Worried About Finding a Job? Keep Things in Perspective

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Looking around, it may seem like getting a job in this economy is about as easy as climbing Mount Everest. Unemployment is up, more talented people are losing their jobs and the thought of a job hunt is pretty daunting for most professionals, especially those who have not needed to look for a job in a long time.

However, I believe that keeping a positive attitude and taking advantage of all of all available tools at their disposal can help job seekers be successful, even in seemingly bleak times. In her blog for Examiner.com, Heather Huhman reports some heartening findings.

For example, news isn’t all that bad if you have a college degree. Rob McGovern, CEO Jobfox says the unemployment rate is only 3.1 percent for professionals with college degrees.

Heather reports on McGovern’s recommendations for students and recent graduates looking for work. I think these tips apply to all job seekers. (Commentary is my own.)

1. Listen to feedback. Read your past employment reviews and ask people what they think you should highlight as your best qualities. Ask friends, but also ask colleagues and people who know you in a variety of different personal and professional settings. Take their suggestions to heart and think about what you have to offer.

2. Stay on top of emerging trends in your industry of choice. Set “Google alerts” for your industry and organizations you are targeting for your search. Keep your eyes and ears open for information that you can use during networking conversations and interviews.

3. Work on basic people skills. McGovern notes that, “Study after study suggests that warm smiles and firm handshakes go a long way in creating lasting first impressions.” I’ve written about the importance of “soft skills.” Don’t forget that getting a job isn’t only about the sum of your skills, but the way you present them! (For a list of soft skills, click HERE and scroll to the bottom.)

4. Attitude adjustment. A positive personality can go a long way. Be confident and able to concisely describe what you have to offer. You’ll be surprised how important your attitude is in your job search.

5. Keep your perspective. Everything I read reminds me that, even in a recession, jobs still need to get done. There are jobs out there. Be sure you are well prepared to compete for them!

Many clients come to me after a long, bleak search that resulted in no interviews. They are surprised to realize that their lack of success was not due to factors beyond their control (such as age, experience or the job market itself), but because they were not marketing their skills properly. We can help you shorten your search! Learn more about Keppie Careers at www.keppiecareers.com.

photo by bartamimi

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Comments

December 3rd, 2008: Erika with Qvisory Says:

I think the advice to keep your perspective is very important. It’s really hard, but employers can always tell an enthusiastic and upbeat job seeker from a bitter burned-out one. Your attitude really does make a difference.
December 3rd, 2008: Miriam Salpeter Says:

Erika – It is true that it can be difficult, but valuable in the long run to stay positive. Thanks for reading and commenting!