Tackling the Post-Labor Day Job Market
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For the past few months, I have not only been talking about the summer lull in hiring but also pushing out a good deal of information in the way of webinars and articles to help bridge the gap. But, today marks the traditional uptick in activity. Despite the lackluster employment statistics that came out last week, there are still several things you can do to capitalize on the increased movement – small or otherwise – that you will see in the coming weeks.
Social Media – Get engaged! Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube are great resources for information as well as connecting with individuals who can help facilitate your search. Not sure how to get started? Simply jump in! You will be amazed at how transparent and helpful the people you meet (or Tweeps on Twitter) can be – even total strangers. As Guy Kawasaki says, “Nobodies are the new Somebodies.”
Blogs – Find blogs and ezines (electronic newsletters/magazines) that provide timely, pertinent information on the job search. Some favorites of mine are Bill Vick’s Employment Digest, the WSJ’s “Laid Off and Looking” (Ellen Whaley of my June Bootcamp is a contributor) and Tom Ruff’s Blog. Of course, my “Build the Career You Deserve” ezine too (sure, I am a little partial).
Step Away from the Computer- It’s easy to get bogged down in the day to day of checking email, responding to emails, researching companies, etc.. But, get out and network in the flesh. This can be through an organization where you are a member, volunteering or finding some employment networking functions. Pink Slip Mixers is a great one. Don’t see any being hosted in your area? Reach out and volunteer to organize it. Some my Bootcamp Members have done it and it put them in the spotlight – exactly where you want to be!
Take an Interview, Any Interview – This is a rusty, perishable skill which may be in need of rejuvenation after a slow summer. Take any interview that comes along to keep fresh, engaged and on your “A” game. This way, when the ideal position comes along you are ready for whatever is thrown your way.
Create Your Own Opening – I talk a great deal about the “hidden” job market in my webinars. One aspect that many don’t mention is that your ideal job might have someone sitting in “your” seat right now. But, in many cases, these Kings and Queens of “low hanging fruit” only have their job because there isn’t a viable alternative. Through a combination of the techniques above, you can create your own opening by giving a future employer an option: the mediocre employee they have or the stellar employee they could hire (you!).
Albeit a crowded market out there, companies are still in need of top talent – especially now. Use these techniques to get a leg up on your competition. If you have any techniques of your own that have worked, please share them with other readers below. I know they would love to hear from you.
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Interested in learning more about my Job Search 2.0 Bootcamp starting September 14th? You can read more by clicking here or listen to my “5 Secrets to the Perfect Job Search.”
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WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE, BLOG OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Kevin Kermes publishes the ‘Build the Career Your Deserve’ e-zine with over 21,000+ subscribers. If you are ready to empower yourself with the vital tools and information necessary to find the job you want and build the successful career you deserve, visit him now www.careerattraction.com
2008 – 2009 (c) Kevin Kermes Inc. – All Rights Reserved
