Take a positive approach in your job search!
By Martin P. Buckland

Finding a job today can be a full time proposition in itself!

Here are some tips to advance you on that path.

• Make it a fun task, don’t let it drag you down; yes, there will be disappointments and a period of uncertainty. Don’t regard it as a burden, look at it as another positive leap in your career.
• Assess your strengths and skills; the answers might seem obvious at first, but we all have hidden talents! For sales careers, people skills are critical. Ask your spouse or friends to write down what they consider to be your talents. Listen to them, they will be your ally during a career move.
• Does your résumé sell you? Is it the correct format? Choose between a combination, functional or reverse chronological format; all have their own place and are interpreted differently by human resource personnel. Are all your strengths and accomplishments outlined? The résumé has to get your foot in the door, so spend many hours on this critical career tool!
• Have the confidence to sell yourself; be proud of your work history and education; carry a positive attitude throughout.
• Review all options; the print media and Internet online job postings and boards are just a part of the overall picture. It is a known fact that only 26% of jobs are advertised. Utilize your cold calling skills; network with your peers; join associations relevant to your career; target market. Seek the guidance of a career coach or other professional who can assist you with career strategies if you feel the need.
• Have your references ready should you be called for an interview; brief the references on your career goals.
• Be clear about what you want! Do you want to sell widgets or do you want to sell machinery? If it’s machinery, what type of machinery? Are you willing to relocate? If so, where? Have you discussed this option with your spouse? Don’t make the wrong choice!
• Look for opportunities and be proactive; a door won’t open unless you play a part and open yourself to possibilities. Be able to respond to opportunities quickly; don’t delay in responding to advertisements or telephone calls.
• Work on your presentation and interview skills: practice, practice, practice. Role play with a friend all possible scenarios you are likely to face in an interview and remember it is OK to feel nervous. Take deep breaths and apply relaxation methods. Listen to the relaxation tapes on your drive to the interview. Be there at least 15 minutes early; take extra copies of your résumé and your references sheet. If you are concerned about prospective interview questions, again seek the support and guidance of a professional interview tutor.
• Take the initiative to research the company exhaustively; identify their corporate culture; review the last three annual reports; look at the website and generate as much information as you can about your prospective employer.
• Present yourself with power and flair; introduce yourself with a firm handshake; take control of the room! Thank the panel for the opportunity to fill the position. Carry the interview by answering questions naturally. Exchange ideas and build rapport with the panel.
• After the interview always send a thank you letter. This will briefly summarize the discussion, highlight again what you can bring the company and thank the panel for their time. It’s also another marketing tool; your name again becomes first and foremost.

The above tips are just a brief summary of your job search strategy. Make use of every family, social and business connection to inform people that you are actively searching for and serious about finding a new career.

Stay positive! Have Fun!

Martin Buckland and his company Elite Résumés has gained a reputation across North America as a leading résumé writer, career coach, job search strategist and interview tutor. Based in Oakville, Ontario, Martin currently holds the following credentials: Certified Professional Résumé Writer, Certified Employment Interview Professional and Job & Career Transition Coach. You can reach Martin by visiting his website www.AnEliteResume.com