It can be discouraging when the perfect job continues to elude you after a carefully planned search. As the saying goes, when what you are doing isn’t working, try something else. That advice is appropriately applied to the job search no matter the market or economy. Try the following tips to up your appeal to employers and get that job.
Look for Jobs that Hire in Counter-Cyclical Markets
These kinds of jobs, such as in education (people generally turn to education during a down economy as a way of boosting their marketability and skills), healthcare, collections, and storage facility related services, shed fewer jobs and in many cases actually gain jobs. With the right networking, you might find a virtually recession proof career.
Don’t Hibernate
Sure you might rather stay home in your pajamas than risk another "no" on a fruitless job search, but don’t. Seize the moment and the day. Everywhere you go, from your local coffee shop, place of worship, farmer’s market, mechanic, alumni or Toastmaster’s meetings, presents an opportunity to connect with a potential contact. Engage the people you meet. Learn about what they do and openly discuss your job search. Now isn’t the time to be shy. You should also ask if your new contact knows of anything or can introduce you to someone that does. Online networking works, too. Check out sites like LinkedIn or alumni listservs.
Do Plan Ahead
Bearing in mind that professional contacts are potentially everywhere, including your local grocer, you should be prepared to sell yourself at any time. Plan ahead so you don’t freeze up and miss your chance to tell the contact why you’d be great for the job. When preparing your speech, 15 to 20 seconds at the most, be sure to talk about your most marketable skills. If you aren’t sure about your strengths or accomplishments, why not talk with friends and former co-workers? You can also pull out old employee reviews for some ideas.
Your Calling Card – Never Leave Home Without It
Again, when it comes to finding a job in a competitive market, being prepared is everything. Don’t wait to perfect your cover letter. Do it now. Your resume should be targeted and updated. Keep that updated copy on your BlackBerry at all times so you can send it out immediately. It isn’t a bad idea to have a few copies on hand as well. If you have children, you may want to consider keeping these precious pages stored safely in a portfolio in your trunk. Calling cards are also a good idea. Save money by printing them at home using quality card stock available from your local office supplier. Don’t forget to include your email address.
Get Organized
Follow up is a must when searching for a job in a down economy. Catalog contacts and potential employers; let anyone you don’t hear from, hear from you. You don’t want to fall off of the radar because you want your name to come up when the job becomes available.
Stay Encouraged
You will only, finally, get to the "yes", when you make up your mind that it won’t kill you to hear "no". Searching for a job in a down economy requires more focus on building relationships and less focus on a bruised ego.
Barbara Gibson - Parenting is a joy and a challenge. Each day I learn something new about myself. I also grow in understanding and appreciation of my own ...
