Last week I was griping about common but bad advice given to job seekers. This week I'll share two more examples:
• When networking, start with family and friends and build outward.
The problem with this process is that it doesn't work. I've watched as job seekers have initiated contact with those closest to them, then waited for leads that never arrive.
What does? Strategic networking tied to a targeted job search.
A targeted job search is focused on the goal job or industry desired by the candidate. Once you know your target, you develop a networking strategy based on the simple question, “Who would I need to know to get interviews or offers for these jobs?” Then, “How can I get an introduction to these people?” Then make new connections who can lead you to your networking and job-search targets.
• Your resume should be customized for every opening. Of course it's entirely possible with your fancy computer to make 400 versions of your resume. But just because you can doesn't mean you should.
The real issue with changing your resume for each opening is an untargeted job search that is overly reliant on advertised openings.
In a good market, the targeted search is your assurance that you're getting the job you want and not just the first thing that comes along. In a tight market, such as the one now, a targeted job search is your ticket to jobs that are open or about to be open but do not appear in the ads. If you don't have a category in mind, you are locked into watching the ads and revising your resume.
Better process: Decide what you are, or what you want, and develop a resume that tells that story in a clear and compelling way. Then reach out to companies and your newly strategized network with this one version.
