4 PARADIGMS

Hiring is on the uptick. More job postings in my field are streaming in, whereas a couple of months ago, there was just a trickle. Other evidence from my friends and those in my professional networks who have been job-searching are now reporting that they’re out on more interviews or have landed a new position. So, what’s the secret; how are they finding success in this puzzling job market?

Success comes from various sources. I’ve found that even in these tough times, there are distinctions in those who will soon be employed or who have already found jobs, which sets them apart:

• Patience – The economy is rebounding. Jobs are typically the last to follow. Employers are doing some eye-rubbing now and envisioning growth. Consider that in boom-times it takes a month of job searching for every $10K in compensation. So, if you made $75K in your previous job, it will take a good seven and a half months to find another opportunity. Now, compare that with the current job situation.

• Perseverance – Job searching takes dedication. I know it’s a difficult job market – I’m right there with you – but opportunities abound. If you’re unemployed, watching daytime TV and waiting for UI to run out; instead of selling yourself short, up-sell your skills. Use this time to consider and document the value of “you”, what you can offer to help grow a business, research prospective employers and set-up informational interviews with likely employers. I know it may seem awkward at first, but at very least you’ll establish and solidify that Picture of You: who you are, your skill set and what you can offer an employer.

• Plan – Due diligence is a daily thing. Make looking for a job your job. Dedicate time during the regular work week for your job search and application process. While you’re at it, don’t forget to schedule time to network, network, network. If you’ve been out in the market for a while, you’ve probably heard all the pluses about letting people know you’re looking for a job, but how to keep your network informed without badgering? Stay engaged to create buzz:
– Look into non-profit, volunteer opportunities. The county I live in has partnered with the Volunteer Center of the United Way to link those seeking employment with volunteerism as a path to employment. While this is typically not a money gig, this will help to build confidence, fill resume gaps and you’ll meet new people. Besides, giving back to the community is a good thing.
– Keep your skill set fresh. What needs improving? While this might be a good time to go back to grad school, even small changes can open doors to a different, positive outcome. Take a soft-skills class like public speaking – Toastmasters International is a great place to start – or a software class like any in the Adobe Creative Suite. Stimulating your mind is the key to productivity.

Let your network know what you’re working on or what “new thing” you’re doing to reinvent yourself. Now you have something to talk about.

One friend, who found her dream job recently after a lengthy search tells me, “Actually, I thought I would get a job from my networking. It turned out that the company that I am currently working for took those online applications seriously!” And further, she says, “The best thing I can tell you to do, other than continue to keep the faith and keep searching is to build upon existing skills.”

With an abundance of online job boards and offline opportunities available, while some may offer “the secret to success in this job market “ (and for only $29.95 you can find out), bottom-line: there is no secret and no single path to your next job. It’s all about you and what you chose to do with your time to make a difference. Does your job search involve the “Three P’s” – Patience, Perseverance and Plan? What have you done to challenge yourself today? Wherever you are in your job search, Comments and feedback are welcome!