How to turn your job search into a full time job

…Job search and unemployment can be some of the most discouraging and ego-smashing things a person could ever experience…

Someone once told me, “Looking for a job IS a full-time job. You need to adopt that mentality.” Here are some suggestions on how to chart your course, add some structure to your day, and give yourself definable goals to give you that sense of order you had within the workplace.

1. Read articles weekly

 

When you are unemployed or out of work, it is easy to feel you are getting left behind on industry trends and issues. It’s amazing when you have a clear command of what’s going on in the world how easy it is to find opportunities to talk about what you’ve read or learned.

2. Attend networking events weekly

 

Shy? Get over it. The ocean is full of sharks right now, and you need to be one of them. That means getting out of the house, and getting out to networking events.  Meet people, learn something, and have fun.

3. Volunteer regularly

 

Volunteering can provide exceptional opportunities to network, learn new skills, become a known quantity within an organization and even find out about industry or company job openings before they are even posted. Plus, you’ll feel good while doing it!

4. Join member organizations

 

If you have a target industry, chances are that there is some kind of related trade association or membership organization that you could join. The benefit of these organizations is that your involvement can add ‘gravitas’ to your credentials.

5. Talk to friends regularly

 

Who do friends know? People. Employed people. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your entire network. The key is to tap into your social circle and ‘refresh’ your connections. You never know what might happen.

6. Follow up on sent applications

 

One of the biggest failures of job seekers is they are constantly looking forward for the next job opening to apply for that they don’t go back and follow up on the positions for which they’ve already applied. Sometimes, the position opening didn’t turn out to be the right fit for your skills. But if you treat the hiring manager or the human resource representative right, you could impress them in a very good way. That could put you on the “A” list for other jobs that come open.

For more advice For more information on job searching and up - skilling contact Pitman Training Waterford on 051 574136 or visit our website www.pitman-training.ie/waterford.  

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”–Wayne Gretzky