Integrated Campaign Tactics - con't

Utilise your professional associations
Other members of professional organisations/clubs of which you are also a member can be a wonderful avenue to uncover unadvertised positions. Enquire whether they have any potential contact names, ideas, company information etc to assist you in your campaign. Remember to use your contacts name when introducing yourself to the lead in order to get your foot in the door.

Attend meetings and networking events
Another great strategy that can seize opportunities is to network within your local community. Make a point of getting to know influential persons such as local business leaders, government leaders, commercial real estate professionals and anyone else who can open up further network leads. Do not bring your resume to the meetings, or ask for a job: your networking is all about building and developing relationships. Remember to bring plenty of personal business cards.

Stay informed of local business dealings
Read the business section of your local business paper and business publications. Pertinent information can be gleaned from these publications that can assist you in your job search. In particular, what businesses are moving to the area, commercial leases that have been signed, commercial construction projects, expanding businesses, contracts, mergers, acquisitions and much more. This information is invaluable.

Identify your employment targets
Another critical aspect paramount to the success of your campaign is your ability to identify appropriate employment targets encompassing field/industry, corporation size, location, growth opportunities and other important details.

What is the typical time frame to find a job?
The success of your job search is dependent on a variety of factors: geographical area, career track, industry, and resume exposure/distribution. As previously mentioned, it is important to treat your search as a full-time job if you are unemployed, to create a strategy, and to stay on task. It is also helpful to consult with your family and friends to ensure that you have a positive support group during this time. To relieve financial stress, consider using temporary employment agencies for short-term assignments. Most of all, practice, patience and persistence; landing a good job can often take months. You have already made a wise decision by having a professional write your resume.

Overview of job search strategies

  • Develop a strategy. Plan the steps you will take each day to conduct your job search.
  • Compile a list of possible networking peers. Write down everyone you know who may have a possible lead or connection and make contact with them to explain your circumstances. Set up an informal meeting when appropriate and/or send them your resume(s).
  • If you don't know how a company searches its candidate pool, it is best to send all three versions of your resume. This means attaching the Presentation and Scannable versions, and pasting the ASCII into the body of the email.
  • Post your resume on the Web using major sites, such as seek.com.au, so employers can find you. In addition, search the Web for open positions.
  • Search for jobs in newspaper classified ads or visit newspapers' online Web sites.
  • Research companies regardless of your field; review trade publications, journals, or newsletters if appropriate to your industry.
  • Utilise recruiting firms or headhunters to assist you in your job search when appropriate.
  • Attend job fairs. Meet with industry professionals and distribute your resume.
  • Check status of the position if you haven't heard from the employer. Many companies are just too busy to take telephone calls but you may get your name to the top of the stack by courteously checking.
  • Once you have an interview, be sure to send a professional Follow-up Letter.