By Stacey Lane, MS
As a career coach, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t work during the job search process. Avoid making costly mistakes and learn from the experience of others using these proven strategies.
Rather than casting a wide net by applying to a number of jobs in a number of different industries, target market. Identify companies you want to work for (e.g. mid-size companies who produce consumer goods, or small environmental planning firms) and learn all you can about those specific companies and who they’re hiring.
80% of companies are considered to be small to mid-size, and this is the fastest-growing segment of available jobs. If you just target the “big names”, you’re working with only 20% of what’s available. Conduct company research (transfer your college-honed research skills to your job search!) Consider spending 80% of your time identifying opportunities with small to mid-size companies and 20% of your time on the larger companies. Also, you may want to consider an entry-level job with an exceptional company rather than a slightly higher position with a company that doesn’t have a very good track record.
“If I could only get an interview, I know that they’d want to hire me.” If you’re confident you’re a good match and have a lot to offer an employer, take a risk and ask directly for an interview. Don’t take it personally if they decline. Don’t wait until you see a job advertised - tap into the hidden job market and get in front of your first-pick employers before they advertise for your desired position.
Unless a recruiter comes knocking on your front door, you’ll need to do some networking. It’s estimated that 80-90% of available jobs are unadvertised. The best way to find out about these jobs is by talking to people who are “in the know”. Attend professional meetings within your industry (e.g. AIGA — American Institute of Graphic Arts). Check with a college career center or the Encyclopedia of Associations for specific groups within your field of interest. Don’t overlook purely social activities — network and have fun too.
Make a favorable first impression, no matter what the circumstance. Did you know that people form a first impression about you within the first seven seconds of meeting you? Dress as a professional and you’ll probably find it easier to be more professional. Even if you’re a laid back individual (read: sandals and shorts type of girl/guy) conduct a little experiment and see if dressing more professionally makes a difference in how you act. Be prepared with business cards (www.vistaprint.com) and keep notes so you stay organized.
Even if your neighbor, in the spirit of helpfulness, gives you the name of a carnival manager who’s hiring (you’re a computer science graduate), call the carnival manager. Politely introduce yourself. Tell them why you’re calling and help them help you by saying “Mr. Smith thought you might be a good contact for me, but I’m not sure he understood what I’m looking for. I just graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in computer science and I’m looking for an entry-level opportunity as a database administrator for a consumer products company. Do you know of anyone that I might contact?” Sure, you’ll hit some dead ends. But it’s a professional courtesy to the person who’s trying to help you, and what the heck, you just might be surprised to learn the carnival manager’s neighbor is the head of a large IT department.
Practice and rehearse giving a verbal snapshot of your education and experience in about 30 seconds. Your pitch should be easy to understand and it should be obvious what kind of work you’re pursuing. Consider the following: “I’m a recent political science graduate. I’ve done some volunteer work and had an interesting internship last year. I’m looking for something that will use my knowledge as well as my people skills.” Compare that with “I just graduated with a political science degree and I’m anxious to find an entry-level job with an environmental agency that specializes in green energy where I can learn more about lobbying.” Does one sound a little more focused? Good.
Don’t worry about appearing too eager for a job that you really want. Let the employer know you’re interested and tell them why. Be genuine and sincere. But don’t assume that the employer can tell that you’re enthusiastic - give them some obvious clues.
Is there someone whose career you admire? Take a risk and invite them to lunch. Establish a professional relationship with them. Ask their advice (making sure you update them every now and then) and get their input. Mentors can be invaluable in introducing you to others and providing advice that will really make a difference.
Consider “landing a job” to be your full-time project. Organize your job search so you stay on top of following-up, phone calls and research. Apply all the skills you’ve learned in college, like research and organization, to your job search. Seek out advisors like career center counselors and human resource professionals, and college professors when you’ve got a question or need some advice. Set up a professional work area at home and set regular “office” hours. Did you know that experts advise spending eight hours a day when searching for a full-time job?
© 2005 Stacey Lane. All rights reserved
Stacey Lane, MS, is a certified career coach who loves the challenge of working with professionals in their 20s-40s who are struggling with fulfilling their potential and answering the question “What should I do with my life?” Using an innovative and intuitive four step process, Stacey specializes in helping others develop smart career strategies. For more information, visit Stacey’s website at www.staceylane.net or contact her at stacey@staceylane.net or 503.975.6882.