We are welcoming in a new year but not that much has changed. We are still battling COVID and have to wear a mask. And companies are still recruiting and hiring.
What can you do now and in the days, weeks, and months ahead to move forward with your job search?
1) Reconnect with former colleagues, alumni, old friends. Everyone is happy to talk or Zoom with you. Even if you have not spoken with someone in a year or 5 or 10 years, it doesn’t matter. Don’t be afraid of emailing or calling to learn of their news and share yours.
2) Stay in touch with hiring managers with whom you have spoken or interviewed for jobs you did not get. Write an email every 4 to 6 weeks with a piece of information or an article you recently read to show them you are interested in their industry and their company. Keep them updated on your job search. There may be an opening in their company or other positions they know of.
3) Practice telling your stories. Show how you solved a problem and got results. Practice with a friend or job search buddy, record yourself on your phone and listen to yourself. Leave out the “ums” “ers” and “you knows”. Make it sound natural and conversational.
4) Continue to build your network and relationships – Try a new group, meet up, virtual lunch club, alumni network, book club, or LinkedIn group to meet new people. Set up one to ones by phone or zoom.
5) Research companies you are interested in working for. Look at their websites, press releases, annual reports, trade journals. Find out as much as you can about their mission, products or services, and company culture. Be ready to say why you would want to work for that company.
Remember: There is no better time than now to take steps toward your next job. Even spending ten minutes a day thinking about your job search will get you there. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
(c) 2020 Amy Geffen All Rights Reserved