Take Action During Your Job Search

Take Action During Your Job Search Through the years of meeting with people to revise resumes, create cover letters, or develop LinkedIn profiles, I am always amazed at the various levels of action among job seekers. While everyone has the same amount of time in a day, it is interesting to see how many people are actually taking action. Someone that is ‘active’ in the job search is not passive (by definition). An active job seeker is not waiting for the cell phone to ring with a dream job. An active job seeker uses his or her day wisely and is organizing the job search as if it WAS his or her job. These people are being proactive and are seeking action to fulfill their career goals. So, if you feel that you may have fallen into the trap of being a passive job seeker, what can you do? First, write down your overall career goals. Many times, people are unsure as to what they truly want from their next job position. Think of the location, type of work, company size, and industry you are targeting. Secondly, review your goal list and develop methods for meeting those goals. If you want to explore companies within a certain geographic area, then visit the local Chamber of Commerce. Attend networking events in that area, and research potential companies. Third, if you are out of work, be sure to reach out to your network and let them know you are seeking new opportunities. Of course, if you are still working, then you will want to ensure confidentiality is maintained at all times. Your network and word-of-mouth is the best way to land that next career opportunity. Finally, DO SOMETHING. Do not just sit at home and hope for the next opportunity to knock at the door. It will not happen; this is especially true when career opportunities may not be plentiful (as is the case right now). With a combination of online research, applying for jobs, and networking, you should be DOING at least 3-5 things each day to maintain momentum in your job search. Take action. Be someone that is organized, proactive, and totally immersed in the job search. This will show employers that you are serious about your career. While having the appropriate documents and profiles is important, nothing really beats good old-fashioned hard work and action.