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Landing a job at any time is a challenge, but what about in a tough job market? Whoa! That can be a monumental undertaking. Not only are YOU out there looking, but there are 100’s more competing for the same position.
I had not been in the job hunting mode for over 30 years, and things have really changed. It used to be that you could drop off a resume, get called in for an interview, meet with the prospective new boss, who would ask a few questions about your qualifications, and then make up their mind in a couple of days, if not during your interview!
Now you submit a resume online to a human resources person, who weeds through anywhere from 50 to 500+ applications. To ease the process your resume is “swept” for the appropriate keywords, narrowing down the number which actually has to be read. A limited number of applicants are contacted to participate in an interview with a group of four to twelve people over three hours. You are interrogated as though you are a member of a terrorist group, and then dismissed with a “we have several we are interviewing, we’ll call you.” If you are called back for a second interview with additional members of the staff, don’t get too excited. It is still part of the weeding out process. You will be asked to fill out a number of documents which allow this employer to investigate your background, run a credit check, and ask leading questions of prior employers, which you have given permission for them to answer! Yes, it’s a jungle out there, and you are the prey.
Take heart, here are just a few suggestions which may help you survive this process and achieve victory!
Resume customization
Prepare several resumes that feature your strengths:
- Electronic: A resume in rich text version that can easily be uploaded electronically. Incorporate key words which are used in the typical job descriptions for your field. By featuring highlights and accomplishments this resume can duplicate as your cover letter.
- Conventional Resume: Incorporate professional looking formatting in this version. Include career highlights, accomplishments, education and itemized skills. This should be accompanied by a customized cover letter.
- Full Resume: This version is fully formatted to capture the eye of the interviewer; includes highlights and accomplishments; full career history; itemized skills or keywords; references; and personal characteristics. This resume is presented at the time of your interview.
Work on your cover letter
It takes more time, but if you tailor the cover letter to match the job description you will have a better chance of touching on those key words and issues that the employer will appreciate. You may respond to fewer job openings, but the ones that you do answer will include a customized letter that addresses your desire for that particular position, and how your character and training will meet the needs of the hiring company. As you are going through this process you are mentally preparing yourself for the interview.
Be open to contract work
Employers are very familiar with the cost of hiring and training new employees, only to find that it just isn’t a good fit. To reduce the initial commitment many companies are offering part-time, temporary or contract work. Many times the responsibilities are just as demanding as full-time, salaried, but the potential cost of separation is greatly reduced. The employer has a chance to see how you fit in, what your work ethic is, and whether you are truly qualified for the position. Likewise, you have the opportunity to learn whether there is growth potential with this company. .
Widen your marketability
- Be open to relocation: In a tough market, many job seekers are hesitant to sell their home. If you are not tied down to real estate, you have the potential to increase your options.
- Make contacts through social networking: Facebook, LinkedIn, and MySpace are opportunities to connect with old friends and past co-workers.
- Utilize the local chamber of commerce member’s list to research “hidden” job opportunities that are only listed on the company’s website. Register and post your resume for future openings.
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