Friday, May 23, 2014

Winnings Ways advice column - '15 myths about job hunting' part I - by Marge Powers



15 Myths about Job Hunting…Part I

Dear Magic:

I am in the process of Job Hunting, and I’m not sure what rumors I should be paying attention to regarding the process.  Some people say ‘do this’ and I hear others say, ‘no, do that’, so I’m very confused, and I’ve got to get a job fast.  I’m really worried.    Any information you can give me would help at this point.  Thanks.  Axel Hummel

Dear Axel:

Yes, the job search process can be very confusing, and how can a person find out the differences between the truths and myths in looking for a job?  The important thing is to educate yourself, go to the library and you will find a multitude of job search books, which will give you useful information or why not hire yourself an expert career coach.  In the meantime, read these myths and misconceptions below about the job hunt and see how many of them you believed in and how many you knew were incorrect.  Once you know the truth about job hunting and how to prepare yourself, you should have much more job search success, more confidence, less stress and understand how to get that job!  Good Luck!   Marge ‘Magic’ Powers



Note:  Check out Part 2 (next week) for a continuation of this article on Job Hunting.

Myth 1:  Registering at several Internet Job Boards will result in Multiple Job Offers.

While job hunting on the Web should be one component of a job search for most job seekers, it should not be viewed as having any higher success rates than applying to help wanted ads in the newspaper or trade magazines.  Only about 5% of job seekers obtain jobs through ads.

Myth 2:  Want Ads and other Job Postings represent the majority of Jobs available.

At the very most, only about 15-20 % of all available jobs are ever publicly advertised in any medium  The vast majority of job openings are part of the ‘hidden’ or  ‘closed’ job market.   How can you discover these hidden jobs?  Through networking.  Networking is by far the most effective job search tool you can use for finding people who can help with your search. 

Myth 3:  Job Seekers who change Jobs often are frowned upon by Employers.
The notion of ‘job hoppers,’ those job seekers who had multiple jobs with short stays listed on their resumes, has been disappearing for years.  Avoid really short stints (under a year) but otherwise don’t be too concerned with moving around.  And if you are concerned, focus on your transferrable skills with a functional rather than chronological resume. 

Myth 4:  A Cover Letter is not as important as other Job Hunting Materials.

Every time you apply for a job you should send a cover letter written specifically for the open position and company you are applying to, it should tell employers exactly what job you want, how you are uniquely qualified for that position and can help them solve their problems.

Myth 5:  A Resume must show a logical progression of Jobs and increased responsibility.

The most important part of a resume is showing that you have the skills, education (or training), and experience that the employer is seeking.  Most employers will spend less than 20 seconds reviewing your resume, which means you need to focus on the key components plus your accomplishments related to the job opening which should result in getting a job interview.

Myth 7:  Lowering your Salary Demands will make you a more attractive Job Candidate.

Nope.  Job seekers should never lower reasonable salary demands because doing so will just make you appear desperate for the job, and will likely result in you not getting the job offer.   As long as you salary demands are within acceptable range for the job you’re seeking. stick to them.  And never be the first to bring up salary; let the employer raise the issue.


Magic Morsel:  Let go of your ideas of what you think the job search is supposed to look like.


CONNECT WITH US:

eMail me your letters, inquiries; Let me know your opinions, let’s have your suggestions and ask your questions.  If you’re ready to feel good about yourself, then connect now!

HELP IS HERE:

 Contact me for a free consultation at 209.785.2042 or   marge@discoverwinningways.com.  (Would you please call between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.)? 

 Note:  If I am with a client, I do not answer the phone, so please leave a message and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. 

I have written many books in how to improve your lifestyle, career plans, job search activities and/or retirement issues. These books can be reviewed on: www.discoverwinningways.com.

Note:   I only work with people who can benefit most from my coaching; such as those who are in transition, open minded, interested in growing and viewing their world as an opportunity full of possibilities.  I enjoy working with people who are committed and motivated to ‘win’ and want to be satisfied in a life that actually works and fits who they are! 

P.S.  If you would like a FREE eBook “How to Sabotage Your Job Search”, send me an email and I’ll be happy to send it to you! 

Good thoughts and Best Wishes!



      WINNING WAYS
Career and Master NLP Life Learning Advisor
           209.785.2042
                                                                      marge@discoverwinningways.com