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
