In our current climate, there are many candidates looking for work, and very few job openings, especially for professionals. From the job seeker point of view the challenge is to keep getting out there and looking in a systematic way.
From an employer point of view, the challenge is to sort through all the applications for the person to fill an opening. Job Seekers are trying to get someone’s attention as they network, blog, twitter, post on a social networking site and attend job fairs. Techniques have changed but the goal is the same – a satisfying job!
Some are looking at positions and reimbursements they might never have considered a year ago. The mistake that some applicants make is to apply for jobs that they are not remotely qualified for. This not only reflects badly on their credibility, but it is irritating to the recruiters who have to work through all the applications. The job seeker is better off not wasting their time and the company’s with inappropriate applications.
If an opportunity presents that is somewhat related to past experience it is a different story – and the challenge there is to submit a resume that highlights the appropriate experience. As job seekers persevere, their best tool is good research. Understand the company, their goals and their current economic climate in addition to the opportunities they offer.
Be aware that not all positions are posted in easily accessible places. The candidate’s networking and research may identify opportunities not obvious to others. For example, there may be a need for certain skills in an organization, but the job request hasn’t been formalized. News releases may give information on a new project or sales contract that offers opportunity for adding people – if the candidate has relevant experience it would be worth an introduction or informal meeting with someone in the company. Or the company is replacing the COO and the COO doesn’t know it yet!
The company will have its own network – finding those people that can promote the candidate’s resume are worth gold!
RSS Subscribe
Email Newsletter