Job Hunting in Tough Times

When the evening news trumpets more layoffs, it's hard to imagine that good jobs are still available these days. Bad economic news seems to permeate every conversation lately, but don't lose heart — with perseverance and focus, you can still land a good job.

Sure, you'll face lots of competition for every position, and it seems as if businesses are taking their time in making hiring decisions. But if you stay in a competitive mindset, you're likely to find the job you want at a salary that works for you. Here are our top seven tips for job hunters:

1. Analyze your industry. Is the industry still viable for a long-term career? If the answer is no, take a hard look at other industries to determine which ones might be a better fit for your talent and passion in the future — and which have a better chance of making it through the next recession.
2. Create a professional image. Your resume, appearance, job-board and networking profiles, and any other items that a potential employer will see must be outstanding and individualized. Stand out from the competition as the detailed, focused talent you are.
3. Rethink your resume. Are measurable achievements listed or do you still have the same old list of positions and skills that you've always shown? Highlight your record of success to catch the attention of hiring employers.
4. Find a recruiter who fits your needs. Not every recruiter is right for every candidate; find those who are advertising for the types of positions you really want and ask for their insight about how to snag the job of your dreams. When you develop good relationships with recruiters, they'll remember you when the right job arises.
5. Network! You've heard it before, but it's one of the keys to finding the position you seek. Do it online, in person, and aggressively — when people know you're looking for a certain type of position, they'll remember you when that position opens up. Networking extends your reach and hits those contacts most likely to interview and hire.
6. Target desired companies. If you know that Company X is a great place to work, then why not ask your professional recruiter to proactively market you there? Don't be shy about asking for introductions through LinkedIn or other professional sites or from your personal contacts.
7. Do something every day. Treat your job hunt like a job and make an effort daily to find your new position. Email a new contact, refresh your resume and customize it for the position that you are applying it for, attend a networking event — do at least one thing every day to keep your search moving forward. Apathy is your worst enemy in a job hunt.

The Connors Group can solidify your networking efforts. We know how to personalize your search so that you're targeting the unique requirements and expectations of hiring employers. We can even help you find flexible positions as you search for permanent work. For more information, contact Christine Appleton, Director of Southeast Recruiting at The Connors Group, at 704-222-3538 or by email at christine@theconnorsgroup.com.