Change the way you navigate your job search -

Change the way you navigate your job search - As a career coach and blogger, I am constantly seeking inspiration and looking for messages to convert into job search advice for my readers. So, when I watched a commercial for Lexus recently, one sound byte really resonated with me: You cant change traffic, so change the way you drive through it! How true there is so much that individuals do not control. The economy. The weather. The neighbors barking dogs. I bet someone once told you, You cant change other people, but you can change how you react to them. How much happier would we be if we stopped trying to change the things that we cannot alter and instead focused on what we do control our responses? The job market is a case in point. What if job seekers stopped oh woe is me-ing and instead focused on what they DO control the way they navigate their searches. The playing field has changed, and it is important to adjust to the new terrain. Here are some tips to help you take the wheel: Draw Your Own Career Map Identify your goals. You cant get anywhere until you decide the destination! What characteristics and traits make you special? What are you (or do you hope to be) known for in your field? Review trends and industries with career potential and determine if there are matches between your skills and interests and those fields. Instead of cursing a business with a shrinking job market, re-adjust, re-tool and re-train to take advantage of new possibilities. Once you know your direction, optimize your resume. Be sure that it is skill and accomplishment focused, not a list of stuff youve done. (If youve been blaming your age or experience level (too much/not enough) for your lack of interviews, take a good look at your resume. It may be holding you back.) Design Your Vehicle Brand YOU! Once you identify a destination drive there! Learn how to position yourself as the expert in your field. Use all of the tools at your disposal to create a vehicle (your brand it doesnt have to be a Lexus!) that will drive you where you want to go. If you havent looked for a job in a while and/or arent tuned in to managing your digital footprint, its time for a quick lesson in social media. Presenting yourself well both online and in person will help open previously closed doors. Optimize Twitter, LinkedIn, blogs and other social networking tools to make connections and share information. Take the Keys! The key to a successful career is to network generously. There is nothing more important or more useful for your job search. Your success depends on your ability to broaden your professional circles and to reach out to a diverse socio-economic group of people. Professionals who habitually facilitate introductions earn goodwill and reputations as valuable resources and colleagues. Become that professional; it will help you overcome obstacles to career success. Start the Ignition Communicate Your Value Your ability to promote, communicate and connect your value to colleagues and superiors is crucial. Hone this soft skill practice your writing, emailing, speaking, interviewing and presenting skills. Join Toastmasters. Make a point to learn how to communicate well. When you can articulate why your role is vital, you will help secure your future. Confidently Forge Ahead Start Rolling Adjust your rear-view mirror, but keep your eyes on the road! Move forward with your plans knowing that you DO control your career. Is it as easy as reading these steps? No, but if you follow this plan, you will be on your way to managing your job hunt and/or your career with finesse and aplomb! Seize control of what you can! Dont be a victim of circumstances. Drive your own career bus! Have you been able to drive your own career bus? What made the difference for you? If you havent changed the way you are driving through your career or job search, what is holding you back? Let me know if I can help you by writing your resume, teaching you how to network or helping with your interview! Contact me.