Job Searching in 2010

Although I am not an expert, I know a well structured cover letter and resume are essential in the job search process. I am currently assisting over thirty individuals in their job search in Charlotte. The good – it seems job opportunities are on the increase; the bad - the unemployment rate remains above 10% and is expected to remain constant through 2010. There will still be too many people after too few job openings. I will be sending the following ideas to my connections that are seeking new job opportunities. Note: this information is a summary from posts by recruiters, senior managers, and blogs.

If you are applying for a job, research the company on LinkedIn or other networking sites for employee names and positions – especially in the HR department. This is easy to do on LinkedIn. Find out what groups they (HR or Managers in the area of the position opening) have joined and determine if you have a degree of contact. Networking is the second best way to get your foot in the door. The first is a personal contact reference/recommendation. Use LinkedIn to forge alliances that will help you with your job search. Also, LinkedIn groups have a job post tab and there is an advanced job search method to narrow the search criteria. Submitting your resume over the internet seems like it goes into a black hole to never be seen again. Remember, the HR staff will be reviewing literally hundreds of resumes for a job opening – primarily submitted through the internet. If any connections can be made through social networking, your chances for an interview are enhanced. I would suggest following recruiter blogs for tips and ideas but until then, the following are tips to consider:


1. Title of your email is critical. List the title of the position you are applying for and your name.
2. Your Cover letter should not be an attachment. It should be in the body of the email.
3. Customize your cover letter to the specific job opportunity. Do not use a generic cover letter.
4. Review the job posting for relevant key words that should be used within your resume.
5. Specific key words should also be used in your cover letter.
6. Customize your resume to the position you are seeking.
7. In lieu of an objective, highlight your experience suited to the job in one line.
8. In my opinion from reviewing many resumes and selecting applicants for interviews, I gravitated to the concise and precise resume.
9. After submitting your resume on the internet, follow-up with a specific email to HR or hiring manager – not asking if they received your resume but to emphasize why they should hire you for the job. Be specific, short and to the point.
10. If you have a list of projects, publications, and/or presentation essential to your job search, a separate attachment may be better than including the information with your resume.

I am sure we all have good tips to pass along to others. Please add your comments to this post and share your thoughts. It is up to us to make 2010 a better year for us all.