Resume Writing Blog: Creating Prints

Networking is Key in Finding a Job in a Challenged Job Market

You've heard it before, "Network in order to optimize your job search." How exactly do you go about it? It depends on the way you best build relationships and the industry you are targeting. Is the industry you seek employment in best penetrated online or offline? It is not as difficult as it seems. We are all human and we all want to help each other. The idea is to get in touch with as many people you can (in the right channel), make a connection, gain their trust, cultivate the relationship, and earn a good lead. It is as easy as pie! :-)

There are a myriad of ways to begin networking (just Google it so you see what I mean). Yet, if you walk away with anything after reading this post, I want you to walk away with this:

• Be aggressive but polite
• Get your creative juices flowing -- think outside of the ordinary
• Employ all strategies available to you (in person, online), even if it makes you uncomfortable. You will soon be comfortable in your new zone
• Value every contact you come across whether they provide you a job lead or not. Engage, listen, and help them too!
• Keep track of whom you have met, where you have met them, and keep notes on what you most remember about them
• Follow up and thank everyone that attempts to help you

Below, I have listed great blog posts on networking, which I have read during the past few days. Also, watch the following video for great networking / job searching tips.
 
Think positive, keep at it, strategize, and you will find a new career! As always, if you have any questions, email me rvargas@creatingprints.com

Interesting and helpful blog posts on networking / job searching:

Who Does Your Grandma Know? 
What to do in an effective networking call!
by Harry Urschel (Twitter @eExecutives) 

What Network? Finding Your Network
by Liz Ryan (Twitter @Lyzryan)

Looking for a job? Use old-fashioned marketing techniques – be where they are!
By Miriam Salpeter (Twitter @Keppie_Careers)

Prepare Network Cards
Network Online 
By Rosa Vargas (Twitter @resumeservice)  

Rosa E. Vargas
Master Resume Writer
Creating Prints Resume Services

Resume Writing: Ready, Set, Go!

There is major trouble ensuing in the job market! The problem? No, it is not the lack of jobs, the competition, or the unpredictability of the jobs you can find! Oh no, the issue I'd like to bring to your attention is the haste in which job seekers are approaching the writing of their resume. In turn, sabotaging their job search and creating conflict in their career plans! 

Whatever you think resume writing is...it is not a race, people!  In order to overcome the challenges I mentioned above, you must mesmerize your new employer and hold their attention long enough to brew in them the desire to call you. So, before you put pen to paper, contemplate the following:

Self-Reflection before Resume Writing

What do I want in a job?
How would I describe my ideal job?
What has my career progression (or lack of) been like?
What have I learned from my experiences?
Who am I at work and where/how do I best succeed?
What are my marketable skill sets?
Why are these skills marketable?
To which companies would I be an asset and why?
What do I need to sidestep?
(Ready for the most important question?)
What benefits do I offer employers over other QUALIFIED candidates?

There you have it. Please, before you rush into resume technique, layout, and race to the finish line of a completed resume, invest time in the resume prep and research process. Reflect on who you are, what you want, and where you would like to navigate with this new resume.  Employers and recruiters will connect with the person behind the resume--if you can show them there is one! Boring, mundane, and hastily written resumes sound generic; but you are distinct! Become strategic in your job search.

The result will be a targeted, well crafted, and amazing resume that attracts interview calls in a tough job market...and brings a smile to your face in the process (just an extra little benefit).

 

Rosa Elizabeth Vargas
Creating Prints Resume Writing Services
Master Resume Writer