Job Search Tips for the Shy Candidate

It can be a real struggle for job candidates that are shy and withdrawn.  While they will apply for many positions, they often hope their skills will stand for them and they will not need to step outside their comfort zone and network with anyone.  



If this sounds like you, here are a few job search tips you can use: 

• While networking is probably one of the scariest things you could ever do, you must network.  You have heard the phrase, practice makes perfect and it is true in this case.  The more you network, the easier it will become.  Practice your “elevator pitch,” and put it on the backside of your business cards.  Start by handing out your business cards at a networking event, and slowly work up to actually giving your pitch in person. 
• As you start attending more networking events, look for the opportunity to find a mentor, someone who you connect with.  This will allow you to build a relationship, and give you more confidence in speaking with strangers.  In addition, it is ok to look for opportunities to have a private meeting with someone at a networking event.  As you listen to others, find those that you feel a connection to and ask them to lunch.  If you have trouble asking them in person, make sure you get their business card and email the invite. 
• Take advantage of the internet in your job search.  Because you can interact online with hiring managers, recruiters, company employees, etc., it can help calm your fears ahead of the interview.  Learn everything you can, ask questions, and get to know the people involved in the company.  This will make it less about going in to talk with strangers, as going in to talk with someone you know. 

Just because you are shy, does not mean you cannot network and get the job of your dreams.  Consider these tips to help you overcome your shyness and meet the people that will help you get that job.

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Are Leadership Qualities a Must?

Are leadership qualities a must on your resume?  While there are many different opinions on the importance of leadership qualities, most will tell you that having leadership skills that transfer to other areas are important to hiring managers and recruiters.  Here are a few areas that leadership skills will help with, and that hiring managers will want in their candidates: 

• Being a team player is a trait that every hiring professional wants to see on a resume.  Leadership helps to build this skill and often shows collaboration, conflict management, and team building skills.   
• Communication is a great asset in any job, and the job candidates that can demonstrate they have good communication skills will have an advantage over those who do not.  To become a leader, you typically must have excellent communication and listening skills. 
• How do you handle criticism, as well as hand it out?  Your feedback skills go hand in hand with leadership.  Feedback is critical in today’s work environment; therefore, you must have these skills. 
• Being a leader often involves dealing with sensitive issues.  It is not so much how you dealt with the issue itself, but how you handled the people involved.  Demonstrating the ability to get things done, while still appealing to the empathy of the situation is important as a leader. 
• Leaders take action – this is what most hiring managers are looking for.  It is not about sitting on the sideline while others make the decisions and then you follow – no you are out there making suggestions and leading the fight. 

Leadership qualities are a skill that every hiring manager looks for on a resume.  Do you have any of the qualities listed here?  If so, you might be a leader without really knowing.  Take the time to develop your leadership skills, it will help your career.


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Job Candidate Blogging

Over the last several years, there has been a lot of information and commentary regarding whether job candidates should have a blog when they are searching for jobs. The pros and cons of blogging have been discussed by many, and in the end, job candidates are still unsure whether it is a good idea.  Job candidate blogging may be a good idea for these reasons: 

• While not every position requires the ability to write articles, it is still a good idea to show that you have the ability to put together information.  Whether you enjoy writing or not, having a blog will allow you to show off your writing abilities to potential employers. 
• A blog can show a hiring manager how you feel about certain topics.  Feel free to mix it up and write articles that show your personality.  You can write blog articles about hobbies, how-to articles on skills you use for work, and even your opinion on new or upcoming trends. 
• Your blog can also help you network with others, which could also benefit your job search.  Go ahead and join some networking groups, post comments on other blogs, and always respond to comments on your post.  This also will show potential employers that you can communicate and get along with others. 
• Blogging can help you build who you are, or build your personal brand.  This is useful when a hiring manager does an online search for you.  Yes, they will search you out online!  A blog will show them that you stay active and are current on trends, etc. 

Even if you are not searching for a job today, you should still start a blog.  If and when the time comes to start searching for a job, it will be a great tool to use in showcasing you and your talents.  Get started with a blog today!


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Dispelled Myths for Job Candidates

It is no secret that the hiring process has changed over the last several years.  Whether you are new to the job search game, or have been at it for a while, there are always myths that float around, scaring job candidates.  Here are some dispelled myths for the job candidate:
 

• Contrary to popular belief, it will not help you to blast your resume out there.  Applying for as many jobs as you can, will not guarantee you success or a job offer.  This is one of the oldest myths out there today!  You are better to do your research and apply for only positions that fit you and your career goals. 
• In the past, it was difficult to find good information on employers you were applying to, however, in today’s technologic driven world, information is at your fingertips.  Finding valuable information on a company before you apply, and before your interview is as easy as doing an online search.  The information is out there – go get it. 
• What is important to you in the company you work for?  Your answer is probably different than the person next to you.  Each job candidate has a different set of “must haves” they are looking for, so to say that every candidate is looking for the best company perks is false.  Look for what is important to you! 
• Many job candidates falsely believe that “if they know someone” or “they play the system,” they will get the job.  While networking is incredibly important in finding a job, you still have to prove during the interview that you are the right choice.  Don’t get cocky thinking the job is yours simply because you know someone – put in the work and prove you are the best for the job.  

So many job candidates have fallen for classic myths over the years, if I ask for a lower salary I am sure to get the job, if I have a friend on the inside I am sure to get the job, etc.  While some instances may help you land the interview, it still does not guarantee you the job.  Make sure you know the truth and stay clear of the myths – you will stand a better chance of finding the job of your dreams.

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Welcome Negative Feedback

As you continue through your job search, there is one area which many job candidates steer clear of, getting feedback from hiring managers when they do not get the job.  Instead, you should welcome negative feedback.  When you ask for honest feedback, even if negative, it can help you improve in many ways.



Here are a few tips to keep in mind when asking for feedback: 

• As part of your interview, you know you should always follow up with a thank you, however, if you do not get offered the position, you should follow up again with the hiring manager.  Ask the hiring manager why you were passed over.  Many find it hard to ask this question, but it can reveal information about your interviewing skills, holes in your presentation, or lack of skills for that particular position.  Bottom line, it will give you valuable information. 
• Some job candidates have had good success in asking for feedback at the end of their interview.  Asking for constructive criticism is a great way to show the hiring manager you want to improve and are honestly interested in their opinion.  Be careful you do not turn it into an uncomfortable situation by asking too many questions, but asking how you can improve is a great question. 
• Many recruiting firms will also help you with feedback.  They can coach you through interviewing, give you honest feedback, and help you discern what is important to work on. 

As you gather your feedback, both positive and negative, you should take it seriously.  Are you sensing a common theme in your feedback, is there something you can improve upon, or do you need to sharpen your skills?  Feedback is important during your job search, especially negative feedback.  It may be hard to accept, but in reality, it could be the best feedback you ever receive.


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