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I answered the following query on Quora I’d like to share. The inquiring person contacted me after I posted to share additional thoughts, but in a job search rut, you can’t stop asking questions:
If you’re applying to just any job listed, stop it! It’s futile. I know many people want to use the easiest and most passive method —online job boards. I am assuming this is the case when your job hunt has lasted a year and as you’ve said, “…gone cold.” There is no other way to accept your query other than you filling out 30 applications a week. I’ll repeat it, stop it! It’s wasting time.
The other thing you say is your job search is in a rut. There are too many things to do in a job search in 2017 for it to go in a rut. I can visualize you are asking for a job and not for intel on who to meet to take you to the next step. Although I understand a job search is long and hard depending on the career goal, yes, but ultimately says you’re bored. No leads. No new people in your network who can put you on a path to a referral. A rut.
Ultimately you want to focus on what you want to do and where. It probably counters all the advice most will give, but a single-minded approach is better than casting a wide net. Most job seekers find it hard to become that focused.
Assuming you’ve done nothing else, here are some short term and long term suggestions to help you or anyone in a similar predicament:
Focus
There are enough strength assessments like Strengthsfinder for you to narrow down the professional and personal attributes to build your next career around.
Tighten up on finances
See what expenditures you need to cut back on for the long term. It’s likely the time you’re out of work, and you’re losing money
Focus on self-improvement
There are podcasts, blogs, and other free online tools to help you grow and increase your skills. Employers love the perpetual learner and
Volunteer
Since you don’t have a job, you can create a relevant experience through charity. If there is a career field you’re interested, then you can explore options by offering your time. This can also be positioned as a job especially if it’s something you’re interested in doing. For more, check out this podcast
Improve communication skills
If you haven’t been writing, then you need to get moving. Companies may have you complete a few assessments before seeing you in person. Many times a writing assessment is done online
Practice interviewing
You’ll likely need someone to help you remain sharp in responding to questions. Unless you’re job interviewing regularly, start practicing
Network incessantly
This is the most important and the one needing to be the priority. Every social situation has potential to bring you towards your next employer. Don’t be desperate and don’t act destitute. Be open, friendly, and helpful. If you’re networking regularly, your job search rut will go away.
Become a Linkedin all-star
I hope you are as diligent with your Linkedin profile as you’ve been with your resume. There are so many Linkedin articles I won’t expand here. But if you haven’t looked at in the last six months, make it a priority to complete with a photo
Informational interviews
This is a powerful strategy for you to use as a networking tool and a way to find out the qualifications you need once decide what you want to do. This article is one of the best on informational interviewing.
There are other strategies to benefit from, but you can start here. Good luck and keep us posted. I apologize for some of the grammar errors which I’ll come to edit later, but I wanted it to get it out there for you or anyone needing additional specifics.
About Mark Anthony Dyson
I am the "The Voice of Job Seekers!" I offer compassionate career and job search advice as I hack and re-imagine the job search process. You need to be "the prescription to an employer's job description." You must be solution-oriented and work in positions in companies where you are the remedy. Your job search must be a lifestyle, and your career must be in front of you constantly. You can no longer shed your aspirations at the change seasons. There are strengths you have that need constant use and development. Be sure you sign up to download my E-Book, "421 Modern Job Search Tips 2021!" You can find my career advice and work in media outlets such as Forbes, Inc., Fast Company, Harvard Business Review, Glassdoor, and many other outlets.