Despite a strong job market, you may feel as if your employment search is going nowhere fast. You polished your resume, wrote a personal story in your cover letter, made contact with the hiring manager, studied for your interview and even wrote a thank-you note after your face time. What other steps should you consider?
Examine three common roadblocks that may hinder your job search. Some industries have shortages of qualified candidates, so if you fit the ideal mold of a specialized field, firms may be eager to hire you. However, sometimes you have to go the extra mile to overcome obstacles in the hiring process.
No Follow-up
Most people find out about positions through online job searches. Yet, despite matching the position qualifications, candidates frequently never hear back from online job searches.
Instead of viewing the posting as an application process, see it as an opportunity to connect with someone at the company. View the job posting as a referral to earn, as opposed to a piece of electronic data. Reach out to someone at the company. Search LinkedIn for a current employee who has a similar background as you, or find the hiring manager and make contact. Once you get to know an employee, learn about the company's actual needs for the position and ascertain whether the job still fits for you.
Multiple Interviews, Zero Offers
Several companies noticed your great qualifications, fantastic references and excellent skill set. However, multiple interviews translated into zero offers for employment. This situation represents one of the most frustrating aspects of a job search since you seem so close to getting the job of your dreams.
Examine your job interview skills. Replay the interview in your mind and even take notes to determine what you could do better in your next interview. Did you fidget in your seat? Did you mute your cellphone? Take a look at how you dressed and eliminate any distractions from your wardrobe. Did you answer each question succinctly and in a friendly, conversational manner without rambling? Perhaps you can run your performance past a job coach to get a second opinion. Sometimes, career coaches offer free consultations.
Career Changers
You may decide to change careers in the middle of your professional quest for job happiness. Modifying or expanding your job search can open an entirely new path to prosperity. However, even though you had a change of heart and you find yourself ready for a fresh start, hiring managers may notice you lack the credentials, education, certifications and skills necessary to move forward.
You might have to start at a lower, entry-level position to gain experience in your new field. Consider attending a local community college to learn basic skills for a new career. Put your most marketable skills at the top of your resume, and downplay areas of deficiency. It never hurts to ask your interviewers directly if you truly have what it takes to handle the position in front of you.
Common roadblocks in your job search do not have to turn into dead ends. Instead, see them as opportunities to learn something about yourself and your career aspirations. You may find your career more fulfilling after you invest in a little more self-evaluation.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!