With the current economic downturn, many people may be experiencing unemployment for the first time. Even for those who have been laid off before, it's possible that this time, it may take longer to return to work.
Because there are so many now out there competing for the job openings that may be available, those who are looking for work may need to find ways to give themselves a competitive advantage.
Defining the search
The first thing job seekers may want to do before beginning to apply for jobs is take the time to conduct some self-analysis. This can help them to identify what it is that they really want to do and gauge their potential success for the type of work they're seeking. Knowing what they want to do will help those on the search to narrow their focus and concentrate their efforts within a well-defined theme.
For those who aren't exactly sure what they want to do, there are several tests available to help. These are available at several area hiring firms, as well as career centers.
These tests can measure temperament or reveal the applicant's top strengths.
When it is time to create a résumé, don't forget transferable skills, which are skills that have been acquired during any activity - jobs, classes, projects, parenting, hobbies, sports, virtually anything - that are transferable and applicable to tasks that would be done if the desired job is obtained. In résumés and cover letters, as well as during interviews, skills should be portrayed as applicable to the job that is sought.
Reach out, track efforts
Don't forget to network as much as possible. Contact old friends and relatives. Join a professional association.
If the job search signals a career change, join an association for the industry in which the job is located. This can be a small price to pay for the valuable information and professional connections.
Keep track of search activities. Create a simple spreadsheet to list companies applied to, the dates of applications and the names of those to whom résumés were sent. Also note any responses received or follow-up efforts made. Remember to keep copies of résumés and cover letters sent to each employer.
Regularly go back and review searches. If you are not getting calls for interviews, try changing your materials or when the applications are being submitted.
For example, if you have to e-mail a résumé and cover letter, don't do it on Friday at 5 p.m. Wait until late Sunday night or early Monday morning; that way your response will be higher in the recipient's mailbox and less likely to get lost among other applicants.
Closing the deal
When an interview is granted, keep in mind that while a job interview is similar in many ways to a social conversation, it requires more than just conversational skills. How well an interview goes will depend on how well an applicant can elaborate on accomplishments and qualifications as they relate to what the employer wants and needs.
Remember, too, that the end goal is a job offer, not just to appraise a particular company or gain broader knowledge of available opportunities. An undecided or uncertain attitude has no place in a job interview.
Last, but certainly not least, seek help from a placement agency or career center. Services such as résumé reviews and job tips from career experts can help job seekers find success, even in a job market where more people are searching for work.[[In-content Ad]]
Bill Dowling is director of the Missouri Career Center in Springfield. He may be reached at bdowling@jcocmis.org.
