If you’ve been out of work for several months and aren’t getting any interviews, or you’re going on interviews but not getting any offers, maybe it’s time to adjust your approach to job hunting.
There’s no particular length of time after which the alarm bells should sound, but the general rule is, if you’ve sent out dozens of résumés and aren’t getting any bites, or you’ve gone on a dozen interviews but haven’t received any job offers – do something.
In looking into this topic to provide a simple self help guide the following seemed to consistently be the best collection of suggestions:
1. If you aren’t getting interviews – reconsider your CV.
Check for spelling mistakes. And have a friend check it out too. Include a section outlining you skills: ‘hard skills’ like knowing a software package, ‘soft skills’ like being a strong team player
2. And importantly, note achievements in each position.
3. The cover letter has become important again. Make sure it’s not just a mash up of your CV – it’s about stating the reasons as to why you should be hired, matching a few critical elements to the position advertised, and why you would fit with the position
4. Focus your search. Don’t just randomly shoot it out to every position… also note the three companies you’d like to work for and make contact. And use your networks.
5. Twitter… well the US research showed that professional use of Twitter was recommended as many HR professionals are on Twitter… but we’ll leave that up to you to decide.
6. Been on lots of interviews but not securing a job offer? Think about your interview technique.
Basics to get right (and still haven’t gone out of fashion)… are you dressed professionally? Make sure you allow plenty of time to get to the interview
7. See if you can use your down time your time by learning new skills or volunteering in the community. The worst question that one could be asked is “What have you been doing since your position finished?”… Only to be met with a blank stare.
8. Practice going on each interview… Research the company and go in with good knowledge. Some questions will always come up in an interview so be ready for them. Most ask about strengths and weaknesses.
The key to answering the weaknesses questions – and you should always have an answer – is to put a positive spin on it. Be able to describe them in the right way.
9. Be confident. Always come prepared with a few questions of your own. Show you are interested and have done research. Look them in the eye, strong handshake. Don’t boast, but boldly state your accomplishments. Don’t be negative.
10. It doesn’t hurt to follow-up and say thank you. And if not successful don’t be afraid to ask for feedback about what you could have done better. The feedback could be perfect in-sight on how to improve for the next time.
*Forbes.com/business basics.Tara Wiess/ Career Analysts NZ
