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Although the job market is improving from its bottom in 2009, there are still many challenges faced by those seeking a new opportunity. \u00a0In this article, we will attempt to outline the various options available to the job seeker. \u00a0By using a combination of these options, the odds of landing a new and better job will increase substantially.<\/p>\n
Only about 25% of all jobs out there are being advertised. \u00a0The rest of them are being filled through internal promotion or employee referrals via networking. \u00a0The 3 doors you can open in your job search are as follows:<\/p>\n
The job search process is composed of 2 different components. \u00a0They are firstly the “Vision” and secondly the “Action.” \u00a0It is important to address each of these by making a list of the parts contained within each of them. \u00a0Begin by creating your “Vision” by using this outline and making a list of the following:<\/p>\n
From the above list, you can prepare your branding statement or what is sometimes known as the 30 second commercial. \u00a0By using the above criteria, you need to create a compelling story of your accomplishments. \u00a0Practice this so that you know it well but try to make sure that it does not sound rehearsed. \u00a0Use your own words and keep it in mind because it will be an important reference point when you are face to face with potential networking contacts or in the actual job interview.<\/p>\n
The next step will be your “Action Plan” which will establish the direction of your job search. \u00a0It is very important to have a plan because remember without one, all roads can lead to nowhere. \u00a0The downfall of most people in their job search is to have a haphazard approach akin to throwing spaghetti at a wall and hoping some of it sticks. \u00a0Moving forward without a plan rarely works. \u00a0Each plan should contain the following 3 components:<\/p>\n
Now you are ready to make your next move. \u00a0You can begin to utilize Job Boards, Recruiters and your Networking contacts. \u00a0Several good Job Boards to target are CareerBuilder, HotJobs, and Monster. Many Recruiters will list positions on these sites. \u00a0Recruiters fall into 2 categories which are the Headhunter and the Retained Firm. \u00a0A Headhunter will be paid when the position is filled and the Retained Firm is under contract with an organization to fill all their open positions. \u00a0They will usually present between 3-7 candidates to the prospective employer.<\/p>\n
Your networking contacts will fall into 2 categories which are Informal and Targeted. \u00a0It is possible for a contact to be both. \u00a0Essentially, the Informal contact is a person that you may just know as an acquaintance from which you are asking for feedback. \u00a0They may work in the industry or company you are targeting. \u00a0Ask them for their feedback on where you might potentially fit into the organization. \u00a0Do not ask them point blank if the company is hiring. \u00a0Keep it as a soft sell and casual conversation. \u00a0What you are looking for is for them to suggest another contact for you to reach out to that falls into the category of the Targeted networking contact. \u00a0This will be the person that is more closely connected to those in the hiring circle. \u00a0It may be an HR contact or a hiring manager at the firm. \u00a0Continue to pursue this strategy in all your personal interactions and you will find it will start to yield positive results. \u00a0 \u00a0Other areas open to fostering networking opportunities are groups such as the Chamber of Commerce for your community, industry clubs, alumni organizations or other formerly advertised networking events. \u00a0Most of your energy should be spent in this type of tactical networking since this is the door where 75% of all candidates who are hired are entering.<\/p>\n