Conflict exists in job search; both internal conflict and external conflict. The “why” is not nearly as important as how you resolve the conflict. Like it or not, job search is not black and white. It is very very grey.
Personal Conflict
“I don’t know what I want to do next!”
Are you saying this? Have you said this?!
I hear it more often than almost any other dilemma. This is an easy excuse that rolls off the tips of many job seekers.
How you go about resolving this is up to you and it isn’t easy.
Just be sure you will stop saying it soon. It will be close to impossible to move forward with your search until you’ve resolved this one!
Here is a post that might help get you unstuck Career Change Isn’t An Exact Science. Or you can skim through the posts listed on this page: self-assessment.
Conflicting Job Search Advice
Apply for lots of jobs online vs. network.
I actually don’ think anyone is saying this, but it is what many job seekers choose to hear or believe. You can and should do BOTH!
It isn’t an “either” “or” thing.
The conflict most likely happens around how you will structure your time and fit it all in. Or it comes from not feeling comfortable with networking. You can check out all the articles I’ve written about networking here.
Conflicting Resume Advice
One page is better, use an objective, hire someone to write it for you…You hear all sorts of advice given about what changes you should make to your resume.
Always consider the source. Always be polite and avoid debate.
You can see what a modern resume looks like here.
It is about personal preference (theirs and yours)
Personal preference influences these mandates, which, as you realize, are not mandates at all. Some final thoughts as you grapple with everyone’s expert advice, consider asking yourself these questions:
- Is it based on facts or emotions?
- What qualifies this person to provide this advice?
- What’s the logic behind the advice?
- Has it been successful for others?
- What do I have to lose by trying it?
I hope this helps you understand that conflict during job search happens and that it’s up to you to ask questions to resolve it.
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
