Searching for a Job? Use Your Time to Build Professional Resources.

by Elizabeth Kirwin

With unemployment figures at 6.1% in August, there is great concern among the jobless about their financial future. Though internet job posting seems convenient and opens up new possibilities, the competition is so fierce, it is not unusual for an employer to receive 300-600 resumes for one posting. Since most companies do not have the staffing or time to answer these inquiries, job seekers tend to feel like they are casting their resumes into a great void. Steve Hall, a 14 year Certified Personal Consultant with Find Great People in Greenville, South Carolina, has witnessed disappointment in internet job hunters. “When job seekers spend a great deal of time applying for jobs and receiving no word, it tends to weaken their self-worth,” said Mr. Hall.
Spending five to eight hours per day on-line searching creates a sense of isolationism, too. “Most job seekers would be better served to balance their time behind the computer with an effort to meet with people and build a network of professional resources,” said Mr. Hall. He suggests volunteer work geared toward the job seeker’s profession with a charitable organization. “For example, an accountant could visit the Red Cross, a state boy’s home, or a church and offer to do bookkeeping,” Mr. Hall suggested. “This would have professional benefits. It will keep professional skills sharp and enable the job seeker to build a soft skill -- which is interacting with people. By volunteering skills and expertise, the person may meet somebody that will lead to employment,” added Mr. Hall.
Another activity that could stimulate job leads is participation in a weekly network group. “If you want to start a group in your area, rally a support group through professional associations,” recommends Mr. Hall. It’s important to find people of like minds, with similar passions, and in close proximity for weekly lunch or coffee meetings. “This interaction with colleagues and peer groups will allow the job seeker to hear about positions that may not be posted.” said Mr. Hall.
Belonging to a network group composed of those with similar professional interests could make job hunting a little less stressful. The network

Steve Hall has been a professional recruiter with Find Great People International (http://www.findgreatpeople.com), in Greenville, South Carolina, for 14 years. He specializes in IT and manages consultants in apparel, finance and health care. Steve has averaged a 3 to 1 interview to hire ratio, while the industry standard is 7 to 1.