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4 Ways to Take Control of Your Job Search

4-Ways-to-Take-Control-of-Your-Job-Search

 

Helpless? Discouraged? Frustrated?

That’s no way to feel when you’re looking for jobs in Middle Tennessee.

But if you’ve been conducting a fruitless job search for any length of time, it’s only natural to feel like you’re at the mercy of HR and hiring managers. You may even imagine them sitting at their computers, chuckling to themselves as they ruthlessly plow through candidates’ resumes and determine their fate with the click of a mouse…

Okay, maybe that’s a bit extreme. But believe us, we know how tough it is to find the opportunity you want. It takes planning, persistence and lots of mental fortitude. So if you’ve been on the hunt for awhile and are feeling a little forlorn, use these quick tips to stay motivated.

Take control of your job search – and stop letting it control you.

  1. Be mindful of the image you’re projecting. If your job search isn’t yielding the results (i.e., interviews and offers) you want, it may be time for a little critical analysis. Remember, every move you make while searching says something about you: how you feel about yourself; how you view the opportunity; how professional you truly are. So know what message you’re sending. Make sure you’re not:
    1. applying to jobs for which you’re grossly over- or under-qualified;
    2. applying to so many jobs with a particular employer that you appear desperate;
    3. submitting a generic resume and cover letter, which sends the unspoken message that you don’t give a hoot about the opportunity.
  2. Stop playing the job application “numbers game.” Many job seekers fall prey to the idea that, if they just upload enough applications, their dream job will eventually fall into their lap. Don’t play that game – take a “less is more” approach, instead. Search more successfully by targeting a handful of prospective employers and proactively marketing yourself to key decision-makers who work there. Consider: tapping your professional network to arrange an introduction; requesting an informational interview; or asking a common connection to introduce you via LinkedIn.
  3. Explain why you’re the best candidate for the job. When you’re more selective about the opportunities to which you apply, you can do more than just tailor your resume. You can make a strong case for your candidacy by outlining why you’re the best person for the job. Research the company and the position. Tweak your objective and incorporate relevant keywords. Then, using the job posting as a guide, create a list of three to five bullet points that explain how your experience, skills and personality are a great fit.
  4. Register with a leading Middle Tennessee employment agency. With locations throughout Middle Tennessee, we can make your search for work more efficient and successful. And we’ll never waste your time. We’ll only contact you with opportunities that fit your skills, experience, interests and work preferences. Ready to take control of your job search? Search Murfreesboro jobs here or give Wood Personnel a call.
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