Why Can't I Find A Job?

Dear Job-seeking Friends,

From a great article entitled "The Four Key Principles of Successful Job Seekers"

1. Use job search strategies that work. Two of the biggest challenges job seekers face are knowing which job search approaches are the most effective, and figuring out where to start in finding job opportunities. Successful job seekers know that any approach that helps them find and connect with the right people will eventually land them the job they want. Answering want ads and Internet postings have only marginal value. Developing relationships through networking, referrals, informational interviewing, and recruiters gets them closer to, if not right on top of, their ideal job. They know that in a competitive job market, they cannot rely on looking for positions already advertised passively. They actively market themselves to the people who are likely to hire them.

2. Stick to a step-by-step, action-oriented process. The typical job seeker quickly becomes overwhelmed by his or her job search. There are million of things to do, places to look, and people to talk to, but they don't have a system for putting the pieces together. Job seekers who know the score, design and implement a game plan that includes setting a specific and attainable goal, actions steps to take every day or week, and a system to track their progress. If they don't realize the results they want to achieve, they don't abandon this plan. Rather, they make adjustments that get them back on track.

3. Stay motivated in face of frustration and rejection. Rejection letters, no return calls, and outdated information are all part of the normal working day of a job seeker. Most people get frustrated and angry with this every-day occurrence and give up. The successful job seeker sees this as opportunity or a positive learning experience. They don't let the fear of rejection get in the way of their progress. By sticking to their plan, they don't give up during the job search. They are motivated by the goals they've set and nothing will deter them from that accomplishment.

4. Know when to ask for help. Looking for a job can sometimes be the loneliest job in the world. Uncertainty and doubt set in with many a job seeker when things don't go right. Perhaps even a sense of pride sets in and the thought of asking someone for help makes them feel like a charity case. Conversely, successful job seekers know that they cannot do this alone. They stack the odds in their favor by adding some outside help to their job search campaign. They want to be accountable to someone other than themselves. They need to get a different point of view, or perspective, on their progress or challenges. And, they seek out support from people who care about their progress or help them develop the tools they need to win.

The next time you ask yourself or someone else, "why can't I find a job," you now know all is not lost. Implementing a solid action plan, sticking to your goals, and seeking help when you need it most, puts you in charge of your destiny.

Simply put, you are just a few steps away from being a success.

Smooches,
Adam