Unconventional Job Search Techniques – Standing Out From The Crowd

One figure standing out from the crowd. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

In the current economy, having a stable job is something to be thankful for. But what if you are currently unemployed? Perhaps you want a job that will be more satisfying or fit your family’s needs better than your current job. What can you do to gain the edge and stand out in this environment of limited employment openings? Sometimes using job search techniques that are unconventional can help you land the job you want.

Social Networking Works

The old saying that “It’s not what you know, but who you know” holds some truth. About  27% of external hires are from referrals. Also, about 1 out of 15 referrals ends up getting hired. So it’s a good idea to let acquaintances know that you are currently looking for new employment. Ask them to keep their eyes and ears open for possible employment opportunities that may fit your niche. These days, it’s so easy to electronically spread this request around to those you know. Social and professional networking websites are a great way for you to simply ask for the aid of your friends’ eyes and ears in your search for new employment. It can have a ripple effect, because they might know some who knows someone else (and so-on), who is hiring for a position for which you are qualified.  When selecting people to be your contacts, it really helps if they have social or business connections with people in your desired niche.

Make A Website

Usually, carrying around a large portfolio of your best work is impractical, if not impossible. Consider making a simple website that contains your updated resume’ and shows off your work. Websites can do things that paper sometimes can’t. If part of your portfolio includes video or sound, a website is a perfect way to share. It’s also easier and less expensive than carrying around a thumb drive with your saved work on it, just in case someone you meet is interested in seeing it. With each piece in your portfolio, you can make annotations or even narrations about the purpose and process of creating each piece, and why it is unique and important.

Business Cards Are Great Wallet-Stuffers

As you meet people in your travels, at social gatherings, or while doing daily activities, a common conversation topic is employment. Having a business card handy in your wallet is a simple way to spread your name and help the other person recall you and the conversation that you shared with him or her. They may be able to pass on your name to a potential employer. Make sure your card has powerful information such as your portfolio website, as well as accurate contact information. Make sure that your business card contains at least 2-3 ways that a person may contact you. You can share your card electronically for people you are not face to face with.

Keep Up The Good Work!

It’s still a good idea to use some of the more conventional methods of job-hunting, but using a few unconventional strategies may give you the edge over other applicants. Pick a couple of ideas and add them to the methods you are already using, and just work steadily. Eventually it will pay off.

Jason Kay is a professional website builder and recommends that everyone create a resume website.