Job hunting doesn’t come so easy for job seekers especially
with the increasing competition within each industry. Here are ways for you to
keep yourself from making common self-sabotaging mistakes and keeping your job search
alive.
1. Remember it’s not all about you.
You’ve probably heard this before and here it is again. It
is important for you to remember this since this is one of the most common
mistakes a job seeker tends to forget.
You aren’t the only applicant a company receives, so don’t
start going about your job search and interview with a “What’s in it for me?”
attitude. Learn about the company. Show them what your skills can contribute in
their community and progress.
2. Strengthen your Professional Network.
Don’t be passive. It’s a good idea to work on your
networking efforts to boost your chances of finding employment.
Utilize social media and your network to make introductions.
Join professional groups to target companies of interest
and contact them directly. It has also been recommended contacting recruiters
who specialize in your industry, since they can help identify positions you may
not be aware of.
3. Be flexible.
You may overlook some great opportunities that require
moving if you are unwilling to move and relocate. Consider if you can work from
home in a telecommuting job if you can’t relocate.
4. Don’t be too choosy.
Take the available job now, excel at it and keep networking
until you find your dream job. You may think having a lesser job will hinder
your career path or professional growth but being unemployed for a long time
could do even more damage to your resume, bank account and self-esteem.
5. Get busy.
Take this opportunity to start creative projects/business,
enrich your hobbies or find a part-time job. Being unemployed shouldn’t mean
you’re doing nothing.
Look for freelance or volunteer work, in or out of your
industry, that can add value to your resume in some way. You can also fine-tune
your skills or enhance your education by taking classes and training workshops
at local schools.
You can also use this time to organize papers and apply for
things such as tax identification number, social security number, health
insurance and such or you could use this time to further widen your credibility
by taking eligibility exams.
6. Always Follow up.
“When you have a lead, you need to know how to use it well
and follow up professionally,” according to Susanne Goldstein.
“Complete tasks, send emails with proper grammar [and] make
the follow-up calls.” Follow up with the hiring manager with a thank-you note
after an interview, and then again if you don’t hear back within the time frame
he or she indicated.
Remember, you don’t want to flood the employer with daily
emails about the position. But being proactive will demonstrate your enthusiasm
and interest in the job.
7. Take care of yourself.
You might have to be a bit more intentional and practical
about where you spend, but that doesn’t mean you should cut fun, social
connection, exercise, and healthy food out of your life.
Being unwillingly unemployed increases your vulnerability to
anxiety and depression. Make sure you still connect with friends, exercise, and
eat healthily. Besides, being a healthy well- adjusted unemployed dude is
better than being an unemployed shut out .
8. Be nice to yourself in the process.
Rejection doesn’t always mean that you’re not good enough.
The only thing being negative can get you is a pity party.
Every time you experience a rejection, say to yourself what
you’d say to a friend when you console them. Offer yourself some encouraging words.
Matuson says, “Cynicism and other negative attitudes come
across in job interviews — and even in letters — and those attitudes can sink
your chances.” Meaning, your negative outlook can reflect into your letters and
job interviews and might turn off employers.
Matuson’s advice: Surround yourself with positive people,
and, if possible, as many employed (or unemployed-but-positive) people as you
can.
9. Help fellow job seekers.
Reach out and help fellow job seekers during your time of
transition. View this time as a time to learn about yourself and others.
Trnka said, “Networking and finding a job is not one-way.
The more you engage with others and assist them — whether it’s emotional
support, being a reference, or making a connection — the more you will feel
empowered in your search, gain credibility, and receive assistance in return.”
Remember these and keep a positive outlook. It radiates and
attracts the same kind of people and opportunities. Don’t be afraid to go out
there and have some fun in the process.
Expand your network and help fellow job seekers out. Most
importantly, don’t make it all about you. Take this free time to learn about
the company you wish to apply in and use this time productively.
Originally posted in aly.palawanblogger.com
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