No Luck in a Great Job Market?

I recently received a call from a friend who was concerned that he was not having any luck landing a new job in the current strong job market. I talked to him through the following evaluation process, which I think is helpful of anyone going through a job search. While space does not permit a detailed discussion of each cause at this time, I will address them in future issues.

Condition: No interviews
Causes:

Ineffective resume

Unmarketable skills

Weak search efforts

Poor selection of target jobs

Condition: Interviews, no offers
Causes:

Poor interview preparation

Poor interview skills

Poor interpersonal skills

Appearance

Lack of focus or commitment by the job hunter

Condition: Offers, but no match
Causes:

Interviewing below your level and market value (that is, overqualified)

Unrealistic expectations

Fear of job change/commitment by the job hunter

The point of providing this summary view is to illustrate that my friend's problem is likely made up of several parts. As you encounter job hunting dilemmas, breaking them down into components may help identify their specific cause. Watch for future tips that explore each component in more detail.

Frank Schoff specializes in recruiting networking and telecommunications professionals at both the technical and managerial levels. If you are interested in discussing career opportunities, or if you need assistance with your recruiting efforts, or if you simply want to debate the merits of Frank's career tips, he would like to talk to you. He can be reached at (800) 892-4118.

Working the room
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Play both sides of the fence with contract and permanent jobs
Many IS workers know it is not a question of which type of work to choose but when. Network World, 6/30/97.

The Resume Writing Center from Career Mosaic.com

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High-tech jobs in Atlanta, Carolina, Chicago and Texas.