Feature
May, 15 2008
Common Job Search Mistakes
by Diane Lang
All you hear about on the news: The United States is in a recession. With the economy losing 80,000 jobs in March, unemployment rising each month, lay offs becoming more and more frequent, retail stores closing down, gas at almost $4 a gallon and all the foreclosures, it's a constant reminder of how the economy is doing. This means no one is safe at their job.
The days of staying at one job and receiving a pension are long gone. Most people will have at least three or four careers in their lifetime. This is especially true for moms. Women start off with a career, then we take time off to stay at home with our kids (Second career) and then we go back to work for our mid-life career.
This means you will be job searching and interviewing a number of different times in your life. There are some common mistakes that you should try to avoid during your job search.
Don't get discouraged - it could take 3-6 months to find a job that you want. It might even take longer - don't lose hope.
Be picky - if you have the option to take your time finding a job, then be choosy. Find a job that matches your values, skills and passion. Don't settle.
Esteem - it's easy to feel rejected and unconfident, if months go by and you don't have a job. If you lose confidence, it can show on a job interview or while networking. Stay confident.
NEVER APOLOGIZE for taking time off to raise your kids. You took time off from the workforce but you were working the most valuable job in the world. Isn't being Mom a Career?
Be proud and talk about all the skills you have gained from being a Mom such as: Organizational skills, time management, multi-tasking, interpersonal skills, etc.
NETWORK - tell everyone you're looking for a job. Networking is how most people get their jobs.
While you are searching for your next job, refresh your skills. Take a class at your community college or adult education program. Workshops are offered for free at your local library. Don't have the time? Almost all colleges have online classes and degree options. Employers like to hear you are busy and motivated, so stay involved through volunteer work. Volunteer work is a great way to freshen up on your skills and confidence.
