Continuing our ongoing discussion on Why a Job Search Plan is Essential, let’s discuss the importance of Developing Target Companies and Contacts Lists.
Tired of browsing random employment ads? Targeting Companies and key contacts is a sure way to take a proactive role in your job search. Targeted lists are key in maintaining focus and accountability in your search. Also, you can identify potential employers that meet your professional standards and personal style. Developing a list of Contacts can help you to identify inside sources at the companies you target as well.
Your Target Companies and Contacts Lists would be the “who” you are marketing too! Develop a list of companies within industries that you feel would be great places for you to work. You can start this process by exploring Products and Services that you would like to work around or be a part of.
In addition, develop a list of people you know that could positively impact your search. This is how you tap into the “hidden job market.” 80% of your job search should focus on exploring the “hidden market” by networking with someone they know, or even taking the risk to network with someone they don’t know. 20% of your job search efforts should include reviewing advertised positions, such as Job Search Engines, and Newspaper Ads.
Networking gets your foot in the door. Networking opens doors to informational interviews, which may lead to a Hidden Market job opportunity!
Many have asked the question, "Why do I need a plan to search for a job" My answer is "Why Not?"
The purpose of a Job Search Plan is to develop key goals and a strategy to achieve them. Developing long term and short term goals and steps to achieve them will keep you focused and on track. It's like developing a Business Plan! You are the product so you need to know what marketing materials you will use, who you would like to market your product to, and what specific steps you will take to sell your product. Initially, let's look at a key component of your Job Search Plan:
Develop Marketing Tools
This includes your Resume, Cover Letter, Handbills, and Social Media outlets. Your cover letter and resume are usually the first connection you make with an employer. Therefore they MUST send a message. Your marketing tools should send the message that, "I'm the one you should meet with face to face for an interview" or "I have an excellent background, SO CALL ME, so you can gain more insight into what I have to offer your organization." Handbills are small business card type networking flyers you leave with someone after briefly meeting them at an event, networking opportunity, etc. This offers you the opportunity to remind them of who you are and your conversation. Your web-based marketing would include Social Media Networking tools such as LinkedIn, Facebook and even Twitter. Many recruiters are searching for their "Next Top Candidate" by using LinkedIn as their primary source. Spend a generous amount of time developing your Top Notch Marketing Tools, so employers will like what they see, before they even see it!
Job Search Plans work!
"To be prepared is half the victory." - Miguel de Cervantes