8 Simple Job Search Tips
We recently published an article based upon an email I received from a co-worker titled, It's Time to Prepare for a Layoff. This article served to be a reality check and alert us on things we need to have in place just in case we get that shocking call to the HR department. What was even more ironic is that I received a message from a friend stating that after reading that article in the morning, she was laid off that same afternoon.
Black men are unfortunately really feeling the reality of the unemployment crisis. According to statistics, about 17 percent of black men are unemployed. The national average is around 10 percent. These statistics paint a picture of an extremely competitive job market. This rising competition means that those in the market for a job (especially black men) must be extremely detailed and strategic in their approach for a job.
We can understand that the pressure of trying to find a job can be overwhelming. But we are confident that with the job search suggestions below, finding a job in these times can be possible.
Be proactive. You really can not wait for the normal big job websites like Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com to list your ideal job. Take a look at specific messages and job boards within your industry to get a jump on the competition. We also have a job search tool on our website in the sidebar that may be helpful.
Be flexible. We have to be willing to expand our boundaries more in tough times like this. It may not be as feasible to narrowly search for a job within certain parameters. Be willing to take a paycut, commute longer and work a variety of shifts
Revise your resume. When it come to your resume, you have to make yourself look as appealing as possible to get a callback from an employer/recruiter. So be sure to adhere to the following:
- Don't be a history paper - It is very important that you outline what you have accomplished on your job, versus simply stating your job responsibilities. Show how many sales you created, money you've brought in, intiatives you've implemented, etc.
- Don’t live by spellcheck alone: The last thing you want to do is lose out on a potential interview because of some misspelled words. Be sure you proofread your resume, have others who are good editors proofread it and proofread the edited version. Employers are looking for the easiest ways to disqualify candidates.
Start a people search. Please understand the websites and job boards aren't hiring, people are. So take time to scour your existing network and search for contacts within the companies where you are seeking employment. Establishing relationships can be half the battle.
Engage Social Media. Most just use LinkedIn when they are looking for a job. But don't forget about Facebook and Twitter just because you deem them more impersonal. You never know "who may know who" in a position to help with you search.
Find a Mentor. We mentioned the importance of having a mentor in an earlier article. If you have one, I hope you will ask for their assistance. If you are without one, think about who you admire and solicit them to become your mentor. This can be helpful because a mentor can help with resume writing, interviewing strategies and give a fresh perspective overall.
Know Your Stuff. When you are being interviewed, one of the first questions is, "Tell me what you know about XYZ Company." Don't be blindsided by this. Be sure to review information on their website, press room and recent articles published.
Pay Close Attention to the Instructions. Each company may request a different way to apply for jobs. Some may want a job # included in your subject line when emailing a resume, as an example. Some companies use these details as a beginning screening tool to eliminate applicants who do not follow intstructions. So read and follow their guidelines to the letter of the law.
It is our hope that you are able to take these suggestions and apply them to your situation. If you have any suggestions and additions to this list, please let us and other readers know via the comment section.
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