Thursday, August 06, 2009
Although the task of finding a job may seem too tough to tackle, it's really quite simple when you compare it to one of your favorite pastimes: dating.
Just like burping out the alphabet or talking about your ex at the dinner table are sure-fire ways to blow a date, there are some things you just don't want to do when trying to find a job. I found that if you apply these dating guidelines to the job search, you're sure to find a dream job that's a perfect fit for you.
1. Don't be afraid of rejection.
It's going to happen. You have to kiss a lot of frogs to find a prince/princess. Just like dates, there will be some companies that just aren't that into you. Don't get discouraged; the right one is sure to come along. Rejection is just part of the game.
2. Don't use the same old line.
"Do you have a map? Because I am getting lost in your eyes." It's been done before! Just like a good pick-up line, a cover letter should leave the recruiting director begging to know more. No one is going to read a four paragraph version of your resume. For your cover letter, short, catchy, and non-cheesy is the best way to go.
3. Don't tell them what you think they want to hear.
Just like a smart date, recruiting directors can see through your answers that are too good to be true. Your date won't buy the fact that for fun you save baby whales from haphazard environments, just like the recruiting director won't buy the fact that being a perfectionist is your worst "weakness."
4. Don't be a stalker.
There is a fine line between being persistent and being a stalker. If the recruiting director hasn't gotten back to you, don't call every 5 minutes and then hang up. They probably have caller ID, and they're officially scared of you. After calling once, leave them a message telling them how to reach you.
5. Don't rely on just who YOU know.
Your friends and contacts can match you up with a great date AND they can get your foot in the door during your job search. Tap into as many connections as you can. Network, network, network. Networking is the best way AND the easiest way to find a job. You never know who your friends' friends may know!
If you keep these tips in mind, the job search won't be half as grueling. The job search is tough, but it definitely pays off when you find the right match.
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Posted by Brad Karsh on August 06, 2009 at 08:06 AM
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