The time and effort spent searching for a job without success can leave a person frustrated and full of anxiety. You may feel stuck. Traditional job search methods are only successful 30 percent of the time, according to the University of Houston's University Career Services. Getting unstuck in your job search requires the flexibility, courage and creativity to try different strategies.
Networking
Only 15 percent of job openings are advertised publicly, according to the University of Houston. Networking, or getting job leads from people you already know, is the most successful way to find a job. Your network includes family members, friends, neighbors, job references, casual acquaintances, former co-workers, school contacts and anyone else you come into contact with. Membership in a professional organization and in other associations is a good source of job leads. Contact the people in your network and let them know you're looking for a job. Be specific about what you're looking for, if possible, and ask if they have any information or know of someone relevant that can help you.
Join a Job Search Support Group
Joining a job search support group can get you unstuck in a variety of ways. Members can help each other by exchanging job leads, developing ideas for each other, renewing optimism and providing emotional support. If a job search support group doesn't exist yet in your area, consider starting one yourself, writes Bill Knaus on the Psychology Today blog.
Create a Self-Marketing Commercial
Create a self-marketing commercial that will grab attention and create interest, the University of Houston advises. Concise information about your background, education, experience and achievements as they relate to the job you seek make up a good summary. It should be less than 30 seconds long. Employers say 90 percent of candidates interviewed don't have an answer when asked why they should be offered the job, according to the University of Houston. Knowing what you have to offer an employer, and being able to convey it clearly, can give you the edge.
Make Yourself Memorable
Standing out from other job candidates in a positive and creative way can increase your chances of getting a job. Avoid hokey or gimmicky attempts to be noticed, though, because they can backfire. Cleveland State University's career strategies brochure gave an example of a student who made herself memorable by presenting job recruiters with a magazine she created about herself. Reference letters from impressive clients can be made into a booklet. Produce something neat that expresses your skills and personality.
Be Flexible
Create a job for yourself. Knaus tells of an out-of-work executive who sold items at a flea market on weekends, earning more than he did before. Consider doing freelance, contract or temporary work to open doors to new opportunities. Take a volunteer job to learn new skills, meet new contacts and strengthen your resume.
Make Direct Contact with Companies
Making direct contact with companies is one of the most successful ways to find a job, the University of Houston says. You can meet employers at workshops and career fairs, or contact them directly. Create a list of employers that are a good match for your skills. Find out who to contact by searching company websites or calling them. Write a letter and introduce yourself, explaining that you're interested in a position, and request a meeting. Make a phone call to follow up. Try dropping in unannounced, and set up an interview for another time if the person in charge of the department you'd like to work for isn't available to speak with you.
References
- Psychology Today: "Top Tips For Job Hunters: Use The Dogtown Legacy to Stay Upbeat and Succeed in Your Job Search": Dr. Bill Knaus, EdD
- Helpguide.org: Job Networking Tips: How to Find a Job By Building Relationships
- Cleveland State University: Career Search Strategies: Stuck?
- University of Houston: University Career Services: The Successful Job Search
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