Typical Job Search Advice

Ok... I took a look around for an example of the typical advice that one will find when looking for help on searching for the next job and within minutes I was at a newspaper in Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Star. The article, Develop resources to expedite the job search, really exemplifies what you must do in order to start your search but leaves you at a loss on what to do next in any of the situations they describe.

Sad! The situation is sad. "Focus on your strengths." How often have you heard that? Too many times. You've probably thought about your strengths and practiced the different forms of the question "What are your strengths?" but without knowing that you need to do more with this to truly land your "dream job" you will be left frustrated.

What do you do with your strengths? You need to use them! Not just make a list and know what to tell the hiring manager. Take advantage of your skill set. Sometimes teaching your skill will put you in position to reach out to those that are interested in your field. Thats just one eaxmple but the possibilities are endless. Try to use your skill to help yourself and not just your current employer.

"Keep an open mind." Thats a great idea! I'm sure you've already gone out and taken a look at what is available in your area and thought to your self that there aren't that many openings, you aren't hearing back from anyone or any numerous other worries. But don't get carried away with applying for anything. You should keep an open mind but don't apply to things that you either aren't qualified for or is totally in the wrong field of work. It is good to open up your options sonewhat but keep in mind that when you get a call you don't want to site there and say, "why did I apply for that? I would never do anything like that."

So what about Networking? That is the best idea yet. Many people find their next position through someone that they know. This is also the reason that you may not want to apply for any job out there. You may meet the person that you sent your resume to for the Chairman of the World Bank position and they will immediately laugh at you discount you and your abilities even if you are qualified for something else. This person or their contacts may be the key to your next job.

I would be remiss for not mentioning that with the amount of resumes that a hiring manager receives these days that they probably won't remember you if you apply to something that you aren't qualified for but do you want to chance that?

Try out some of the networking sites such as LinkedIn. You migt be surprised at some of the people tat you might have known from past positions that you may be able to leverage in your search.

Be sure to use what you have and think about who you know and get out there and search!