Job hunting can be a difficult time for anyone. Are you feeling disheartened by the results of your job search? If so, I’ve outlined 10 strategies you can apply to turn around your efforts.
1. First, figure out where you’re lost or stuck in your job search. Is your résumé getting interviews? Are you getting offers after your interviews? You have to identify the problem before you can find a solution.
2. Are you applying for positions that you’re qualified for? Meaning, you’re not underqualified, and you’re not overqualified, either.
3. Make sure you’re applying for positions that are aligned with your résumé. In other words, if you told your professional résumé writer your job target was as an administrative assistant, don’t use the résumé to apply for dental hygienist jobs.
4. Ensure you have a clearly defined goal that you’re pursuing. Wanting “any” job usually means you don’t get “any” offers.
5. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. If your current job search isn’t working, it’s time to do something different. Create an action plan of specific activities that will help you connect with prospective employers — the most effective job search strategies involve talking to people who can either hire you directly or put you in direct contact with a hiring manager.
6. Enlist help. Ask a friend, another jobseeker, or a career coach or counsellor to be your accountability partner — someone who will support, encourage, and motivate you in your job search.
7. Not sure what you want in your next job? Do a self-assessment. What are you good at? What do prospective employers in your field need? Is there a match between the two?
8. Not getting interviews? The problem might be your résumé. If you haven’t consulted with a professional résumé writer, ask for feedback. Some résumé writers charge a fee to critique your existing document; others will provide a brief analysis along with a recommendation about which of their services will assist you in your job search.
9. Assess how you’re preparing for job interviews. Are you setting yourself up for success by researching the company and the person interviewing you, learning more about how you can fit into the company, and what you have to offer?
10. If you’re getting interviews, but not offers, consider practising your interviewing skills. Listen carefully. Don’t be afraid to ask questions — remember, you’re looking for a match.
