Posted under Career Management, Internet Job Search, Interviewing, Job Search, Networking on November 30th, 2007
Occasionally, I am asked to speak to college graduates about the “reality” of a job search. The rules I present to grads are useful to any job seeker.
- Don’t speak to strangers, and that includes HR
- No one thinks you are as interesting (or as smart) as you do
- No one cares about your career but your mom
Don’t speak to strangers…
As a former HR wench, I can say HR is the gatekeeper (and we are good!), and you must try to avoid them to get in the door of your dream company. Contact the department manager or anyone in a decision making position outside of HR.
No one thinks you’re interesting…
A rule to remember when you are networking and interviewing. Keep your responses simple, direct, and short. Listen as well as speak. Be interested in others and ask questions to open a dialogue.
No one cares about your career…
The days of expecting a manager or company to keep your best interests in mind are long gone. The days of mailing out resumes and sitting back to wait for the calls to pile up never were productive. You must be willing to make contacts, follow up, and document your achievements when you do land a job.
OK, these rules might not be as practical as the clean underwear thing, but moms can’t be experts in everything!
Posted by Faith Sheaffer-Thornberry
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