The Job Hunting Toolbox

Getting a job or new job is on the minds of many. It’s important to have tools so you are not just throwing slop to the wall. So here are my tool recommendations for getting and keeping the job you really want.

Plan it:
1. Begin by architecting the position you want and why. Visualize it. How big is the company? What are your responsibilities? What are your authority boundaries? How much money do you make? Who do you work for? How do they coach you? Why did they choose you? Visualize and believe it. Be specific. Not just once, every day, multiple times. Start your morning with a quiet moment. Consider starting the day with a meditation. I’m talking about just 5 minutes of uninterrupted quiet time. Relax, focus and believe.
Now for the easy part:
• Identify what companies are good matches for your skill sets. Why?
• I know you want to apply for everything and if you must, do it. But don’t spend a lot of time on it.
~Focus your search on companies and opportunities you are really interested and qualified for.
• How? If you are responding to an ad, so are 150 other people. Let’s start with the fact that companies have often identified who they want to hire before they run an ad. So responding to an ad is plan “B”. Knowing this, you’ve got to make every effort to have your resume be reviewed by a person.
~Do this by closely reading the ad. Pull out key words and concepts. Make sure these words are in your resume and the concepts are clearly defined. It may mean you need to rewrite your resume. Remember, you're going for quality, not the throw it to the wall and see if it sticks.
~If the ad asks for salary information, please provide it. Sometimes your resume will be passed over for not providing what they want. If you’re uncomfortable providing money, quote a range of what you’ve earned the past few years. When you’re uncomfortable taking money, it can make others feel that you don’t believe you are worth what you have been paid. Would you look at a house that is a bit out of your desired price range? Maybe. It’s a good way to see what your money can buy. So be able to articulate your value proposition.

Hammer it: Companies will often post ads on their website and not run ads. Watch the websites of those companies that are great matches for you. Find advocates within your target companies that keep an eye out for you, make introductions, etc.

Level it: Let’s face it, looking for a job is a lot of work and stress. Take care of yourself to stay healthy; walk, workout, bike, etc. Exercise will stimulate your mind and create more energy. Keep your energy and attention level high all the time. It’s not about short bursts of focused job hunting. It’s about consistently doing the work.

Measure it: What are you doing that is working? Do more of it. Focus on the position you will get. Our daughter is 5’4” and passionate about playing basketball. I tried to tell her that she may be done growing. Her response, “Mom, always be optimistic!” She’s right. My job is to feed her passion. Be your own best friend. Support your efforts and recognize the success you have.

Good luck in your search. Always be optimistic!