Resume and Job Search Secrets

What are you doing tonight?  How about Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday?  You get the picture right?  Well, I hope you answered by saying you are going to a meeting, networking event, charity function, or volunteering!  If not, then we need to talk.

On a daily basis if you call me and say, “Hey Violet, what are you doing tonight?”, you will get a response like. “I have a Junior Chamber of Commerce meeting, I have a board meeting, I am going to a networking social, I am going to volunteer for Junior Achievement”, etc.  I am always doing something. Why?  One of the main reasons, I like to be involved in many organizations.  I like to give back to our community, socialize, and of course, get business!

So you say networking is not for you when you are looking for a job, WRONG!  It is absolutely for you.  Imagine, you are at a Chamber of Commerce breakfast and you are sitting at a table full of bank managers, CEO’s, corporate HR professionals, and recruiters. Mrs. Jane Doe turns to you and says, “How are you?  What is your name and what do you do?”, your response…”Hi, my name is John Smith and I am currently seeking a new opportunity as a Wealth Management Portfolio Manager.” “Oh really, well I am the CEO of ABC Bank and we have just added five positions in the wealth management division of our company. Here is my card. Please send me your resume so we can set up a time to meet.”   

WHAMMO!  Guess what…an opportunity you did not see coming!  Why, you stepped out of the box and went to network. 

By the way did you know that 80% of jobs are found this way?   

If you are sitting at home, just plastering your resume to various job boards, you are missing the boat!  If you do not have the skills or qualification necessary to do your dream job, get involved in an organization where you can volunteer and get those skills. I know you are thinking like what…for example, if you would like to go into HR and you have no experience, call your local Human Resources organization and ask if they have any volunteer opportunities or ask to speak to someone on the board about their job and how their acquired their skills.  Broward County’s local HR organization is HRABC.

Have you ever felt uncomfortable going to an event?  If yes, take someone with you or get involved in an organization that will boost your professional development skills like the Hollywood Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) or Toastmasters.  These organizations often have trainings, workshops, and guest speakers at their meetings on various topics.   

My whole point is…if you are having trouble finding a job, you need to be creative and step outside the box.  Get involved; give back to your community, and who knows who you will meet and what opportunity will come your way.

Remember, be positive and visualize your dream job! Stay tuned…everyday we will feature a different organization! 

Filed under: Job Search