Job Search Lessons From Predator
I may have a staid background recruiting for large Fortune 500 firms, but I am also a big fan of science fiction monster movies. Remember Predator? In fact, there are job search insights to be gleaned from this film. I liken Predator’s versatility to what it takes to be successful in today’s market:
Predator can be invisible or not. Sometimes you have to do massive PR for your search, and sometimes it’s better to be invisible. When you meet someone for the first few times and you want to establish an ongoing relationship, make your job search aspirations invisible. When you’re at your dream employer and they ask you to tell them about yourself, remember to turn your visibility back on. Too many candidates disappear like Predator and don’t sell themselves.
Predator’s got the net, the spear, brute strength, a whole variety of weapons. Jobseekers have phone, email, mail, and in-person to communicate; resume, online profile, writing samples, websites and testimonials/ references to market; work experience, classes, extra-curriculars and personal examples to go into detail. Be flexible and versatile in your methods. Pick what’s best for what you want to accomplish, not just what makes you more comfortable.
Predator follows the heat. There is definitely room in the job search for cold calling. It is often necessary and can be very effective. But using referrals and networking to get warm leads is more efficient, especially at the internship and entry levels. So by all means, draw up your ideal company wish list but don’t forget to scout out the opportunities all around you.
The enemy of my enemy is my friend. Remember that line? For your job search, you should. Buddy up with your classmates in your search. In some ways, you may be competing. But you are all fighting the same fight — you are all trying to break into the marketplace. You are not going to be perfect for every job, and many times what’s right for your peer isn’t right for you. So help them when you can, you gain a positive reputation, and in turn you help yourself.
Caroline Ceniza-Levine is co-founder of SixFigureStart, a career coaching firm that specializes in working with Gen Y young professionals. Formerly in corporate HR and retained search, Caroline most recently headed campus recruiting for Time Inc and has also recruited for Accenture, Citibank, Disney ABC, and others.
Website: http://www.sixfigurestart.com
Article courtesy of the Recruiting Blogswap, a content exchange service sponsored by CollegeRecruiter.com, a leading site for college students looking for internships and recent graduates seeking entry-level jobs and other career opportunities.
Article originally posted on Sweet Careers
