Finding Your Dream Job in This Troubled Economy

Finding your dream job in today's market is not impossible. You just need to apply some tried and true principles to your job search. This article will provide you with tools that you need in order to succeed.

1. Promote yourself. You have a lot to offer. Work up a "30 second commercial" that includes your name, your experience, the type of job that you are looking for and the name of a company or two that you would like to work for. For example: "My name is ________, and I have 10 years experience in warehousing management.  I am looking for a position in warehousing management Two of the companies that I am interested in working for are _________ and ________.  "Note that the 30 second commercial does not include an explanation of what happened on your last job.  Stay brief, upbeat, and positive.
2. Network. Write down 50 people that you know. Now call each of them. This may take a couple of weeks. That's OK, Rome wasn't built in a day. When you speak to them, do not ask them for a job. Give your 30 second commercial and ask if they know anyone at the companies you named, or similar companies.  For instance: "Hello Mary, this is Bill Smith. How are you? I wonder if you could help me.  I have 10 years experience in warehousing management,  and am looking for a job in that field. My top two target companies are ________ and ________.  Do you know anyone at those companies or similar companies?" Take down any information they give you, ask if you may use them as a reference, and thank them for their time.
3. Follow up. Write a thank you note to each of the people with whom you network. They are your lifeline to a new career. Of course, the same goes for all of the people who interview you for a job.
4. Do not rely on want ads. 80% of the jobs landed are landed through networking, not through want ads.  Don't ignore want ads, but do not use them exclusively.
5. Record keeping. Keep a detailed record of the people and companies with whom you have spoken to or corresponded with. Include company names, dates, phone numbers, and future action required.  I like to use Excel for records such as this. The tougher the job market, the longer the search and the more people you will need to contact. Start keeping detailed records NOW.
6. Keep a Daily Routine. This includes dressing professionally, leaving the house and filling the day with legitimate job search activities. Remember, your job is to find a job, not tidy up the garage or clean out the closet. It is easy for people who are unemployed to fill the day with "busy work" that fills the time but not the pocketbook. Public libraries or places like Starbucks are good "home offices" for people in job search mode. If you stay at home you will be distracted from your job search.
7. Professional resume' assistance.  If you are short on funds, use the counselors at government employment agencies. They are trained to help people like you write a resume.
8. Draw strength from others. Find and use a support group made up of other people looking for work.
9. Did I mention networking? Experts tell us that this is the real key, so keep it up. After you go through the first 50 people, write down 50 more and contact them.
10.  Don't give up! There is a job out there for you. You just need to be persistent in finding it.

» left by Avis Ward

2 years 307 days ago.
131 fans.

Dave, another great article. It is right on target! Ironically, I just submitted a piece and the backdrop was at a networking function! Keep contributing because we need to hear what you have to say. We're in this together. I posted an ad on Craigs List in my area to provide resume services at no charge to blue collar workers, no catch. I'd love to use this article if I may? 

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» left by Dave Dozier 2 years 307 days ago.
8 fans.

Of course, Avis. Simply follow the protocol and give me credit, however Searchwarp says it should be done.

 

Dave

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» left by Anonymous 2 years 307 days ago.

Thanks Dave!

Avis

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