Some of my clients are feeling stuck in their job-searching strategy. They are researching potential employers, tailoring their application materials, and applying to roles (for which they are highly qualified!) quickly, but aren’t moving beyond the application stage. What more can they do? Job-search out loud.
Think of job-searching out loud as a strategy to accompany networking. When you’re job searching, make sure people in your life - from friends and family to the people you regularly see at the dog park, gym, school drop off, coffee shop, church, etc - know you’re looking too! While this can feel uncomfortable, you never know who might be able to connect you to your future job via job listings, introductions, advice, or more!
When someone asks how things are going, avoid the “fine, and you?” comment we are so programmed to make and instead share that you’re job-seeking and encountering a particularly tough market. While you might get well-meaning but unhelpful advice, you may also get emotional support, connections, leads, or more. My clients continue to tell me the power of networks in their successful job-seeking, and by inviting more folks into your job-searching journey you may find what’s been missing in your strategy.
