Common Myths About Finding a Job

As a careers advisor and coach, I have probably heard most of the reasons why someone can't, hasn't and won't find a job.  Here are the top 5 myths I'd like you to think about:

Always State an Objective on Your Resume
Telling a prospective employer what you want is a waste of words and not important to them. Rather, use a concise, specific, well crafted profile or summary statement to communicate how you and your career experience can benefit them in their specific industry.  Research and tailoring your CV is everything!

Job Boards are the Best Leads
It’s fine to check online and search postings, but relying solely on Monster, Career Builder and Jobserve is like playing a slot machine and hoping for a big payoff. Use the information you glean from the Internet to understand your value in the market and what skills the market is demanding in your field.

There is no Hidden Job Market
Many jobs are never advertised. That's a FACT. Your network is one of the best source of leads. Make sure people know about your search. They can’t help you if they don’t know you’re looking. Be bold and contact companies directly and let them know (through your research of their products and services) you can help them solve specific issues.  LinkedIn and Facebook will help you identify the potential decision makers to approach.

Recruiters will find you a job
YOU are ultimately responsible for finding YOUR next job. A recruiter is only interested in filling an open position with the best candidate – as specified by their client, the hiring company. If you’re the right match, then the recruiter will try to close the deal and get you placed. Remember, the client company is paying the recruiter’s fee, you’re not.

Social Networking is a Fad
Social Networking is here to stay and must be a key part of a job search strategy. By connecting with people and sharing something of value (an article, blog post, or other contacts), you will see doors begin to open. The more quality connections you make, the more opportunities will surface. The most important factor in social networking is trying to help others first. What can you bring to a networking relationship? Find people that you can help and start by giving. The principle of it’s better to give than to receive is especially pertinent in social networking. What you can give to others will come back to you.

If you are hitting your head against a brickwall and feel you need a different approach to your career strategy, contact Katherine Wiid who is a highly skilled Career Coach.  Visit www.recrion.co.uk or call her on 01780 484910.  You might be eligible for free coaching through the Response to Redundancy scheme Recrion is facilitating – visit www.recrion.co.uk.free for more information.