ALESSANDRA: I'm starting to realize that finding a job is like the dating game. You put yourself out there, get something that seems promising or get nothing at all, wonder why, then get depressed about what YOU'RE doing (ie "It must be me"). Then again- that's just my female take. I am sure males put themselves out there and when they don't get what they want, they move on.
COMPLETELY DIFFERENT STEPS FOR DIFFERENT PEOPLE:
LINDY: Well, I think job searches and interviewing are very difficult for everyone. I don't believe one gender has it any better than the other. There's an interesting article that Malcolm Gladwell wrote about how first impressions are so important in the interview process. Here's the link. It's helpful to see what employers spark to within the first five minutes.
Perhaps there are some similarities to the dating game. However, what's most effective, is to just get to the point. Say what you want. In your initial email, tell the employer what you are looking for, offer your resume, and ask if it might be possible to meet.
GET TO THE POINT:
ALESSANDRA: I tried that for a company I wanted to work for, and it actually got me an interview. Concise, to the point emails are easier to read and don't waste the person's time.
But... what happens when a job pursuit extends into a month-long courtship of back and forth emails where one meeting happens and things look promising, but you're waiting to seal the deal?
LINDY: There are many reasons why this happens. Most of which has nothing to do with you. Sometimes an employer is just too busy, out of town, pursuing another applicant, changing direction, etc. You just don't know. All you can do is check in periodically. Drop a note and tell the employer that you are still interested in the position. You may or may not hear back, but at least you're letting the employer know you are genuinely interested should he/she decide to offer you the position.
Sometimes it's helpful to have a colleague or friend of the employer make a call on your behalf. Of course you have to know this mutual person well enough to ask them to do this for you. You also might want to tell your peers who work at this company, that you're interested in this position and ask them if they have any suggestions for you. The more people you can get to work on your behalf, the better.
ALESSANDRA: So, it appears that this is all part of the process, which can be very frustrating when you're eager to find a job, and in some cases, really want a particular job. The waiting game can be endless.
LINDY: Yes it can. And frankly, it's more common than you think. And in this difficult environment when there are more applicants than jobs, it may take even longer. That's why it's important to develop entrepreneurial opportunities so you can get more exposure which ultimately will lead to more job opportunities. It's very important to have several plates spinning.
ALESSANDRA: So in the end, pursue the job you want, and check in periodically. Email people YOU want to work with and make those emails CONCISE. It's career courtship. The paperwork is your loving commitment.
THE KEY IS, DON'T BACK OUT TILL YOU GET WHAT YOU WANT...and it may take years...
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