively sending out resumes should have their resume revised. If a “dream job” pops up in an online database, applicants should not rely solely on the World Wide Web; sending a hard copy to the hiring manager via FedEx is advised.
Another essential factor in successful job searches is networking. When prospective employers can attach a face to a resume it helps that person stand out from the stack of anonymous job applicants. Joining networking organizations, attending conferences, participating in associations or societies, and meeting with headhunters or recruiters in the desired field are all excellent ways to network. Networking is most effective when job hunters market themselves, just as they would market a physical product. Ordering business cards to display name, job title, industry and contact information and handing them out at every opportunity is one example of networking and self-marketing. Social media sites, such as LinkedIn and Facebook, provide excellent networking resources too. In addition to featuring job listings and groups that post jobs, they are designed to encourage connection between industry professionals. Many times individuals begin new jobs that are somehow connected to someone in one of their social networks. With this in mind, experts recommend that individuals pursing a new job or a job change stay connected to people in every way possible.
Sonya Smith, MBA is a consultant offering clients resume restructuring, training and job placement guidance and services. Ms. Smith also provides a broad range of tax services for individuals and corporations. She can be reached at Smithsn2000@gmail.com or at 248-956-0061.
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Source: Natural Awakenings Magazine of Wayne County
