Executing an Effective Job Search Campaign – Tip 5 of 10
Trying to identify and secure a new role is hard enough but launching a campaign without clear focus and thorough preparation will invariably lead to a less than optimal result. Therefore, your pre-campaign preparation should include:
- A Career Search Objective that answers the question, “So, what are you looking for?”
- A powerful CV, Capability Profile and LinkedIn profile aligned to your objective and a comprehensive set of marketing messages.
- The actions you need to take to respond effectively to advertised positions, approach head-hunters and recruiters, make targeted direct approaches and network confidently.
- How to manage the interview so that you optimise impact, credibility and fit.
- How to negotiate effectively to increase the offer and secure other benefits.
Assuming that you can tick the above 5 points, over the next 10 weeks we will be sharing with you 10 things you can do to ensure that your job search is an effective one.
Tip 5 of 10: PLAN YOUR ENVIRONMENT
Set aside a space where you can work, keep your records and, ideally, be away from the hubbub of the rest of the house. An office is ideal, but a desk in the corner of a bedroom or dining room is fine. If possible, avoid areas such as the kitchen and sitting room where the distractions are too numerous.
Check that your voicemail message is professional and clear on any of the numbers you are going to use as a contact telephone number (home, mobile etc).
Similarly, with many people using Teams, Zoom, Skype and other virtual meeting platforms, ensure that your public profile, URL, username etc., reflects the right image.
Set up a system so you can put your hand at once on the right information when someone calls to say, ‘is this a convenient time to talk about your application for XYZ position?’
If you are between positions, like other home-based workers, you may start feeling lonely, missing the buzz of a busy office and day-to-day contact with others. Try to balance your referral meetings so you don’t go for more than a day or two without seeing someone – even if only remotely.
One of your other aims is to recruit new members to your network, so where possible attend meetings of local groups, get involved in the Chamber of Commerce, go to networking events, and participate in your professional association etc.
So, managing an effective job search campaign might not be as daunting as you first thought and may not require anything more than a fresh perspective. It sounds simple and it is, it’s just not always easy, especially when trying to do it alone.