Job searching can become frustrating and tiresome. In fact, there are many things about the job search that could be causing you problems without you knowing it. Here are a few areas that can be causing issues with your job search:
Follow Directions: Almost every company with a job opening has a select way of receiving your application, and it is not always the same method for how they want your application. On top of the typical application, they may also list what they would like to accompany it, whether it be physical items like additional documents, or just information such as a salary requirement. The same goes for interview instructions: know them and follow them. Be sure to follow instructions closely, failure to do so can send the message that your work skills may be equally lacking the ability to follow instructions and details.
No Complaining: Job searching can be hard, and frustrations can get you down. Don’t allow this to bleed into your discussions with potential employers. When discussing previous positions, do not complain about former companies, bosses, co-workers, or practices, and do not blame others for anything about your current situation. Turn whatever bad situation that may have caused your unemployment into a positive experience, stating what you have learned or done to remedy the situation. “When you complain about any of these things, you don't come across as a problem-solver, you look like a complainer—no one likes someone who complains,” says Hannah Morgan in a US News & World Report article.
The Pity Party Game: Similar to the no complaining guideline, do not seek to play the pity-party line. In a recent Forbes article, Nancy Collamer stated, “Yes, it’s a tough economy. Yes, age discrimination is real (particularly for women). Yes, it’s increasingly difficult for the long-term unemployed to find jobs. But you know what? Interviewers and your networking contacts don’t want to hear it.” Always keep a positive and upbeat attitude, and show them that you are a motivated person, not a frustrated whiner - no matter how much you want to let it out. Collamer goes on to suggest joining a support group or even meeting with trusted friends that you can vent these emotions to in order to get them out of your system.
Networking: Everyone knows it is needed, but not everyone does it properly. “This isn't a one-time transaction - effective networking has to begin before you need a new job. It is establishing trusting, long-lasting relationships and this happens when you exchange mutually beneficial information,” says Hannah Morgan in a recent Yahoo article. Networking is not just compiling a large list of people you can reach out to when you need something. It is establishing a relationship that offers both giving and taking on your part. Making contacts is good, but going further and seeking to establish a professional relationship is the goal. Become more than just someone asking for help. “Become known as a powerful resource for others. When you are known as a strong resource, people remember to turn to you for suggestions, ideas, names of other people, etc. This keeps you visible to them,” says Stephanie Speisman for Business Known How.
When it comes to time well spent during your job search days, one way to accomplish many things at once is to spend some of your time doing volunteer or side type work. It helps keep you busy to keep frustration from taking over, allows you to sharpen your skills, gives you something to show in the empty time on your resume work history, and it allows you to network even further – a real win – win – win – win situation.
Image courtesy of Salvatore Vuono at FreeDigitialPhotos.net
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