HOW TO GUIDE 2013

How to

ImportantPoints...

fInd a job

If you’re not getting rejected, you’re not putting yourself out there enough.

The job hunt is a personal journey, to be sure. Maybe you’re in the midst of a career change, re-entering the market after a long absence, or simply looking for a lateral move to a new company. Whatever the reason, everyone can use a hint or two along the way.

Before you even think about hitting the virtual job boards, there are a couple of im-portant details to take care of. As you begin your hunt, take a moment to be honest with yourself. The first lesson of branding is identifying a niche. That means playing up your strong suits to tell the most compel-ling story. Make sure you’ve identified ap-proximately the job you want and do a little research about common qualifications and the pay range for your level of experience in that particular field.

Tell a compelling storyThe story you tell should highlight the

attributes that coincide with the job you’re aiming for. For instance, if you’re trying to land a position in finance, emphasize the fact that you took care of the books at your last job – even if it was at a bakery.

Of course, lying or even stretching the truth is never a good idea on a resume or during the interview process. It will come back to haunt you later. However, strategi-cally placing your strongest features where they can be seen is crucial. Remember, employers or human resources personnel are likely scanning dozens, if not hundreds, of resumes, so think about how to make their job easier.

Your resume is a reflection of your expe-rience, your work ethic and style, and what you can offer. As you update your resume, there are a couple of simple things you can do to make sure you’re making a good impression:

• Make sentences active and succinct • Keep formatting as simple and clean as

possible; avoid colors or frills• Make sure your name and contact

information are prominently displayed • Proofread. Then proofread again. Then

give it to your neighbor to proofread.

Most importantly, be yourself! Let your personality and strengths shine through. The most important part about finding a job is finding the right fit, so don’t try to be someone you’re not.

Commense the searchThere’s more than one way to look

for a job. The most convenient way is to hunker down with a big cup of coffee and a computer. Modern day hunts are mostly done online via job search engines and digital help wanted ads. More than that, the Internet offers a sea of information about potential employers. Pick some companies that interest you and search their employ-ment listings for positions you may qualify for.

Some people are better in person than they are on paper. If you want to show off your conversational skills or just feel more like your best self in social situations, net-working could be for you. There are several meet-ups for professionals of all kinds, plus events like job fairs. Networking could be as simple as attending happy hours in the financial district or talking up your local barista. Or, make a list of friends and fam-ily who might be able to recommend an opening. You never know what’s out there until you ask.

For those who wish to leverage the ex-pertise of professional, headhunters, search firms and employment agencies are more than happy to help. Most headhunters get

paid with each match they make, so it’s in their best interest to find you a job you’ll do well in. Most agencies also offer search advice and resume writing and editing help.

As you’re zipping your resume off to dozens of companies and headhunting firms, be sure to stay organized. Keep a list or a spreadsheet cataloging each job you’ve applied for, when, what you sent them, and any follow-up details.

Searching for the right position can be tedious. You will write enough cover let-ters to fill a truck bed. However, treat your search like a full-time job. Give it the same attention and care you would if you were already getting paid and your efforts will speak for themselves!

Get ready for the interviewIn terms of research, you can never be

too prepared for an interview. You may not be able to change your skills and experience, but you can work harder than anyone else at learning specific details about the company. Become familiar with the history of the company, specifically within the context of the position you’re applying for. If it’s a marketing position you’re after, study their print and online collateral. If it’s a retail company you long to work for, visit their store and observe their customers.

Speak with existing employees about their experience, the expectations for the position and the company as a whole. Be blunt – ask them how long the position has been open and what your chances are at landing it.

When you’re finally in the hot seat, don’t let your nerves get the better of you. Rather than completely winging it, come up with a personal statement or elevator pitch. This will most likely be your response to the question, “tell me a little bit about your background.” In two minutes or less, you should be able to vocalize your profession-al background, accomplishments and goals. Use your pitch during interviews and for networking, where an even shorter version can come in handy.

• Dress for Success. Even if you know the company’s dress code consists of jeans and cowboy hats, dress appropri-ately for your interview. That means business attire, not your nicest pair of jeans.

• Change Your Mindset. Ini-tially, you may not land the job of your dreams, but stay open to new and different opportu-nities. You never know where they might lead.

• Clean up Your Image. It’s common these days for employers to check out the social media sights of their prospective hires. Make sure your facebook profile picture is appropriate and privatize your settings accordingly.

• Get Energized. Looking for a job can be frustrating, but make a game of it. People are drawn to those with a ton of positive energy, so put your best face forward!

• Volunteer. believe it or not, volunteered or unpaid posi-tions can lead to employment. While you’re job hunting, take a part-time gig with a company or organization you love.

You may not be able to change your skills and experience, but you can work harder than anyone else at

learning specific details about the

company.

HOW TO GUIDE 2013