Searching for a job can be a daunting task, especially in today's market. Michael Fletcher, a staffing guru at Robert Half International, offers a few tips that can help you maximize the results of your hunt.
Fletcher says that the first mistake many people make is scanning the Wanted section or surfing sites like Monster for openings.
"Not every job that's out there is posted on the internet," he explains. "I think employers have learned because of high unemployment that if they post a job, they're going to get so many responses, it's almost overwhelming."
There is a hidden job market out there, run by word of mouth. So if you're not in tune with the industry you want to join, your best option is to call a recruiter.
The second mistake that many people make is applying to too many jobs. It may be counterintuitive, but you may be casting too wide a net, thinking that the more jobs you apply for, the more opportunities you'll get.
"If you apply to 12 different jobs at one company, that company's not going to take you seriously," says Fletcher.
He suggests that you narrow down your search and focus on following up with each application conscientiously.
Next...you've been looking so long, you're tired of networking.
"If you're looking for a job, everyone you know should know you're looking for a job," says Fletcher. "The best chance you have of landing that job is by getting that information out there."
Finally, you're sending the same sheet of paper to every job you apply for. Fletcher says these days, hiring managers speed-read resumes, with keys words in mind.
"Most of them will look at a resume for less than 30 seconds, and they're looking for key words," he explains. "If you're using one resume for all of your job searches, you may be applying to Job A, and using the same resume for Job B, and the two jobs are not that similar."
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