Why it’s important to put structure into your job search: Managing an active search. Part 2

05 Nov Why it’s important to put structure into your job search: Managing an active search. Part 2

Do Your Research

So you’re an expert in your field. In that case you probably already know many of the companies that you compete with – What do you know about them? Would you like to work for them?  Get onto Google, think back to those conferences you’ve attended and put together a list of companies that appeal to you. Talk to us about them and why they interest you.  Chances are we will know them and have some good contacts within the business that we can introduce you to.  If we don’t, we are rather good at making contacts – its what we do!

Recognise your own value

I spoke to a Sales Manager recently within energy efficiency who was a very talented individual and who had closed some significant deals.   We talked it through.  The problem of course is that none of this was expressed on their CV.  Worst still they didn’t seem to realise that the value of a good sales manager is the value of the deals they have closed and the businesses they have done this with. 

If you have certain qualifications, a track record in business development, were the first person to build a 10MW solar park etc. you need to shout about it and communicate this effectively through out your job search. When we work with candidates, we take time to talk this through so we can represent them in the best light and give the best chance possible for being selected to interview. 

You should know your own value.

Keep track of your applications

There is nothing more frustrating for a recruiter who is working tirelessly on behalf of a candidate to find out from a client that they have already received the CV.  Quite recently I spoke to one candidate about a specific role with a specific organisation and we agreed that I would introduce their CV. The candidate had sight of a branded job specification and a link to a website as well as being told first hand who the business was and what they were looking to recruit.  After sending the CV the client informed me that they had already received the CV four times and were not interested. 

Now I appreciate that there are some unscrupulous recruitment consultants operating that darken the industry but this sort of event is something that can be avoided by ensuring you keep track of your applications.

Create a spreadsheet. List the companies you’ve approached and when – then you can chase for feedback and make sure you don’t send your CV out twice.  What view do you think an employer would have of you if they have received your CV on numerous occasions? Yes, you’re quite right.  Your CV becomes diluted.  You look desperate. You can stop that happening of course.