Obviously “success” in this case is finding employment! Searching for a job is not just a hit-and-miss proposition. It involves planning, patience, record keeping, maintaining a positive attitude, resourcefulness, and networking.
Planning
Planning for your next job is important. Figure out what you absolutely do not want to do. That eliminates many of the possible jobs for which you will apply! Decide upon your one or two “dream jobs” and then develop a list of good back-ups or acceptable alternatives.
Salary could be one of the elements in your plan. Benefits and other perks may figure into the formula as well. Job location and availability of convenient, affordable parking, wear and tear on your care, and cost of gas and tolls are certainly important considerations. Also, the availability of public transportation, if applicable, and any other factors that will impact your decision about whether or not to accept a position should be listed in your plan.
Patience
Do not expect to find a job right away. The process could take weeks or even months. You will need to decide in advance how long you are willing to hold out for an ideal job and when you need to revisit your plan and begin considering your back-ups. Interviewers often tell you they will be making a decision by X date or within X weeks. What they are stating is a best-case scenario. Seldom does the time line that actually plays out the same one that is indicated in the interview. Don't be discouraged if you don't hear from the interviewer within the time frame they indicated.
Record-keeping
Keep meticulous records of all aspects of your job search. Keep a journal of the jobs for which you apply and the date you applied, including the job title and the name of the company and contact person. Indicate in the journal whether you emailed the company or applied on-line or sent a cover letter and hard copy of your resume.
If you are called for an interview, note the date and time of the scheduled interview and with whom you'll be meeting. After the interview, note the date by which the interviewer told you a decision will be made. Also jot down any comments or information you gleaned during the interview.
Write a thank you note and check off in your journal the date you sent the note.
Positive Attitude
Keeping a positive attitude is crucial to your job search process. If you get discouraged, that attitude will show through on interviews and may be misinterpreted. If you are offered a job that is not exactly what you want or for a lesser salary, stall them if you can and rejoice that you at least have “back-up” opportunity!
Be positive about your skills and abilities, as well as your personal attributes. When you appear to be self-confident, the interviewer senses that you are a capable and qualified candidate.
Never give up! The right job is out there for you.
Resourcefulness and Networking
Tell everyone you know you are looking for a job. Give all your friends and associates copies of your resume and ask them to pass it along.
If you are not offered a job, ask the interviewer if they can suggest other companies where you can apply. Most HR managers are part of a vast network of HR managers form companies all over town.
Join a “leads” club or group. This is a more formal networking group that meets and associates with one another for the specific purpose on enhancing their business.
Register with no-fee employment agencies. Let the agency do some of the legwork for you in finding jobs for which you are qualified.
Plan for success, have patience throughout the process, keep meticulous records, maintain a positive attitude, network and use every resource available as you search for a job. Good luck!
