Post Resume, Sit Back, and Wait for Offer?

I am always wary of job-hunters who think too highly of themselves or who feel they have so many skills that employers should be pounding down their doors. Nine times out of 10, it turns out that the job-seeker has mediocre skills and abilities, at best, and simply is indecisive about his or her job search.

With job-hunting, a sharp focus on jobs and employers is almost always more successful than some scattershot approach.

So, you’re first step has to be to narrow the field of job possibilities. Conduct some occupational research and develop a list of jobs that fit your skills, interests, and abilities.

Once that step is complete, then start examining potential industries and employers. I’ve found that some job-seekers really benefit from a tool we use in business called a SWOT Analysis, where you examine your strengths and weaknesses (the best part), as well as the threats and opportunities in various career fields. Read more.

You also need to expand your job-search beyond just a few Internet job sites. You cannot afford to limit your job-seeking opportunities — and you need to be an active participant in the job-search rather than passive. Consider some of the other avenues of job-searching: networking, recruiters, cold contact, job postings, want ads, and alumni/career services offices from your previous schools.

In the end, you need to remember that networking is typically the best tool for finding a job. It’s also a good tool for learning more about various occupations and jobs.

Read, Ten Questions to Ask Yourself if You Still Haven’t Found a Job.

You should also consider using the Job-Search Checklist found on Quintessential Careers.

Finally, go to this section of Quintessential Careers to find some great networking resources.