How to Kick Start Your Job Search

Four of the most common roadblocks to landing a next job are:

1. Lack of clarity on your value proposition

2. Poorly written resume with no accomplishments

3. Inability to be succinct in communication, i.e. interviewing, resume or cover letters

4. No clue how to activate and work with a network.

If you are looking for a reboot or to get started without wasting time on landing your next job, you must do these 5 things:

1. Gain clarity on who you want to be and what you want to do next. This is the most critical step, yet often the most overlooked. Instead, people jump in with the resume, when in fact a resume alone will not land your next job. This includes getting real about your core values, your value proposition, skills you want to use and market needs. In fact, you need to be crystal clear on the jobs you are targeting in order for your resume to pique interest.

2. Dive deep into your accomplishments. Your key accomplishments often provide wise insight into #1 as well as your energy levels and what you may need in a job.

3. Activate your network. With 70-85% of jobs found through networking, you cannot afford to NOT activate your network. Many people have 5 networks they can activate:

   1. Social network, i.e. Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn

   2. Community network, i.e. at the gym, your church, book clubs, etc.

   3. Professional network, i.e. think 360 degrees- not just bosses or people you deem 'in high places,' but also peers, subordinates, clients, customers, patients, vendors, etc.

   4. Personal network, i.e. your family and friends.

   5. Alumni network, i.e. many high school and college groups exist on LinkedIn and or you can dare to call into your Alumni office for information on connecting with alumni.

4. Get a pulse on the market. Research fastest growing companies, companies that are promoting their job postings and/or sponsoring their job postings. This will provide insight into immediate needs. Also, check out articles/happenings from your state and local Chambers of Commerce.

5. Nail your USP. Your USP stands for your Unique Selling Proposition. Essentially this is referring to your ability to CLEARLY and SUCCINCTLY identify problems you will solve and value you will bring to your next job, company, etc.

The job market can be loud and noisy.

So, think about how you can stand out and cut through the noise.

If you are struggling in your job search, let's chat.