The majority of working adults look for a job in the
newspapers or through internal postings. Yet, researchers
tell us that at least 85 percent of the available jobs
are never advertised. These make up the hidden job
market.
Here are some creative ways to use your resume to tap
into that hidden market:
| 1. |
Supply a copy of your updated
resume and business card to every contact who may
lead you to a job opening. The more informed they
are about you, the more effectively they can
promote you. |
| 2. |
Set up information-getting
interviews with key decision-makers in companies
in the industries you most want to work in. Leave
your resume or business card with them. |
| 3. |
Target organizations/businesses
you're attracted to and deliver resumes
personally, or mail them, with a letter
expressing your interest and motivation. Indicate
you will follow up with a phone call shortly. |
| 4. |
Use your resume to acquire a
volunteer position you want in order to gain
experience in a particular area. |
| 5. |
Contact
personnel agencies or executive search firms in
your area. Becoming part of their applicant
inventory may lead to a referral on a job that
you wouldn't otherwise have heard about. |
| 6. |
If you're in a field where there
is an established professional association,
contact them regarding job leads. If they publish
a newsletter or journal, watch it for leads.
Consider placing an ad promoting your services
and strengths. Attend association meetings to
continue your networking. |
| 7. |
The more employers you can meet
personally, the better. So resist the temptation
to simply mail out a number of resumes. Instead,
write a broadcast letter or letter of inquiry
expressing interest in an organization. Stimulate
their curiosity by offering yourself as a
resource. Tell them enough about your background
to influence them to want to see you. Offer to
bring your resume when you meet. Promise to
follow up with a phone call to establish a
meeting time. |
| 8. |
If you plan to be self-employed,
develop a promotional brochure or flyer to
introduce yourself to prospective customers and
establish your credibility. |
A Tip About
Timing:
Many job seekers convince themselves that there's not
much happening in the job market lust before or during
holidays. Or they wait for the career ads in the Saturday
paper and don't bother with the mid-week help wanted ads.
There are definitely employers who advertise during the
week. And there are employers, who, when faced with an
important position vacancy, are not going to delay
replacement until mid-January. When you respond to ads in
these situations, you will have a competitive advantage
because the competition is much lighter. Perseverance,
creativity and resourcefulness are essential to
successful job search. The more well written resumes you
have out circulating, the greater the likelihood you will
be invited to interviews and receive job offers! Make a
commitment to work full time at getting work.
Luck is what happens
when preparation meets opportunity.
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