Job search isn’t all that different from what it was years ago. And then again, it is quite different. If you are in transition, be sure you understand the intricacies of a modern job search.
In this week’s summary, you’ll find:
- 10 steps for a job search
- Job application saga
- How to explain gaps in work history
- What you need to know about salary research
- LinkedIn’s job applicant numbers are inflated
- You need a value packed pitch
- Career transitions are tough
- Trends impacting careers in 2024
I hope you follow these knowledgeable resources!
JOB SEARCH
If I Were Job Searching Today Here’s the First 10 Steps I’d Take | Jessica Hernandez
Most new job seekers rely on job boards and online applications. Not a bad first step, however, there’s so much more you can do. How many of these 10 steps are you doing?
Job Hunting Sucks. This Programmer Filled Out 250 Applications to Find Out Why | Wired
I bet it takes you more than 2 minutes and 42 seconds to fill out a job application. That was the average time the programmer logged when applying to 250 applications. His “research” found these three things impacted how long the application took: the company’s size, the industry it was part of, and the applicant tracking software it used.
GAPS IN WORK
How To Explain a Career Break | Career Tool Belt
Career breaks have always existed. It seems that society and recruiters are more accepting of this these days. So, here’s how to explain your career break on your resume, cover letter, LinkedIn, and in interviews.
PS: Do not use LinkedIn’s Career Break option for your most recent/current job title. It will hurt how LinkedIn rates your profile. (See Lisa Rangel’s video from last week.)
SALARY
Advice For Researching Your Pay | Katrina Kibben
As wonderful as the new “salary transparency” laws are, you still need to do your research. Here’s what you need to know about reading a range listed in a job posting plus how to research your own pay.
Exposed The Truth About LinkedIn’s Job Applicant Numbers | Jan Tangze
When you look at the number of applicants for a LinkedIn job, do you wonder if those numbers are legit? Here’s some insight and advice from a recruiter. The bottom line: if you are interested in the job then apply!
PITCH
How To Create An 8-Second Elevator Pitch {with samples!} | Briefcase Coach
Different situations call for different introductions. Sometimes your professional pitch is too much for a casual situation. Learn how to develop and deliver a shorter answer to “what do you do?” It’s all about conveying your value in a way that people understand.
CAREER
Why Career Transition Is So Hard | Harvard Business Review
Here’s part of the answer: “Usually we fail to change simply because we don’t know how to go about it. The problem lies in our methods, not our minds.
Career change is iterative. You can’t line everything up in advance. You have to figure things out over time and make adjustments as you go.” – Herminia Ibarra
5 Mega Trends Impacting Careers in 2024 | Marie Zimenoff, Career Thought Leaders
When hundreds of career and job search coaches provide insight, you get powerful information. Here’s the summary of trends, but please check out the full post.
1 – AI in Hiring & Job Search
2 – Working to 100 & Beyond
3 – AI in the Future of Work
4 – Education Trends & Gen Z Careers
5 – Economic & Work Shifts
JOB SEARCH VISUAL
From Employ’s Recruiter Nation Report 2023 – Best Sources for Finding Candidates
Diversify your job search, recruiters do!
DID YOU MISS THESE
How To Answer “What Is Your Dream Job?” (Samples Inside)
30+ Unique Interview Questions
Career Fairs: 7 Best Practices
Never miss an issue of Summary Sunday. Sign up now!
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.