How to Troubleshoot Job Searches
Finding a job can be a frustrating experience, but there are quick and easy ways to troubleshoot your job search process. Update your resume and cover letter and customize it to fit each job you apply for. Target your search to positions that match your skills instead of sending out mass resumes. Ask friends and colleagues for assistance networking and consider volunteering in your field to make new contacts.
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Instructions
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Expand your search to a variety of specialized search boards and recruiters. For example, if you're a writer, look at sites that specialize in editorial fields, such as MediaBistro.com or Ed2010.com. If you're a graphic designer, art director or creative director, search on a specialized site for your field such as CreativeGroup.com.
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Customize your cover letter and resume to each job. You may find tweaking every correspondence to be tedious, but it's necessary for success. Read through the job description carefully and highlight your relevant experience accordingly. If you're applying for a position that requires teaching, emphasis your training and tutoring experience.
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Keep your cover letter conversational. A recruiter reads cover letters all day long from potential candidates. Give him a reason to engage and give your correspondence a second look. Refrain from using "Dear Sir" and address your email or letter to a real person. Read your cover letter aloud to see if it flows; ideally, you want it to sound like you're describing your expertise and qualifications with a friendly acquaintance.
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Network by asking friends and colleagues in your industry to meet every few weeks over coffee or dinner to discuss leads. Update your LinkedIn profile and other social networking sites and let everyone know you're looking for work.
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Practice interviewing with friends and colleagues until you feel at ease. Ask your practice interviewers to critique you and give you pointers on how to remain at ease, how to speak more distinctly about your credentials and how to answer difficult questions such as discussing your weaknesses.
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Tips & Warnings
Volunteer in your industry to keep your credentials fresh and network with new people.
Never pay a headhunter or recruiter to find work.
References
Resources
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