What Works: Job Hunting? Tips to Keep Frustration at Bay

One of the rock star recruiters in my recruitment division, Heather, had a thought provoking question for me. She asked me about gun-shy job applicants. Lately, she had faced applicants who were plain tired. They had lost their fire.

After so many applications, first calls, and even interviews leading to nothing, they weren’t excited to speak to a recruiter. Even though we had a real opportunity, there had been many “real opportunities” before. As a result, the energy was gone.

Boy oh boy do I understand! In fact, if you think about it, job hunting is a lot like dating. It’s a vulnerable process where you put all you are out there in hopes of finding a match. Rejection, or perceived rejection, can be painful. Over time, it’s draining. Non-opportunity works both ways. The job seeker can go on an interview to discover a position isn’t as fantastic as it looked when they applied. Too many of those and they start to wonder if their position is even out there. Yep. It’s a lot like dating.

So, if you are looking for a job (or know someone who is), today’s column is for you.

Be clear in what you want: One issue I run across with job seekers is they use one resume for every position.

Although generalists can do a lot, often a generalist resume won’t float to the top of the stack. Multi-talented individuals don’t get called for a specialty if it isn’t communicated. Take the time to create resumes for each type of position you want. If your answer is, “I want anything” start being clear and targeted in what you want so you can go after it.

Understand recruiters are on your side: The recruiter is your friend. If they are a headhunter, even more so because they only get paid if you get hired. They want to move you forward. It’s important to understand the types of recruiters, so you know who you are talking to.

Some work for the company and are not headhunters. They get a salary. Others recruit on contract for hiring companies. Still others are a few layers away from the hiring manager. They all have one common denominator. They are looking to fill a position. They could fill it with you.

You have to kiss a lot of frogs: Network, connected on LinkedIn, apply, talk to recruiters – every action you take brings you closer to a position you will love. Here’s the trick. Keep taking action! Treat every call, interview, and application as a connection, an opportunity to learn.

Refusing interviews, even for lower positions, may result in missing an opportunity. They may interview you for a lower position. Then they state they would like to keep you on file for a higher position down the road. You don’t even get in the running if you don’t go on the interview. So go.

I notice I inadvertently created an acronym, BUY. But, it’s true. If you don’t take those actions, an employer won’t BUY YOU as an employee.

If you are looking for a job, in any state, email your resume to succeed@whatworkscoaching.com and we will see what we have. If you have lost your career confidence and feel a coach would help, you can claim a complimentary 30-minute consultation at www.whatworkscoaching.com.

The point is this. Take action! Job hunting can be frustrating. Hiring can be, too, and I will discuss that in a future column. But the important thing to remember is the only way you lose is by giving up. So get out there, network, send resumes, and let people know you are looking. Open yourself up to opportunity and it will come in unexpected ways. I believe in you.

KEEP LEARNING. KEEP GROWING.
Ongoing: Motivation Monday with Diane Dye Hansen at Adams Hub for Innovation from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Email grow@adamshub.com to schedule an appointment).

June 14, 2017: Entrepreneurs Assembly at Adam’s Hub for Innovation, inside The Studio. 5:30 pm, free mastermind group.

June 20, 2017: “From Idea to Action” Professional Saleswomen Network (PSN), Living the Good Life, 11:30 a.m.




Coming Summer 2017: 10 Steps to Business Success Workshop – 6-week online class – Sign up here for the What Works for Inspiration newsletter to receive details when available.

What Works Coaching

Diane Dye Hansen is the Chief Inspiration Officer of What Works Coaching, an individual and organizational coaching and consulting firm based in Carson City. She has 20 years of experience working with top corporations, growing businesses, motivated entrepreneurs, and individuals hungry for a fresh start. Diane holds a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Marketing from Cal State San Bernardino. She is also a candidate for a Master’s degree in Communications Management from the University of Southern California. Her column appears every Monday, and sometimes Tuesday, in Carson Now.