Exploding Job Search Myths

Posted on Today, 01:26 am, under Career Advice

There are some things about job hunting that seem so natural, so obvious that they MUST be true. However, the reality can be surprisingly different. Are you a smart and savvy job seeker? Test your knowledge against our brief list of some of the most pervasive myths about job hunting. Read on:

1. The applicant with the best qualifications always gets the job. It may sound counter-intuitive, but this is false. This one is probably the most widely-believed of the numerous myths out there. In truth, interviewers aren't just looking at your qualifications, but at your people skills and personality. They need to see if you're a good fit for their company. Therefore, never write yourself off if you don't necessarily meet all the qualifications for a position. And conversely, if you think you're the most qualified person for the job, don't get too cocky just yet. You'll need to prove yourself in the interview first.

2. In a bad economy, you have to take the first job you can get. Unless you're on the verge of losing your house or already suffering from financial and emotional problems, this is probably a bad move. Of course, if you like the job description and the compensation is satisfactory, by all means go for it. But if it's not going to take your career where you want it to go, you're probably better off holding out for a job that fits your plan for life.

3. Confining your job search to the Internet will get you multiple offers. Some people nowadays think that they can conduct a successful search solely on Internet job boards, without ever leaving their house. However, with the economy in its current state, this isn't feasible. Looking for employment online is an important part of any job search, but it is only one element out of many. Applying to ads in the newspaper's help-wanted section and making calls to companies are still necessary for getting those all-important interviews. To make things easier, consider getting a job-hunting buddy.

4. The lower your salary demands, the better your chances of getting a job. Actually, by going below a reasonable salary for the job requirements and the employer's location, you show that you're desperate to get the job, any job in fact. And that's one thing you never want to show a potential employer. Even if you do get the position, you won't be happy for long because you'll feel that you're working for less than what you really deserve.

5. Job postings and want ads make up the majority of available jobs. Not true. In reality, publicly-advertised jobs make up only around 15 percent of all employment opportunities. The "hidden" job market constitutes the vast remainder. The higher the salary, in fact, the less it will be advertised. So how do you find these jobs? By networking and knocking on doors. Read our article on accessing this market here. 

Relocating? What You Need to Know

Posted on Today, 01:20 am, under Career Advice

With the economy in its current state, people all over the country are opting to move to wherever they can find employment. Despite the downturn, there are still many employment opportunities out there, though not necessarily in your own home city. For example, many of the thousands of jobs being created by the federal government  are located in and around the Washington, D.C. area.

If you're considering relocating, make sure you're ready for it by putting the following items on your to-do list:

When applying for a position outside your hometown (or country), indicate your willingness to relocate by including a short paragraph in your cover letter. Furthermore, if you are willing and able to move without a potential employer's assistance, put that down as well. Saving your employers' money on relocation costs can only improve your chances of getting hired, and it shows that you're financially capable.

Next, do all the research you can on your desired location, career, and place of work. To get real insider information view, check out online forums and blogs maintained by locals. Ask questions about everything you may need to know: the cost of living, local culture, transportation system, infrastructure, local government services, schools (if you have children), demographic make-up, etc. Consider everything and weigh your options carefully before you decide to move.

Talk to your family and friends about moving. Find out what your loved ones think, since they're the ones who know you best and will be certain to give you an honest opinion. They may offer you a different perspective on your situation, or some much-needed advice that may change your mind about moving.

If and when you actually land the job, the first thing you need to do is negotiate terms with your employer and formalize them in writing. This is where that research you did about local cost of living will come in handy. In addition, before you sign anything binding, go over the document with a lawyer or career specialist.

Then, try living in your chosen location for a week or so. Get a feel for the town and imagine how your daily life there would feel like. Mentally go through your daily routine. Besides dropping by your new place of work to meet your coworkers, this is also a good chance to look at housing and other places of interest.

Finally, hire a moving service well in advance. Making early preparations (at least six weeks in advance) helps you avoid extra fees and reduces stress on moving day. Ask moving company representatives to visit your house and give you an appropriate quote. Once you've selected your service provider, update them every other week so they'll be ready to help you on the day itself.

Picking Yourself Up After Getting Laid Off

Posted on Today, 01:17 am, under Career Advice

Last week, we listed several ways to secure yourself financially in case you lose your job. This week, we deal with how to bounce back from that setback.

Whatever the reason for your termination, losing your job means that you're back in the job market. True, it can be a real blow to lose a steady source of income, but instead of sitting around being depressed, the best thing to do is to jump back immediately into a search for a new career. Don't be discouraged; this as an opportunity to start anew. 

1. Decide whether it's time for a career change. Were you happy in your old job? If not, did you acquire any skills that you can use in another industry? If you're uncertain about what you want to do, career assessment tools and websites such as CareerMaze and Job Diagnosis can help to point you in the right direction.

2. Give your resume an overhaul. You may wish to add a section listing your transferable skills and key accomplishments, if you haven't done so already. Put it at the top so you can draw attention away from your employment history and last employer. Instead of using a chronological format, make a functional resume. In addition, make a second, text-only resume that can be scanned for keywords in an online database (use a simple format with no pictures, lines, bullets). 

3. Consider whether to relocate or remain where you are. Are there more job opportunities elsewhere? Think about it and consider our advice here as well

4. Use your network. Tell your professional contacts, as well as family and friends, that you're back in the job market. You don't need to tell them that you were let go, but in these tough times it's nothing to be ashamed of either. The more you spread the word, the greater your chances of getting a reference or referral.

5. Prepare yourself for rejection. It's never easy when you get it, but don't let it discourage you too much. It's a natural part of any job search. And if you do get rejected, turn it into a constructive opportunity by asking what you could have done to get the position.  

In everything you do, stay positive and persevere. It may sound trite, but maintaining a healthy attitude really is the best strategy for getting through lean times.