Common job search problems and how to fix them
The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today. Franklin D. Roosevelt
When you set out to land your next dream job you most likely did the same thing everyone does; updated your resume, hit the job boards, and jazzed up your LinkedIn profile. Hopefully, all of that effort landed you a sweet job offer at a great company! If not, and job search problems have started to add stress to your life, it's time to look at your search strategy and address the little things you may have overlooked when you began looking for a better career opportunity.
Job Search Problem: Getting Past The Noise
If you’re struggling with making it out of the HR black hole and you aren’t getting called for interviews, the problem is easy to find - your resume is missing the mark.
Solution: Target Your Resume
Don’t send a generic resume to every position you apply to! Creating a targeted resume is time-consuming, but it is one resource you can control to stand out from the crowd. A targeted resume aligns with the position you’re applying to and says “Pick Me” I’m the one you’re looking for!
Job Search Problem: Finding Opportunities
If every job board looks the same and the boring job descriptions HR places online make you want to poke your eyes out with a fork- stop the madness. Simply responding to online ads, along with thousands of other applicants, is tedious.
Solution: Tap Your Network
Reach out to past colleagues, bosses, and mentors to let them know you’re looking at new opportunities. Don’t send a blanket email to everyone on your contact list. Instead, set up a lunch appointment with influencers in your network and foot the bill. Most individuals will be happy to take the time out to help you navigate your career and possibly share leads and contacts. Paying for lunch is a small gesture that may open big doors.
Job Search Problem: Losing Confidence
If you’re starting to second-guess your skills and abilities- stop! If your confidence begins to sink it will negatively impact your job search and interviews.
Solution: Engage On Social Media
Stay engaged in your job search by following career-focused social media accounts, like Mentor Happy, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Keeping up with current interview tips, motivation, and support during your job search will help you remain inspired. A job search can be draining and positive external voices will help you through the ups and downs. Simply surrounding yourself with positive vibes and ditching negative influences will make a huge impact on your stress level and attitude.
While basic in concept, these three solutions to common job search problems are easily forgotten when you are in the weeds trying to find your dream job. Remember, a job search doesn’t have to be doom and gloom. Stick to the basics, sprinkle in a few new concepts and before you know it, you’ll be off and running with a new job and a brighter future!