20 Powerful Job Search Tips That Work

20 Powerful Job Search Tips That Work

By: Marge Powers

1. Take advantage of this career transition, and take the time to get to know who you are and what you want.

2. Do a personal and skill assessment. Understand the skills you bring to the marketplace. What are the job options that would match your skill sets. If you are unable to do this yourself, seek professional help; this is no time to go it alone.

3. Develop a strong mission statement of what you want, where you want to go, and what you want to contribute to the company. . It helps you talk about yourself in a more professional manner.

4. Network, network, network. Improve your networking techniques by getting out there. Ask people for information, advice and referrals, and follow up on each suggestion. You never know where it will lead. Be interested in people, help them out also and be generous with your time. An interested person is an interesting person. Don't forget to send thank you cards to everyone who helps you out.

5. If you are unemployed, become visible. Join alumni organizations, clubs, professional associations or volunteer. Always follow up with the people you meet. This can lead to permanent employment and widen your network. Volunteering can also fill in time gaps on your resume.

6. Take advantage of all available technology. Email, the Internet, on-line services, resources in the library, etc. Make sure all your research information is correct and current.

7. Attend job fairs and career expos for gathering information and meeting recruiters. Make sure you dress appropriately as if you were going on an interview. Be prepared with a one-minute script on yourself based on the job you are seeking and you're past accomplishments. Bring a resume and a business card too.

8. Study the newspapers and understand the local business climate. Apply to companies that are hiring and growing.

9. Understand what you can offer employers. Remember how you created value for your past employers. Research the company needs and challenges. Be prepared to tell interviewers how you can help them solve their problems.

10. It works best to target only four companies at a time. Find out about; the product, the company philosophy, who works there, the corporate culture, their mission statement, and don't forget to review their financial reports. This knowledge will help you tremendously when you are interviewed.

11. Learn the marketing concepts for re-employability. Know what are companies looking for?

12. Target the job opportunity career that you want.

13. Position yourself with a effective portfolio. Remember to memorize your one-minute script.

14. Find a way to talk about yourself that differentiates you from the competition.

15. Practive and be prepared for interviews. Do not wing it. Practice makes perfect.

16. Be assertive. Ask for what you want and need. Be clear and specific about your goals.

17. Socialize with other individuals; join a support group. This is no time to be alone.

18. Stay focused. Keep on track. Spend 8 hours a day on the job hunt process. Try not to have any assumptions or expectations about the job search. You never know what will happen.

19. Take action. Don't wait for others to help you. Do not procrastinate. Keep moving.

20. Take responsibility for your career development. Plan and empower yourself with active career planning.