Capturing Success

V. There is no substitute for researching the company’s on-line website and related information. You need to be armed with knowledge, before the interview. You can find a wealth of information by using Google. In just a few minutes you will find out if the company is stable, their vision and mission. Would the company be a good fit for you??

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IV. Once you have identified where to look for a job, shouldn’t you create the written and on-line tools to let decision makers know you are available? Of course, you need a resume. You will need one to apply to online positions. Also, you will need one that is graphically impressive. Additionally you may need a bio that discusses your accomplishments. There are those who will tell you that you don’t need a cover letter. But wait a moment, before you buy that argument hook line and sinker. If you are applying strictly on line, an argument can be made for that point of view. However, if you are delivering, mailing or networking, a cover letter is an excellent way to show the decision maker that you can write. If you are serious about the interview, you will need to take a copy of References and let the interviewer know that you are interested in the company and the position (if that is true). You will see requests for Salary History more during a downturn in the economy. So expect to be asked about yours.?

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III. Do you know where the jobs are? Based on 25 years of experience in the career business the following numbers hold true (plus or minus 4% based upon the economy). If you want to research actual numbers the US Department of Labor will have statistics, but the statistics for this year will not be available for a couple of years:

a. 40+ % of jobs are with the local/state/federal government or public funded services such as education.

b. 5%-8% of jobs are secured by applying on-line.

c. 5%-8% of jobs are secured through temporary agencies; this is a good way to test drive a career, before taking the leap to a new company or new career.

d. 5% of jobs are placed with recruiters or as they are known in the industry –Headhunters. The best way to get a headhunters attention is to excel. Their client companies only want to secure the “best” talent when they are paying a fee. If a recruiter contacts you, listen and keep their contact information.

e. Print ads in the classified, jobs publications or industry trade journals account for 10% to 15%; during a downturn in the economy the number of classified ads shrinks.

f. College professors may introduce their top students to their company contacts. This is an excellent incentive to shine academically.

g. Job Fairs account for a small percentage. When talking with company recruiters at job fairs many tell me their goal is to find one or two good candidate. Other companies are there for mass hiring. Have realistic expectations when attending job fairs.

h. Using your network and getting a personal introduction is the best way to secure employment. Build your circle of influence one contact at a time.

i. Applying directly to companies is another way to secure employment.

j. Using social networking is an emerging way to secure contacts and open lines of communication in order to obtain an introduction to a new opportunity.

k. One of my favorite ways to apply is to let a decision maker know that someone with your exceptional skill set is available.

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II. Have you created a career disaster plan? Financial Plan? Action Plan? If we have learned anything since 9/11 and the natural disasters that followed in this decade, it is that we need to expect the unexpected. Even seemingly secure companies and industries can be faced with challenges that cause them to examine their workforce and reduce expenses – and cut staff.?

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I. Who and what do you know? How many people are in your network? Make a list and add to it frequently. Whether you maintain a file of business cards or use an on-line service, your contacts are valuable. Find a reason to keep in contact with your network or centers of influence quarterly.?

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