Let’s face it; the single most important stress factor to any job seeker is financial. “Will I find a new job before I run out of cash?” Will I deplete my savings? Will I lose my home? All are very real possibilities which can be overwhelming. To be sure, the worst case will result if one becomes paralyzed by those thoughts and fails to engage in the process. Realistically, this is uncommon for accomplished professionals who have overcome challenges throughout their careers. You have the personal attributes and skill sets to be successful in your job search. Your goal is to find the best possible situation in the least amount of time, resulting in minimal disruption to your life style.
I am a planner by nature, and by training. When I am faced with a new or challenging situation my fallback position is to execute the problem-solving/planning cycle. Analyze your situation; evaluate options, set goals; track activity; re-assess; make adjustments; then set new goals. Developing a plan, committing that plan to paper, and working that plan gives me a measure of comfort which helps manage my stress level. So, while in job search I employed my organization and planning skills which never failed me.
The starting point for your plan is to assess your skills and experiences. Then, determine where your background matches opportunities requiring your profile. The obvious starting point is to find another employer in the same industry segment, doing the same job. But, that is just a place to start. In all likelihood the best opportunities will be somewhat different from your last situation. It is likely that a smaller, emerging company in a different segment will be your next employer.
Elements to factor into your plan:
· Establish a realistic time frame to find a job which includes the worst case scenario.
· Clearly define your compensation and geographical requirements
· Clearly define your primary and secondary employer targets
· Ensure that your primary strategy involves networking
· Build an effective yet flexible weekly routine
· Keep a diary
· Communicate, communicate, communicate
My average search takes 90 days from start to finish. Depending on the complexity of the assignment and the season of the year, a search can vary by 30 days, plus or minus. I tell people in job search that the old adage of one month of search time for each $10K of salary is still appropriate. This statistic should help the job seeker develop a realistic time frame for their search. For most people, especially those who have neglected their networks, it may take up to 90 days just to reassemble and engage your network. Most jobs are still filled via networking activities so, prepare to spend 80% networking.
An important element to the success of any plan is a system to track your effort and results. Job search is no different. Keep a record of who you have talked with, the nature of that discussion and follow up issues. Analyze your efforts. If your plan seems to be working, stay on it. If it needs some adjustments, make those adjustments and establish new goals. Write down your thoughts and feelings for successes and failures. Plan your work and work your plan. This is the single most important way to ensure a successful job search, and minimize your stress.
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Jim Weber, President
New Century Dynamics Executive Search
www.newcenturydynamics.com