Like many other things in life, there are best practices when it comes to looking for a job. When you use this framework, you’ll be more effective than the vast majority of job seekers. You may find yourself cycling through stages 1 – 3 more than once. Stage 3, Networking, can be very helpful in determining your focus.
- Focus and clarity on your target role, company/industry, geography, etc.
This step begins with an understanding of your motivators, interests, skills, and talents. Depending on your individual situation, you may complete one or more assessments such as CliftonStrengths or CareerLeader to gain greater self-awareness. - Fine-tuning your marketing materials
This stage includes making sure your LinkedIn profile, resume, and cover letters present your strengths, skills, and experience in a compelling way. Each resume and cover letter you send needs to be adapted and personalized in order to highlight the ways in which your background is a good fit with the stated requirements of the position and culture of the organization. - Identifying opportunities
The easiest and least effective approach is to look for postings online. The primary activity for this step should be networking since more than 75 percent of jobs are filled as a result of the candidate connecting with someone involved in the recruiting process. It is important to follow best practices when deciding who to contact, what to request, how to track your outreach, and then follow up. - Interviewing preparation
This includes research on the organization and the individuals with whom you will meet, preparing answers to common interview questions, developing your own list of questions, developing your key selling points, and participating in mock interviews. - Negotiating an offer
Understand your values and priorities and then prepare to present your case. This final stage includes research and reflection along with practice negotiations.
Job Search Coaching may include different services depending on your goals and needs. As we co-design the coaching engagement, we may decide a complete package, including self-assessments, makes the most sense before working your way through the five stages. Alternatively, you may only have a need for coaching in a specific area. During an initial no-cost conversation, we will discuss what makes the most sense in terms of a customized package or individual services, and the duration of the engagement.
You can continue down the path you are on now or we can work together to make your journey better, easier, and faster. How can I help you?