Searching for a Job
Going the Distance in Today’s Market
After you’ve prepared yourself with the necessary skills and written your stellar resume, there’s going to be long stretches of time where it’s going to be easy to psych yourself out. When looking for a job, get ready to go the distance.
When I was in high school, I was on the track team. I wasn’t much of a runner. I was out on the track running the 880 in my high top Converse. I sprinted the first lap. I pushed ahead of everyone else. Something happened. I didn’t pace myself. I fell behind and eventually came in last place. You have to know your stride. You have to pace yourself. That was an important lesson that resonates with me today…. especially when it comes to a job search!
According to Indeed.com, the average amount of time to get a new job is about nine weeks. This is taking into account sending out applications, and waiting for the callback etc. I suspect it’s a lot longer than nine weeks depending on the type of work you are looking for and your circumstances.
In order to go the distance, just like with a long distance runner, you have to be physically fit and mentally ready. What does that look like for a person searching for a job?
Get help with your resume
Have someone review what you have written on your resume. Ask a 5th grader read it. If they understand what you are trying to say, then that is half the battle. Highlight your achievements, especially if you can talk about dollars that you have saved your employer or something tangible that you have done that is outstanding. Have someone proofread your resume for errors. Formatting is key. A poorly formatted resume will repel the reader. Think about hiring a professional resume writer to assist. The money spent will be well worth the cost.
Use social media to establish your brand
You may be asking, “Brand? I’m just trying to get a job, not create a brand”. The more you work on your brand, the more people will start to notice. Networking on LinkedIn will help you find others in the type of work that you are looking for. Don’t underestimate the power of a good connection.
Go directly to companies
Reach out to companies and ask if they have any positions in the area that you are looking. Even if they don’t have an open position now, they may consider you in the future if one opens up.
Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback
Make sure you’re on the right track. Ask for an informational interview with someone in the field. What qualifications do you need to do the work? They will likely give you candid information if they know that you are looking to them for their expertise.
Are your skills up to date?
If you’re missing a key certificate in the area of your job search, work to complete it. You’ll benefit by being able to showcase your efforts. Look for webinars and conferences to brush up on your knowledge.
After all the preparation, there may be long periods of quiet. How do you stay on track with your eye on the prize of finding new employment? Even if you do everything perfectly, there may be frustrating periods where you have to wait.
Zen-like calm is important to go the distance. Set up scaffolding in your day as guidance. That could look like focusing on one task at a time or walking every morning before you start your day. Being mindful and living in the moment of now will help. Regrets are thoughts rooted in the past. Anxiety is rooted in the future. Living in the present will get you through this period of waiting. Dream about your future self reaching your goals but continue with your preparation. The gift of time in self-reflection will help you center yourself. Being physically active will help. All of this is good.
Linda Salzer is a Senior Network Engineer working to pivot towards a technical Product Manager position.
