Yes, your career is your #1 financial asset -- and managing it appropriately can make you millions throughout your working years. And a key part of managing your career, at some point, is going to be looking for a (new) job. As such, I wanted to share with you my favorites of MSN's ten rules of job hunting:
- Rule No.1: Be a creature unlike any other. This Rule entails adapting a sense of confidence that others around you will notice. As a job seeker, you certainly want to stand out among the competition, and one of the easiest ways you can get a potential employer to notice you is through your attitude. The authors also recommend pausing in between sentences (to avoid babbling out of nervousness), listening intently and standing up straight, all things that will also help job candidates convey poise and professionalism in an interview.
- Rule No. 2: Show up to dances, parties and social events even if you do not feel like it. This Rule emphasizes one of the most valuable steps in job-searching: networking. It's hard to find The One if you're sitting at home in front of a computer. Make an effort to meet new people and try new things, and you may just meet someone who knows of a job that's perfect for you.
- Rule No. 6: When placing your [personal] ad, remember that every man has a type, a voice or a look he likes. Think of your cover letter as your personal ad, because in many ways it is your chance to make yourself sound attractive to employers. Tailor it to the wants and needs of the employer and the specific position for which you're applying. You may be the best darn dart-player in all of Hancock County, but leave it out of your cover letter if it isn't relevant to the type of job you're seeking.
- Rule No. 9: Buyer beware. Observe his behavior so that you do not end up with Mr. Wrong. Remember that your interview is also a chance for you to ask questions and make assessments. Just because a company likes you does not mean that you will like that company. Consider whether the job and company you're applying for are a true fit for you. Ask yourself if you could honestly see yourself working there. How does the boss treat his employees? Do the employees seem to like the company? Was the interviewer welcoming and interested in you? Your job search, much like your search for Mr. or Mrs. Right, is about finding a place that's right for you.
My thoughts on these:
1. You have to stand out and make a positive, lasting impression. That's why I like the book Career Intensity so much. It highlights how you can develop, manage, and maximize your own personal brand.
2. Rule #2 is one of my downfalls. I'm not a big party-goer, so I have to force myself to get out on occasion. That said, I am big into one-on-one or couples night out gatherings, so I make up for the large group settings with several small networking "meetings."
3. Finding a job is about marketing yourself to fit the needs of the employer. This starts with determining what they want, then deciding if you want to be (and can be) the solution to their need. If so, then tailor everything you do to fulfilling that need -- including how you write your cover letter, how you create your resume, how you interview, and on and on. Doing so will give you a much greater chance of being hired.
For more thoughts on your career, see these links from Free Money Finance:
When looking for a new job i know more money is the main benefit that most people expect. But is taking a bigger pay going to matter if the insurance with the new company is not that good? Especially if you have a growing family?
Posted by: james bursey | July 11, 2007 at 05:13 AM