Tips for the job hunt in a down market

Submitted by SHNS on Thu, 08/14/2008 - 16:59.

If you are concerned with job searching in a tight economy, consider the thoughts of Lynne Sarikas, director of the MBA Career Center at Northeastern University's College of Business Administration:

"Gaining an edge is critical in a tight economy. The challenge is standing out in a crowd in a positive way. Going too far can backfire."

Sarikas has the following suggestions:

-- "Write a prompt thank-you note and summarize why you are so well-qualified for this job and how enthusiastic you are about the opportunity. To go the extra mile, have thank-you cards with you. Write it in the lobby of the building after your meeting and go back to the receptionist to drop it off for delivery."

What a wonderful suggestion, guaranteed to make a positive impression!

-- "Bring a professional portfolio of your work. Don't just talk about what you have accomplished. Show them."

Sell accomplishments, not just experience.

-- "If you discussed a particular issue or challenge during your interview, follow up with some ideas and further thinking on to topic. Be careful not to be presumptuous, but let them know you are still thinking about it."

You can include additional selling thoughts in a thank-you note.

-- "If you see a relevant article related to something you discussed, send it as a follow-up with a short note attached."

Always look for an opportunity to sell yourself.

-- "Know your audience and the position you are applying for. If the position requires significant creativity, be more creative in your response. Play off analogies used in your discussion. If they want someone who can hit a homerun, send a note with a baseball."

Be creative, but relevant.

-- "Network like crazy. Find everyone you know who works at the company and ask them to put in a good word with the hiring manager on your behalf."

I thank Lynne Sarikas for these important thoughts and suggest that, tight economy or not, recession or not, Sarikas' tips are worthy for everyone in every job-searching situation. Do what others fail to do. Your search should be the toughest job you have, so work hard, work smart and sell yourself to your next employer.

(Marvin Walberg is a job-search coach. Contact him at mwalberg(at)bellsouth.net, marvinwalberg.blogspot.com, or PO Box 43056, Birmingham, AL 35243.)