I had a good discussion a couple of days ago with a friend who mentioned how many times he heard job candidates describe their interests as “being open” to anything as long as it was a job. While this may seem like a good plan to attract more employers it usually does just the opposite – when your search is too broad it can leave you with no direction.
My friend quickly pointed out that he had never read a job posting that listed, “We are looking for anyone who could do anything” but rather scanned titles and specific skills needed to attract talented employees.
He made a good point, most job candidates who use the “I will work anywhere” strategy are the ones who often end up going around in circles with their search efforts. Often feeling exhausted with no results.
So how do you make your job search more productive? It starts with a plan and without one you are likely to flounder and just hope for the best. Making a plan doesn’t restrict your options rather it provides a direction however there is one important step that candidates overlook – a plan without actions is just a plan that will not produce results.
If you are not accomplishing what you had hoped for in your search, it’s a good time to consider taking a different approach. For example joining a job search group is a great way to expand your networking and practice getting out of your comfort zone.
Job search groups are powerful in helping you shape and identify your job search plans. One of the greatest challenges is trying to conduct a job search alone and it’s super easy to stray off course with no one to give you a performance review. Staying connected in a group setting helps you with accountability.
Here are some quick tips to help get your job search back on course, it’s never too late to start something new.
Tip #1. Keep your focus. Follow through on at least one action step daily. Putting you action plan to work makes your search build momentum. Tune out the noise around you and keep your focus on taking daily steps needed to land a good opportunity.
Tip #2. It’s easy to blame the job market. If your job search is not producing the results you are looking for consider changing your search techniques. Do something new rather than spend energy blaming.
Tip #3. Practice saying out-loud how you want others to remember you during introductions. Starting out with “I am looking for a job” might be your goal however it is not the best way to describe yourself. Be careful in choosing the right words to describe yourself, aim for keeping your introduction to 15-30 seconds.
Tip #4. Join a job club or job search group. They can help you in a number ways; discuss leads, share ideas and provide structure for your search. Don’t discount the opportunities to make new friends for now and in the future.
Tip #5. Take the time to develop an online presence through social networking sites. Social networking is a must and an excellent way to share information and ask for feedback without leaving your home.
Tip #6. Invite a friend for encouragement. If the thoughts of going to an event alone is preventing you from meeting others, take a friend along to help with introductions and build up confidence.
Tip #7. Prepare questions in advance. It helps to have a list of questions as a fall back to keep the conversation moving during networking meetings. Learn how to create rapport by discovering what you share in common.
Tip #8. Follow up, follow up, and follow up. All of the efforts in networking and creating rapport will go by the wayside if you delay in following up with the contacts you made. Don’t wait on others to reconnect.
Tip #9. Identify target companies. Make a list of employers that not only interest you but employ those with your skill sets. Research the list and find connections.
Name one action step that changed your job search results.
