Job Search Secrets

The basics of effective job search have not changed, sure tools and social networking, online applicant tracking, search engine optimization, and resume blasting services, etc.. might have complicated the search..

However, the bulk of jobs are still achieved through networking, whether the lead is generated through traditional or nontraditional means, the resume is still a vehicle to opening or closing doors. Being one who prefers doors openings of opportunity, here are some ideas to hedge your options. Why not deploy every resource at your disposal to make that impression that gets you the jobs you want?

A few suggestions before sending your resume:

Do	Don’t
1. Keep CURRENT: refresh your network and your brand . Maintain a current resume, with key word search alignment to your job profile. Keep in contact with references and let them know your objectives. 3. If the recruiting site offer a web based form, fill it out, this helps to target in on ideal job fit, compensation and geographic preference.	2. Don’t end a resume without a cover letter– If we have to choose virus or resume, most don’t open the unsolicited attachment. Besides, it lets you sell yourself, and P.S. it works! 4. Don’t make unchecked assumptions of interest or disinterest. The only bad question is the one left unasked.

On Your Mark

• Prepared your Elevator Pitch and Career Marketing Materials.
• Checked your Resume Key Words for Currency to the market you desire to work in.
• Checked your Reference’s contacts are current (check out Plaxo for help), and updated your endorsements

Get Set

• Spell checked your resume and cover letter, all portfolio materials.
• Assemble a resume review dream team– someone in the field you desire to work, a resume expert, and/or a recruiter for input.
• Updated your address book, day planner, or contact information.
• Refreshed your social networking profile with links to the resume/endorsements.

Go!

• Create momentum, don’t stop after each activity.. Do this until you are working your dream job.
• Sell your skills, not your desperation. Whatever the reason you are looking for work, optimism will do more for your spirit, your search, and the impressions you make on others than fear or pessimism.
• For Best Practices, connections to career coaches, resume writers and recruiters… Join the Helping Friends Networks that help you meet those needs as you recognize your career goals and dreams:
• Job Leads (Recruiter, Career Coach and Job Seekers Network)
• Career Coach (Low volume, tips and links library)
• Telecommuter Professionals

In the spirit of creating the jobs of tomorrow, sometime late tonight, click the logo in the left corner and check out our current jobs.

If you would like a bit of extra feedback on your resume, fill out your Candidate Profile, Resume Details, References, etc, then contact me, and I will add you to our ‘extra care’ resume program. Will offer feedback to people who need to find a job but have not been getting the results they need, or a good service for people who are ready to make a career change, but don’t have alot of time to spend on the ’search’ portion. This service requires candidates to provide a LinkedIn Profile, a complete New Candidate profile, Resume, and References so we can really help to help you.

Coming SOON: Job Search Technology.

We have had requests for a refresh on our Job Search Technology Solutions. Please participate in a poll open on Helping Friends Jobs Network assessing what preferences job seekers have for keeping current. We will share what technology has helped and what technology was well, NOT so effective.

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