The 12 Steps

July 15th, 2010

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We’ve all heard of the “12 Steps” that are recommended for people with addictive behavior. Well, these days the somewhat bleak economic outlook (although there are signs it may be improving) would be enough to drive anyone to pull out those “12 Steps” in order to stay on the right path. That got me thinking… what are the 12 Steps that people should think about as they navigate the muddy job market during these troubling times? All of the normal preparation and intensity of looking for a job, having a great interview and how to handle “follow-up” is now 10 times more critical with the marketplace being so congested. There are great candidates on the market who would not normally be looking for a job due the numerous layoffs we’ve been hearing about in the news the last two years. It’s enough to drive anyone crazy. Have no fear – there is now the “12 Steps to Finding a Job in a Down Economy”.

Step 1 – Don’t Hibernate: Everywhere you go, from a coffee shop to a school alumni event presents an opportunity to connect with a potential contact. Stay visible – you don’t want to fall off the radar.

Step 2 – Get Organized: Catalog and organize your industry contacts such as recruiters, colleagues and friends.

Step 3 – Your Resume: Never leave home without it – being prepared is everything. Keep an updated resume on your iPhone or Blackberry at all times so you can send it out immediately.

Step 4 – Do Your Homework: Research more than just the basics on companies. You’ll need to find out – and understand – how the recent economic changes have affected that firm. Read press releases, annual reports, media coverage, industry blogs and consult with trusted members of your network. Do not forget to research the person you are interviewing with.

Step 5 – Network, Network, Network: Don’t assume people in a different profession can’t help lead you to a potential contact in your profession. Request exploratory interviews when someone tells you there are no current open positions. Additionally, consider startups, spin-offs and fast growing small to midsize companies.

Step 6 – Look & Act the Part: Dress professionally for all interviews regardless of how casual the environment is. It is still a job interview and you want to present yourself as polished as possible. Never bad-mouth a previous boss or colleague.

Step 7 – Focus on Bottom Line Results: Even if you are not in sales, it is critical to highlight the work you’ve done that directly improved business development, revenue and improved production and/or negotiations.

Step 8 – Do Not Bring Up Pay: In a recession, employers are going to be very price sensitive. In an interview, the salary you ask for may impact their decision going forward. If asked about pay, instead of stating a figure or range, you might say that money isn’t your primary concern and that you are looking for something that is fair.

Step 9 -Take Caution With Follow Up: Consider your audience and determine if a hand-written thank-you note or e-mail is appropriate. Look closely for spelling and grammatical errors. In a competitive job market, employers have the luxury of choice and even a minor error can hurt your chances. A well-written e-mail is appropriate for follow-up.

Step 10 – Don’t Stalk the Interviewer: Call hiring executives only at their office, even if their business card lists a home or cell number. These days, nearly everyone typically has caller ID and can tell if you’ve tried reaching them multiple times without leaving a voicemail.

Step 11 – Polish Social Networking Skills: Leverage appropriate social networking websites to find out about new potential industry contacts and open positions. Many companies are now Tweeting out their job openings as well as listing them on company Facebook “fan” pages.

Don’t undermine yourself with inappropriate content on your social networking web pages. Feel free to review my own LinkedIn profile as an example.

Step 12 – Stay Encouraged: Searching for a job in a down economy requires a strong backbone. Don’t waste energy nursing a bruised ego and instead focus on building relationships.

If you follow these 12 Steps, you will stand out as a “top tier” candidate. Good luck!

Tagged with: HR, job search, advice

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