Job Hunting

Job Hunting: A Universal Primer

As most people will attest, like death and taxes, job hunting is a life fact and can be a challenging endeavor. Whether you are just starting in the work world, or are a seasoned veteran, putting all the pieces together to arrive at an offer of employment can be described as part luck, part art, and lots of hustle.

What I’m hoping to provide in this and the following articles is a framework for your hunt, and some tools that I hope you’ll find helpful. You may be aware of some of them, or forgot about them, or could use a refresher. Whatever your situation, remember that in the end, finding a new position is very much a numbers game. By taking a few thoughtful steps however, you can overcome many hurdles. I come from the standpoint that one should use as many channels as possible, and not rely on an “apply and pray” strategy. Here are some important elements:

Your Resume: There are many ways to write a resume, and a lot of myths about which is best- which I hope to clear-up.

Job Boards: There are many from which to choose. I’ll show you which ones should give you the most traction.

Social Media: A double edged sword. Your presence on one or two of them is a must, but there are certain rules that need be followed.

Company Research: Always a good idea to keep notes on companies that interest you, that are hiring, and where you might have an inside track (friend, family, past work associate, past customer, etc.)

Networking: There is value in meeting people who share your goals, and this can be accomplished in many ways.

Please keep an eye out for my next post, starting with “Your Resume”.

By the way, here is my full disclosure:

I have been a recruiter since the mid-nineties working in agency, corporate, and contract environments. As an independent, I have to continually keep an eye on the next assignment (or client), so I’d like to think that what I preach is what I practice.