Friday, January 2, 2009

4 Reasons Why You Won't Get A "Gig" in 2009


It's 2009 - YAY!!!


But you need a job - BOO!!!


So what's a person to do? You have a new year, a fresh start, and time. Well, not exactly. Time is your worst enemy. The clock is ticking and the stakes are higher than ever before. With over 10 million Americans out of work, unemployment numbers are high, and climbing higher it seems. What does this mean for you? Well, spending time conducting your job search the wrong way by doing the following will ensure that time works against you and you won't get the "Gig" you looking for in 2009. So, let's explore what NOT to do in 2009.


You're Quiet About Your Job Search

The fastest way to kill any chances of finding a job in 2009 is to let feelings of shame, depression, or guilt creep in. Feelings of inadequacy abound because sometimes job seekers feel that they are to blame for the state of unemployment that they are in. So, they are quiet about their search because of the shame. Stop it. Right now. Instead, start talking to people. Kids in school? Talk to other parents while waiting to pick little Johnnie/Joanne up. Talk to the person waiting with you on the bus, talk to the person you normally see while grocery shopping. You never know who knows someone that wants to know you.


You're Very Specific About What You Want

Although it's good to know what you want in a job search, being inflexible is not going to help you land a job. Want to work as a paralegal in a law firm? That's great, but have you considered applying to something else besides a law firm? What about a company's legal department? Maybe the job title doesn't say "paralegal" but instead, it says "legal analyst" - with some of the same duties as a paralegal. Don't overlook opportunities like these. Accepting an offer for a position that meets 80% of what you want to do is better than holding out for the "perfect job" and receiving no job offers at all.


You're Beginning To Believe "They" Just Don't Want To Hire You

Many job seekers come to me and tell me that "they" just don't want to hire someone like them. If you've ever had this thought - "Hiring managers don't want to hire a girl/guy that's _____ (fill in the blank)". STOP IT RIGHT NOW!!!! Remember these words as you move forward with your job search - "It's NOT personal". Every hiring manager isn't out to "get" you. Although there's always one "bad apple" in the bunch, all hiring managers are not bad people. They are simply looking for the person with the best qualifications that match what the company is looking for. If they didn't see it in you and you feel that you are a strong fit for the position, take a second look at your resume and your interviewing skills.


You Think Social Networking Sites Like "Twitter" and "Facebook" Are For Losers

This is a new day! More people are using social networking sites like Twitter, Facebook, and Linked In to connect. Connect with people though these sites by adding well thought out conversations and posts. Don't just "jump into" these discussions by posting - "Does anyone have a job?" This approach is too brash. It's the equivalent of you conducting a dinner party with family and friends and someone walking into your home, planting themselves in the center of the room and standing on top of the dinner table and shouting "Does anyone have a job?" How would receptive would you and your guests be to this person? Instead, join these sites and work towards building relationships.


Do these tips help? Let me know. Or share some additional tips if you have them. Feel free to comment!

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