It has definitely been a while and, quite frankly, I wish I could say that my search was over. But with unemployment still at a record high (despite the minuscule drop), I am not alone. The average job search being about 6 months, I am about half way through the projected average. Here's to hoping I'm on the left-side of the curve!
In the last month or so, I've been able to gather more data which has allowed me to start seeing trends in my job search. Hopefully, this data will prove valuable in shortening my job search time as I can start to really hone in on what is really working. Before I begin:
These results are not generalizable. Each person's job search is very specific to them. There are a number of variables that go into a job search and each carries different weights in terms of importance and R.O.I. I present this as an example of what has been working for me given my specific situation. Additionally, remember that none of these methods has actually resulted in an offer so they're all ineffective in the truest sense. For this reason, I am measuring success as obtaining a phone interview or more.1). Job Boards: I've seen a lot written about how useless job boards are in a job search. In my particular job search, I couldn't disagree more. One has to know how to use job boards as a tool rather than a crutch. Job boards are great for developing leads (e.g. specific jobs, names of companies, recruiting firms, etc.). Using the right job board - and I prefer aggregators like Indeed.com or Simplyhired.com - you can hunt for the job that is right for you. Of course, the next step is to apply via the method available. If your pursuit stops at this point, you will probably never hear from the company again. As soon as you hit the "apply" or "submit" button, you jump on over to LinkedIn and do some detective work to find the appropriate person with whom to follow up. Sometimes that person will be a recruiter. It's better if that person is a manager. Either way, figure out a way to connect with someone in that department, if possible, so that you can begin to be seen as a person instead of a resume. This has worked for me when I see positions that are close to what I'm seeking but maybe too senior or junior. Again, I find a person associated with that position and let them know that I am very interested in pursuing work with them if there is anything else available or something that may come up. It all comes down to being a bit of an investigator and having the appropriate means of contact. Which brings me to:
2). LinkedIn: If you don't have a LinkedIn account, get one. NOW. I am not sure how anyone is finding work in this economy with the help of LinkedIn. I am an incredibly active user and have found that this has been very valuable in my job search. Make connections! Join groups! Answer questions! All of these features get you closer to the decision makers who can ultimately get you employed. I would say that 75% of my job search success has been a direct result of LinkedIn. Networking does not always have to be in person. In fact, I have found that the face-to-face networking that I have done has had very little R.O.I. People are busy and they have their own lives to worry about. It sounds harsh, but it's true. And quite frankly, just because you know Roger in Accounting doesn't mean he can do much for your bid in Marketing beyond walking your resume over to HR. This might have worked even a year and half ago, but things are far different now. Don't get me wrong - networking is incredibly important. However, if you don't have a direct line to the hiring manager of the position that you want, your chances are very slim. I say: Why don't you be that line?
These are my top two methods that have brought me the most phone and face-to-face interviews. They can be a bit time-consuming but finding a job is my new job. And I am perfectly find with that. Currently, I am seriously being considered for 2 positions. I have been here once before and it did not pan out, but I continue to keep my hopes up and keep on truckin!
