Effective Job Search Strategies

Effective Job Search Strategies.
How to effectively manage your job search.


Common problems for unemployed:

**Personal networks have been neglected while pursuing careers and are often starting job searches without a good network of friends/business colleagues/etc. to ask for assistance.
**Resumes are not up-to-date.
**Interview inexperience:
**Not currently using Social networking web sites (LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter)

SEARCH STRATEGY #1: YOU'VE LOST YOUR JOB. TIME TO BEGIN YOUR SEARCH
It is important that you don't put off your search (even if you have a sizable severance)! It is imperative that you get started on your search right away; the competition is fierce.

Techniques and strategies that are the most effective:

1. Positive Attitude!
2. Obtain contact information of: co-workers, friends, clients, and anyone else who can assist you with your job search. You should have this information printed and in an editable document (like Excel) for easy/quick updating.
3. Ask for letters of recommendation from your peers and managers in your company (do this right away, not the week before you have an interview)
4. Be sure to inform your colleagues, friends, etc. You will want to include your contact information. Personal Email Address, Phone Number, Mailing Address, Twitter, Facebook, Linked In, etc.
5. If applicable, offer your services to your past employer on a contract basis.
6. I always recommend (even if you aren't looking) to have your resume current. However, if it isn't current, then you need to develop the resume as soon as possible.
7. Never burn bridges... You will want to leave your present employer on the best of terms.


Search Strategy #2: BUILD YOUR NETWORK

1. Be hands-on with your job search! Network with people who can give you "good" job search assistance.

2. Be thankful for those that are helpful and respond to you. The long lost art of thank you notes has been forgotten. I always recommend to my candidates that they follow up with an emailed "thank you note" and sometimes a hand written note. It is amazing how many times this has made the decision in the hiring process.

3. Contact your alma matre Alumni Office. There are many resources that universities offer to past graduates.

4. You should already be a member of Linked In. If NOT! Then join!http://www.linkedin.com. Be sure that your profile is complete, and ask for recommendations. Linked In will not work, simply by joining. You will need to make insightful connections with hiring managers and recruiters.


5. Develop 60 second or less pitch about your background and what you are seeking. The pitch should include your greatest accomplishments and what you are looking for in a new opportunity.

6. Get connected to reputable search firms.

7. Stay current by attending relative seminars, workshops or conferences.


Search Strategy #3: The Art of Interviewing (I'm not kidding, it is an art!)
You are being asked to interview. Getting the interview is only 50% of the battle.

It's back to school for you; Do your homework! Research the company. You may also check out the person that will be conducting the interview or perhaps the hiring manager. Per the above, Linked In is a great resource for this. Also, company Websites.

Go to an interview with at least 10 prepared questions. These questions should be about the company and the position (never about salary, benefits, etc.)

ALWAYS dress professionally! Unless you have been told by your recruiter something specific to wear, then plan to wear a suit!

You will need to bring multiple copies of your resume.

Arrive 10 minutes early. No exceptions!

When a potential employer asks questions, give them answers that are quantifiable. Get to the point.

As stated above, always follow up with a thank-you note (email or hand written).

Be clear and concise about why you are the right fit for the job. This should be readdressed in your "thank you note" as well.

KEY!!! When you leave the interview, shake hands and express your interest in the job!


Search Strategy #4: OFFER NEGOTIATION

Share your past compensation candidly.
When they ask you, “What type of compensation package are you seeking?” You should start by answering: “I am very interested in this opportunity and would like to move forward in the process. I am open to a fair offer.” If you are pushed for an answer, “You know my previous compensation. I am open to similar offers but would prefer to avoid a step backward.” Keep in mind this is how you should handle yourself with a potential employer not your recruiter. Not being completely open with your recruiter puts them at a disadvantage in helping you.

It is also important to always get an offer in writing. Verbal offers are okay, but it must be followed by a written offer. NEVER turn in your notice to a current employer until you have a written offer of employment!

Feel free to take some time to evaluate an offer before accepting it. Review it carefully, and make sure all of the terms are acceptable. If not, think of which areas you are willing to give and which ones you are not. This is very much up to the individual. For example, you may be willing to take less pay for more vacation time.

Once you have accepted a new offer, let your network know and and share your new contact information. Be sure to thank everyone for their willingness to help you and remember to stay connected to this valuable network; it is very possible that you may need them in the future!