Let’s face the cold, hard facts – looking for a job these days isn’t the same as it was five or ten years ago. So why are the job-seeking masses still employing the same methods now as they would have in the past?
“Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” Albert Einstein
Let’s begin…
1. Understand what you’re up against. As of April 2012, the unemployment rate was 8.1% and the number of unemployed persons was 12.5 million. Keep these facts in mind as you apply for jobs and the need to not want to be a statistic will provide the motivation you need to keep going.
2. Know your industry. Know the facts. Research your industry to learn about the current state of and any signs of future growth or decline.
3. Is there a chance your job can be done by a computer in the near future? We know you’re not a fortune teller but use your judgement to prepare yourself for a workload shift.
4. Is there a chance your job can be out-sourced in the near future? Same as above.
5. Are you cool? It’s not okay to not be interested in new technologies and methods. You need to be aware to be relevant. Stay up-to-date on what’s happening by reading a variety of publications including trade magazines and blogs about your specialty or industry.
6. Keep in mind, there’s always someone out there who is younger, cheaper and hungrier than you.
7. Don’t just send your resumé and wait. Get out there! Make a phone call, send a follow-up email. Don’t be a stalker; but don’t be forgotten.
8. Does your resumé still look like your college career counselor made it for you? Time for an update.
9. Take advantage of the variety of ways in which you can apply for a job. Use online job boards and recruiters to your advantage; and don’t overlook the power of social media. Most brands post their hottest jobs on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
10. Last, but not least, the oldest job search advice that will always be relevant – update your old skills and learn new skills. The more you know, the more you grow.
