Whether you've just graduated and are looking for your very first job or you've been a member of the workforce for years and are re-entering the job market, there are 3 skills you should work to cultivate. Finding a job isn't easy, but nothing worthwhile ever is. Although it might be tempting to take a slightly haphazard approach to the matter, it's only with proper research and a strategic job search plan that you'll find a job that is a good fit for you and one that will take you to the next level in your career, rather than simply paying the bills.
Here are 3 skills that every job seeker needs:
The ability to be consistent – Looking for a job is a full time job in itself. If you already have a job and are looking for new opportunities, you have to commit to working on it every day. For those who are out of work, no matter how discouraged you become, you need to set aside a block of time each day to devote to job search activities. It's so easy to get busy with other things, especially in the summer months, but consistency is an important part of success. Plus, once you find the job that's right for you, you won't have to work so hard to stay on task and focus.
The ability to focus your search – Especially when you're out of work and desperate to find something, it's tempting to cast your job search net wide. Logically, it makes sense. If you leave all of your options open, you'll increase your odds of landing something. Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way in practice. Instead of attracting a larger amount of interest, not being specific in your search will discourage employers that would otherwise be interested in you. You see, it's sort of like trying to find a romantic partner. Just saying you want someone with a pulse won't make you more attractive. It will make you appear desperate. Employers want to believe that you are interested in their specific job, that you want to work for their company and that you value your skills enough to know what you want and that you expect to find it.
The ability to assess and change your strategy – Change is hard but sometimes it's necessary. With a job search, it's important to be fluid in your approach and willing to adjust your strategy as needed. Don't slow yourself down by clinging to the belief that “this is how job searching is done.” Be flexible. If you are finding it difficult to get an interview with the companies you're interested in, you might want to increase your networking efforts in order to find a way to get your foot in the door. If you are convinced that it's not “what you know, but who you know,” get to know those people. If you think that you aren't getting job offers because you are too old, then edit your resume and cover letter to show off your current technology, your enthusiasm and your willingness to learn new ways of doing things instead of focusing on your years of experience. Think of your job search like an archery contest. If you aim, shoot and miss the target, assess the problem and then adjust your aim.
Finding a job is one of the more difficult things we ever have to do. Keep in mind that the right job will pay you a salary that will allow you to support yourself. Over the course of your career, you will invest a large part of your life to the company you work for and they will invest in you as well. It's worth the effort up front to find a career that works for you.
Have you found these skills important in your search? Why or why not? Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
Image source: MorgueFile
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