If you’ve been job hunting for a while with no results to show, it may be time to retreat and refocus a bit. The fact that your job search is not yielding results is a clear indication that something is off or you need a new approach. If you think a break will only slow you down, think again. While you rest from your job search, there are four productive things you can be doing to make sure your next go-around is successful!
Address the obstacles you are encountering. What’s tripping you up? If you’re unsure, take time to consider where the roadblocks are occurring. Honestly evaluate your fit to the jobs you are seeking. Weigh your skills, experience and education against the criteria listed in each job description. This exercise will help you identify the areas that may be potential obstacles in your job search. Finally, make a list of any qualifications you lack and begin addressing those areas.
Get others involved. An estimated 80 percent of jobs are obtained through networking. That’s huge! While you break from your job search, make networking a top priority. There are many ways to network, from industry associations, chamber events and job fairs, to volunteer work and professional networking sites such as LinkedIn. Don’t forget to include recruiters in your networking initiatives. Job placement firms like Spherion already have relationships with the local companies you are pursuing.
Revisit your resume. Sometimes, it’s not your skills or your networking efforts that are lacking—it’s your resume. In order for you to gain the attention of employers, you need to stand out of the pile. That means scrap the one-size-fits-all approach and tailor your resume to the specific requirements of the position you are seeking. Review each job description and make sure the keywords and criteria found in it are top selling points on your resume.
Create a plan of action. Getting organized and intentional about your goals is another way to make big strides in your job search. Set goals for yourself each week that will move you closer to your ideal job. Be sure to include skill development, networking and resume updates in your plan. Then, post it somewhere easily seen and track your progress each day. A personal career plan will help you stay motivated as you see your progress and get closer to your goal.
With a fresh perspective, a stronger network, a sharper resume and a clear plan of action, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running in job search that yields results!