Best Practices for a Job Search in 2011
Even as the economy begins to show signs of recovery, 2011 will still be marked with higher than usual unemployment levels. With the rate hovering between nine and 10%, there are still many unemployed Americans looking for work.
New in 2011, however, is that personal career satisfaction is driving more job seekers into the job market. According to a survey conducted by Aerotek, 42% of those currently looking for a job are doing so not because they are between jobs, but because they want to advance their career or they are dissatisfied with their current position — an increase from previous years. With an increased numbers of job seekers, and a limited number of jobs, there is even more competition in the job market. In order to have a more successful and productive job search, it is important to keep in mind the following tips.
1. Take a less conventional approach
Rather than relying on what has worked in the past, it will be necessary to take different steps to find a position in a highly-competitive job market. Taking a job outside of your career track to supplement income may be a way to stand out amongst the competition. While only 32% said they were willing to take a job outside of their career track to supplement income, according to the same survey, it is still good to consider how a full or part-time job may provide a different skill set that sets you apart from other applicants. It can also help fill a hole in your resume to improve your chances of getting an interview or job offer. For instance, if you were previously employed as a bank teller, you could transfer those skills to a customer service position for a financial services company rather than waiting for another bank teller position to open. This will not only build your industry knowledge, but will also add different job experiences that might differentiate you from other job seekers.
2. Know what you’re willing to negotiate
Whether you are employed or unemployed, it is important to set standards for your job search. Aerotek found that 73% of respondents said they would accept a position that offers a lower salary to secure a job that aligns with their career track. You should know what your trade-offs are when accepting a new position. If you are willing to take a pay cut, what added benefits must there be to make it worthwhile to you — more flexible work hours, tuition reimbursement or reduced stock options? You should also know what sacrifices you are willing to make for an increase in pay — longer commute time, longer hours, etc.
3. Do your homework
It is important to conduct research to better understand the industry in which you are seeking a job. Companies are looking for experts, so take the time to educate yourself about the industry and its trends. Interviewers also expect potential employees to possess at least a basic level of knowledge about the hiring company. The company website and news articles provide a wealth of knowledge about a potential employer.
4. Identify skill sets and potential industries
Before starting a job search, it is critical to identify the industry, or industries, of interest. Take into account the economy’s effect on the industry and seek out industries that are hiring. Opportunities continue to exist for healthcare jobs, manufacturing jobs and energy jobs. If you can understand and determine the best way to market your expertise within the industry, you will stay ahead of the competition.
For example, are you experienced in an industry that has been hit particularly hard by the economic downtown such as construction? If yes, think about other industries with openings where you could apply your skill sets. For example, can you take your purchasing experience in construction and apply it to purchasing/procurement for a healthcare organization? Perhaps your engineering background could be transferred to a relevant position in the energy sector?
5. Network
These days there are a multitude of options for networking. A successful job search utilizes as many relevant options as possible. Most colleges and universities have a career center that helps alumni connect with other alumni in desired industries or career paths. Industry associations are another important way to connect with professionals who may have insight into the local job market. It is also important to connect with potential mentors or past associates via social media or in-person meetings. People are usually more than willing to help. If you do decide to use social media to network, such as LinkedIn, make sure your profile is updated and professional. Even if you are not actively using your social media outlets to network, it is important to consider that potential employers may be able to find your profile on those sites.
6. Utilize appropriate resources
Like networking, exploring all resources will help round out your job search and make you more likely to find the right position. One resource that is under-utilized is a staffing firm. An Aerotek survey found that nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents reported never using a staffing firm. Staffing agencies have a good pulse on what industries are hiring and what they are looking for in potential candidates. Often times staffing agencies have access to positions that are not listed in newspapers or online job sites. Recruiters at these companies can also provide feedback on your resume, as well as tips on how to make yourself more marketable in your selected industry.