Phase I of the search includes soliciting jobs with companies. All methods used to initially contact and possibly achieve an interview with an company are included in this phase.
Part of phase I involves coming up with a few ways of giving myself an edge. Reading articles, asking 'experts' (for my purposes, I consider an expert to be anyone who already has a position in their field) and lots and lots of leg work. I've also come up with a few--probably dead end, but possibly fruitful--unconventional job search methods.
It's time to see which of these strategies is the best. I'll measure success based on which methods carry me into phase II.
The methods:
- Searching Job Postings. I've found over a dozen such sites, which I will list later. Each day I will go over the recent posts (from the past 24 hours) on each site, and apply for positions for which I qualify.
- Posting my resume. Again, back to the dozen sites. The majority of sites allow for resume postings for passive job searches.
- Networking. I've started volunteering at the library, taking dance classes. And, finally, I've been getting to know Henk's coworkers as well as I can; even sending my resume with Henk to work to give to HR.
- Self employment. Sounds like a challenge (and it would be), but I have a few methods that I've decided to employ for this. Henk's coworkers' wives are in Germany or Michigan, and might see value in paying someone to make them a healthy lunch or keep their shirts ironed. I will have to come up with a cost structure, if this becomes the case.
- Job fairs. Just that. Preparing for them, finding them, and attending.
- Imaginary Jobs. I won't limit myself to jobs that are already advertised, I'll make a few up! After reading a bit about companies in which I'm interested, I contact them to propose working from them in a capacity that suits my abilities and their perceived needs.
After the initial contact comes the interview period. This is when companies and I determine if we are right for one another. Much like a blind date, we each go in with the rosy pictures painted by our profiles (they have my resume, and I have their website) and hopefully get past those basic facts and on into the meat of the issue. Will I fit in their company; do we each offer what the other is seeking?
A component of Phase II is evaluating just how selective I can afford to be. How much do those credentials that I managed to rake up in University set me apart from the rest of the pack that seems to be accepting any position that comes their way?
Another component of Phase II is interview techniques and abilities. Although I am not convinced that every position I interview for will be the perfect career for me, I plan to approach every interview with the same professionalism and learn from every success and mistake that occurs during the process. This will include accepting any interview and using it as a practice opportunity. I will also keep track of questions that will help me to determine whether I will have a positive relationship with an employer.
Let the hunt begin!
