Debunking common job search myths - Sterling Career Concepts

Debunking common job search myths Debunking common job search myths Job searching is one of those topics where everyone thinks theyre an expert and likes to toss in their opinion, which means many misconceptions get circulated and unfortunately perpetuated. I wanted to take a few minutes to discuss some common misconceptions making the rounds amongjob seekers. I’m currently employed. If I put a profile up on LinkedIn, it’ll look like I’m looking for a job. FALSE. LinkedIn has become the default online business networking site for professionals, without regard to employment status. There are slight nuances to well-written profiles that help convey to the reader whether you are happily employed or open to opportunities.When you are happily employed and not using LinkedIn for a job search, your profile can read like a bioto position you as an industry expert. My resumeshould be one page. FALSE. So false.Your resume needs to be only as long as to effectively sell yourself for the position youre considering.If I were to generalize, one-page resumes are most appropriate for new or recent graduates or young professionals. Beyond that, most resumes for mid- to senior-level professionals tend to be two pages,but even that isjust a benchmark. The only “rule” when it comes to resume writing is to treat the space on a resume page as expensive real estate. Use words sparingly and carefully. Write tight.Edit and consolidate every sentence. Each line or phrase should add value. If an item does not further your brand or message, then consider removing it. A resume is not a personal history, but rather a marketing document to win interviews. Yeah! I got called for an interview.I cant wait to see if the position will bea goodnext stepfor me. FALSE. Are you scratching your head? This is one is tricky.I know thats what youre thinking when you get an interview, but when it comes to strategy,your goal needs to be to impress upon the employer why you are the right candidate for them, how you can solve their problems, make them more money, or do things better. Put yourself in the interviewer’s shoes. Who will seem like a stronger candidate to you? Candidate A who sells himself as excited to join their team,who asked a series of thoughtful questions,and sounds ready to hit the ground running on day one or Candidate B who couldn’t stop asking questions about what’s in it for him â€" the hours, the vacation time, the benefits, the bonus structure? Trust me. I know these factors are important, and there will be an opportunity to review all of that, but make them fall in love with you first. I will find a new job in 2010. TRUE.Did you really thinkIdbe Negative Nellie and walk you through only false concepts? I didnt have the heartto do that to you.My glass is always half full. If you are active in your networking and targeting efforts, you will develop new contacts and learn about the companies in your space. If you areconsistent and thorough in your efforts, you will see results. If you set daily and weekly goals in your job search efforts, the diligence will pay off. Forinspiration, read this post from Tim Tyrell-Smithfrom last week that’s worthy of being printed out and posted on your refrigerator or mirror. Debunking common job search myths Debunking common job search myths Job searching is one of those topics where everyone thinks theyre an expert and likes to toss in their opinion, which means many misconceptions get circulated and unfortunately perpetuated. I wanted to take a few minutes to discuss some common misconceptions making the rounds amongjob seekers. I’m currently employed. If I put a profile up on LinkedIn, it’ll look like I’m looking for a job. FALSE. LinkedIn has become the default online business networking site for professionals, without regard to employment status. There are slight nuances to well-written profiles that help convey to the reader whether you are happily employed or open to opportunities.When you are happily employed and not using LinkedIn for a job search, your profile can read like a bioto position you as an industry expert. My resumeshould be one page. FALSE. So false.Your resume needs to be only as long as to effectively sell yourself for the position youre considering.If I were to generalize, one-page resumes are most appropriate for new or recent graduates or young professionals. Beyond that, most resumes for mid- to senior-level professionals tend to be two pages,but even that isjust a benchmark. The only “rule” when it comes to resume writing is to treat the space on a resume page as expensive real estate. Use words sparingly and carefully. Write tight.Edit and consolidate every sentence. Each line or phrase should add value. If an item does not further your brand or message, then consider removing it. A resume is not a personal history, but rather a marketing document to win interviews. Yeah! I got called for an interview.I cant wait to see if the position will bea goodnext stepfor me. FALSE. Are you scratching your head? This is one is tricky.I know thats what youre thinking when you get an interview, but when it comes to strategy,your goal needs to be to impress upon the employer why you are the right candidate for them, how you can solve their problems, make them more money, or do things better. Put yourself in the interviewer’s shoes. Who will seem like a stronger candidate to you? Candidate A who sells himself as excited to join their team,who asked a series of thoughtful questions,and sounds ready to hit the ground running on day one or Candidate B who couldn’t stop asking questions about what’s in it for him â€" the hours, the vacation time, the benefits, the bonus structure? Trust me. I know these factors are important, and there will be an opportunity to review all of that, but make them fall in love with you first. I will find a new job in 2010. TRUE.Did you really thinkIdbe Negative Nellie and walk you through only false concepts? I didnt have the heartto do that to you.My glass is always half full. If you are active in your networking and targeting efforts, you will develop new contacts and learn about the companies in your space. If you areconsistent and thorough in your efforts, you will see results. If you set daily and weekly goals in your job search efforts, the diligence will pay off. Forinspiration, read this post from Tim Tyrell-Smithfrom last week that’s worthy of being printed out and posted on your refrigerator or mirror.