If Getting A Job Is A Job!

Job searching has changed over the years to reflect an actively moving labor market. That means that job seekers experiment with a range of approaches in order to find what works best with their targeted industry and employers.

One of the key elements to remember is that looking for job is an activity. This means that people who actively seek work find jobs. People who rely on passive approaches often spend a much longer time looking, and may never find what they really want.

Have you ever heard the phrase “pounding the pavement?” This refers to walking up and down the street (your feet literally pounding the pavement) to find a job. Although we have many more tools at our disposal today to conduct a job search, the essence of this phrase remains the same; in order to find a job, you must actively look and strategically position yourself. Finding a new job is a job in itself.

Around the world, many jobs are not advertised. Companies rely on word of mouth, look back over resumes submitted on previous jobs or unsolicited, they use headhunters and recruiting agencies, but they do not necessarily advertise in the papers. These unadvertised jobs usually exist in much greater numbers than advertised positions, and make up what we call the hidden job market.

When you are ready to look for job, tell a friend and ask that friend to help you spread the word. That first friend tells two friends, who each tell two friends, and suddenly the network takes off. This ripple effect is why it is so important that you know what you want and what you offer. Already, you have seven people who know that you are looking for job, and what you want.

Leads are more likely to come to you from a friend of a friend, rather than through the first friend that you told.  While you are networking, it is very important to stay positive. Use phrases like, “I am actively seeking a new opportunity,” to remind yourself that you are looking for something new and interesting. Do not get caught in a negativity trap and grumble or complain about your previous employers. No one wants to hire a negative or toxic person.

Wishing you all the best in your job search!