New Job?

The month of May is devoted to NEW ideas and opportunities.  I’ve had many clients who want to find a new job.  Embarking on a job search can be a daunting task.  Sometimes it’s hard to know where to begin.  Here are some tips to get you started.

Tip 1:  The resume.  This seems to be a stumbling block for many.  The key is to start writing.  For each position you’ve held, identify what was unique about your contribution in the position.  How did the organization benefit from your performance?  Be specific as possible, use numbers to define the difference that you made.  Stay away from describing in minute detail your day to day activities – in most cases your job title will tell the reader what the job was about.  Readers of your resume want to know the successes you brought to the organization.

Tip 2:  The cover letter.  Job descriptions are written by humans.  The first few sentences of any job description contain what is most important to the hiring manager.  Make sure your cover letter shows your experience in these areas.  Personally I prefer bullet points to ensure the reader of your cover letter has easy access to this information.  Use the precise language contained in the job description to demonstrate why you’re perfect for the position you’re applying for.

Tip 3:  The search.  There are many websites that post jobs.  You can read through thousands of job descriptions to see what might peak your interest.  When you find the type of job that you think might be of interest, find others that currently hold that job.  Talk to them about their experience with the job, how they found the position.  In this case you are interviewing them to gain information and advice.  Most people are willing to share and help you along your path.

Tip 4:  Strategically apply.  If you’ve ever looked at resumes that have been submitted for positions you’re trying to fill, you can spot those that are applying for anything and everything.  Hiring managers are looking for individuals that are interested in a position, are qualified and would be a great fit.  Ensure you are applying for positions that you are interested in, qualified for and would be a fit for you.  Don’t waste others time with your desperate attempts to find any job at all.

Tip 5:  Customize.  Your resume and cover letter are simply marketing tools to peak the hiring manager’s interest.  Make sure the first 15% of your resume addresses the experience that they are looking for.   Your cover letter should highlight what you can bring to the new organization.

Tip 6:  Contact information.  Use an email address and phone number that is yours, not at your current company.  Your email address should be professional, not cute numbers and words.  Most companies’ email is the property of the company and not confidential just to you.  Keep your job search as confidential as possible.

Do you have any tips to share with others for a job search?  What has worked for you?  Leave your comments below.

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