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Create
a self-marketing plan and a job
search log. Use a self-marketing plan to set
goals and detail what you're going to do when and how you're going to
strategically market
yourself. This plan will help you clarify the solutions
you
provide
and the way you differentiate yourself from others in the market. It is a living
document that changes as you research the
market
and talk with folks. The job search log will help you stay on track and
log what you've
done and what's next. Contact me for samples of the plan and log. Network
and
informational interview your way to the hidden job market.
75%
or more jobs are obtained by networking. So you need to get out there
and
meet people. Clearly and consistently tell everyone you know what you
are
looking for and the solution you provide, mine for information, and ask
them who they know
and
then follow up. Ask them to comment on your self-marketing plan.
Attend
job
hunting/professional functions. Attend job fairs, meetings
of
job networking groups like C-SIX, and relevant free seminars. Go to
professional
association luncheons and talks; volunteer your services, join one of
their
committees. Becoming involved with professional associations is a great
way to meet people, feel competent, add something to your
résumé, and
network,
network, network! See if your school's alumni association has
contacts
you can call or e-mail.
Join
or form
a Success Team. Becoming part of team that supports your job
search will help you stay focused, move forward, and receive creative
input.
Job hunting and career development can be a solitary activity, it's
very
helpful to have the support and input of others. You can even start
with a success team of two--just a trusted friend and you. Join
your local
one-stop association. Take advantage of the free training
and
networking this or similar Employment Development Department groups
make
available. This is primarily available to the unemployed. Find a career coach
or career counselor and enroll in career related workshops. A
good coach can help you stay focused, provide support, and give expert
input tailored to you. A coach can therefore enable you to get unstuck
and build momentum, and more quickly
achieve your goals, thus saving money, time, and reducing stress.
There are also ways to insure landing in a job that's a good fit.
Workshops
and classes can keep your skills current and enable you to explore new
opportunities and make needed transitions in a highly volatile
market.
Maximize
"Planned
Happenstance." As much as possible, remain optimistic,
curious,
persistent, flexible, and take a few risks. Get out and sample the
various
options open to you. This makes it more likely that "good luck" will
come
your way.
Create
a targeted
pitch and a well-written résumé
(and cover
letter) that
directly
focuses on the needs of the potential employer and the solutions you
provide.
Remember, they want to know what's in it for them. Emphasize the value
you add, what you accomplish, and how you do it--create your Personal Brand!
Join
Toastmasters
to hone your speaking, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Take
care of
yourself. A job hunt tends to be a mini-marathon rather
than a
sprint
and can be stressful. Maximize your ability to cope by exercising,
eating well, getting enough sleep, and participating in a spiritual
practice
(meditation, yoga, prayer, mindful stretching). Take breaks and mini
vacations
from the job search. Reward yourself for your hard work. You deserve
it!
Volunteer.
Volunteering is a great way to feel good about your self, help others,
learn new skills, network, get references, and contribute to an
organization which
might
later hire you. It's also something you can add to your résumé. Think
of yourself
as actor/actress. For some, “self-marketing” and schmoozing
don't come naturally. One way to deal with this is to pretend you're
an actor or actress playing a role in which you need to convince people
that you're confident, competent, and deserve that great job you seek.
After all, down deep you are all those things and do deserve a great
job!
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