QUESTION: I have been looking for work since the first of February. I have a graduate degree and 10 years of work experience. Although I’ve sent 3-5 cover letters and resumes out per day over the last three weeks, I haven’t had any responses. I followed your tips. I am not sure what else to do. Do you have any advice for me? Sincerely, Molly
ANSWER: Molly, thanks for writing. You sound like an accomplished professional who would make a desirable job candidate for any employer. But I'm not surprised that you haven't heard back yet. Finding a job is hard work—you know that already—and it often takes longer than we would like.
Here are some tips that anyone searching for a job should consider:
1. Practice patience
Generally speaking, finding a job takes weeks or months, not a few days. Based on what I've seen with my clients during the past year, from application submission to first day on the job, the average search is taking roughly four to six months. And higher level positions take even longer than that. Among career counselors, the general rule of thumb is that you should expect to spend one month searching for every $10,000 in salary. So if you're seeking a $40,000 salary, expect the process to take approximately four months.
2. Follow up
Particularly in today's job market, employers often receive hundreds of applications for every opening. As a former HR professional, I can tell you that it can take a long time to sort through the pile of paper. So don't take it personally if you don't get an immediate response (and brace yourself: many employers never respond).
That said, the strong job seeker will follow up to ensure that the employer received her application. If two or three weeks goes by and you haven't heard anything, politely follow up with an email or phone call. Explain that you applied for a specific position, citing the job title, date, and method of application. Courteously ask for an update on the position and the status of your application.
3. Focus your search
Now, before you send out another resume, take a step back and think. What type of job do you want? In what industry? What skills do you have to offer? Clarity equals focus, and having both will absolutely streamline your search. The more careful you are about researching and selectively applying to jobs that you are qualified for, the better chance you have of being hired.
Avoid the buckshot approach: don't apply to every job listing you find. It's a waste of time (for both you and the employer) and it usually only increases your potential for rejection.
Instead, invest your time in laying the groundwork for success. Refine your focus and tell your friends, family, and acquaintances (your network) what you are looking for. They’ll be more apt to remember you and your specific goals and skills.
4. Cast the widest net(work)
The most effective job search strategy includes several approaches—not just applying to online job listings. Research the searching methods that are most effective for people in your industry. Talk to people who have landed similar jobs; find out how they did it. Job fairs, temp work, letter campaigns, employee referral programs, professional associations and networking are all tools that should be a part of your arsenal. Be honest with yourself: are you doing everything that you can to find your next job?
Click here to ASK AMY a question.
Amy is offering workshops on specific career topics this spring. For more information visit: www.heartatwork.biz.
Saturday Workshop Series
Effective Resumes: Saturday, April 19
Job Search Strategy: Saturday, April 26
Advanced Interviewing: Saturday, May 3
Informational Interviewing: Saturday, May 10
Time: 10 - 11:30 am
Place: Heart at Work, Yarmouth
Cost: $30 for each workshop, $100 for series of four
Register: Contact Amy Jaffe at 846-0644 or amy@heartatwork.biz
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