So many college graduates (and recently, more “seasoned” people) call me and ask if I have any work for them, or if I know of any openings. To put it mildly, I do not think this is the best way to look for a job.
I hate to use the F word here, but I will. These kids have to FOCUS more.
Stop sending your cover letters and resumes all over the world, hoping you’ll get a response.
Start thinking about what you really want. Your “dream job.”
What type of job do you want? Who would you like to work for, and why?
Take out of a piece of paper and write down 10 dream jobs you’d love to have, and 10 dream companies you would love to work for.
Then do some digging.
Which of these companies are growing? Which are doing new things?
Do google searches on key executives. And company histories.
When you have whittled your list down to the companies and people you definitely would love to work for, it’s time to reach out to anyone you know who has any connections to those firms.
Tell your connections that you need them to help you get an interview, or at least an informational talk.
Even if you’re only able to meet someone on the bottom, that’s fine if we’re talking about your dream job. You have plenty of time to work your way up.
Then, when you go in for the interview, tell them you’re ready to do anything. You’d die to get this spot. This chance.
Personally, I love it when someone tells me it’s their dream to work for Steiner Sports. (As long as they can explain why!)
A lot of people talk about casting a wide net in job hunting. I think that leads to a lot of jobs you’ll feel fishy about.
The bottom line with job hunting is that you have to focus on what you really want – and why, and the people you know who can help make it happen.
That's the best way to look for a job.
So start making your focused list now, and get to your “connections” as soon as possible.
You might as well get good at looking for work, because it’s something you’ll be doing for a long time.
Personally, I’ve been looking for work for 40 years and counting!
