The arrival of spring signals the start of a new season, and if you’re searching for a job, it‘s a great time to clear the cobwebs in your job search.
If you’ve been hunting for a while with no success, it’s particularly important to recognize that you can’t keep doing the same things and expect different results — so invest a little time in some spring cleaning, and give yourself a brand new outlook going forward.
Here are my favorite tips for tidying up your job search this spring:
Keep It Fresh
Searching for a job is hard work. While you may be feeling weary of the process, be careful not to let it show in your search. Keep your attitude positive and demonstrate your interest and passion for the opportunity by being well-prepared and asking insightful questions. Step away and review your materials from a different perspective, making changes and updates accordingly.
Re-Energize Your Search
Get out of the rut you’re in by re-invigorating your search. Review your target list and add new companies to approach. Research those companies and identify contacts for informational interviews. Talk to people about how to best leverage your skills and experience in the field you’re pursuing.
Being prepared helps you demonstrate more energy in your interviews and networking. Carefully research the companies and build your network in those companies.
Hone Your Interview Skills
If you’re getting interviews but no offers, it’s time for some fine-tuning. Identify common interview questions, as well as those you’ve already experienced. Practice writing out your answers and delivering the responses out loud. If possible, identify a resource to conduct a mock interview, and ask for extensive feedback.
Videotape the session and watch yourself. Do you smile? Is your eye contact strong? Does your body language send a different message than your words? Listen to your answers. Are they crisp and to the point? Do they convey your knowledge of the company and your passion for this opportunity? Do you provide strong examples for the behavioral questions?
Interviewers are focused on your transferrable skills and your fit with their team. Help them see the value you bring by being well-prepared for your interview.
Fine-Tune Your Cover Letters
Are you sending out lots of letters but not receiving interviews? If so, it’s time to review your cover letters. Is each one truly customized to the position? Do you demonstrate to the employer how you can address their specific needs and add value?
Remember, it’s not about what you want; it’s about how you can help the employer. Is your letter full of “I”s? Your cover letter needs to make the company want to meet you for an interview. And, above all, be absolutely sure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
Network Like Crazy
Maybe you’ve grown complacent in your search. Don’t hide behind your computer and continue to submit online applications to no avail. The single most important thing you can do in your job search is networking. Get out there and identify new contacts at your target companies. Attend professional association meetings. Meet people in a variety of ways and learn what they do and what they like about their companies.
You’ll identify career boosters along the way who can support your efforts. When that dream job finally posts, it makes a huge difference to have an inside supporter who can pass your resume and a recommendation to the hiring manager. Networking delivers results, so heed my rallying cry, “Go forth and network!”
Try Something New
The very definition of insanity? Doing the same things and expecting different results. Instead of getting caught in that vicious cycle, try a new source of networking contacts, attend an event for the first time, explore different opportunities to utilize your skills and experience in a different way. Experiment with something new each week for the next few months and see what you learn from the experience. Continue to fine-tune your job search based on what you learn.
As we all “spring forward” this season, keep in mind that it’s the perfect time for a fresh start in your job search. Take advantage of this newfound momentum to refocus your energy and revise your tools and approach, and you’ll be well on your way to finding yourself positioned for success!
How can you re-energize your job search?
Image: Flickr
