If you are someone seeking a new job, then the end result of an offer letter and confirmed start date can’t come soon enough. Moving quickly allows you to get started with your new job while simultaneously alleviating the stress of finding a new position. The problem, however, is that rarely does a job search seem to go as fast as you would like it.
It is typical for job seekers to place the blame for the slow pace or a delay directly at the feet of employers. Admittedly, companies can “drag their feet” at times, even though it is generally not in their best interest to do so. The reasons for company delays can range from the inability to make up their mind, to summertime vacations wreaking havoc on the ability to interview quickly.
Job Seekers, however, can’t control the actions of an employer when it comes to any delays in filling a position. The effort and focus should be on what the job seeker CAN do to quicken the pace of the process and overall job search.
• Focus On Your Target Interests: A scattershot job search that is unfocused generally results in minimal success. You may think that you are helping your odds by applying for everything, but you are probably creating your own delays. It takes time to apply for a job and if you are applying for everything, that typically means that you are not moving forward for the positions you are interested in and qualified for quickly enough. A better strategy is to target the role(s) and potential employers that you are interested in. This allows you to customize your resume and enhance your networking efforts.
• Get Placed In The “First Pile”: Your goal, when applying for a position, is to get placed in that “first pile” of resumes that will be further reviewed and perhaps phone screened. If you get placed in a second (or even third) pile, then you are (at best) a “maybe”, and your only chance to be spoken to is if the “first pile” flames out. You get placed in the “first pile” when you write a concise resume for a position you are qualified for that clearly outlines your successes. You get placed in the “first pile” when your documents are tailored to the position and employer you are seeking, and your differentiators jump off the page.
• Offer Multiple Contact Options: Once a hiring manager has decided to contact you regarding an open position, you want to make it as easy as possible for this person to connect. Clearly provide both your e-mail address and mobile phone number on your resume, so the company can decide how best they want to reach out to you. If text messaging is something you are open to, then make sure you note this on your cover letter.
• Answer Your Phone: It is difficult to be hired if you cannot be reached, so answer the phone when you are called. If a voice message is left, then answer it as quickly as possible. This is not the time to be screening your calls and playing a game of “hard to get.” The harder you make it for the hiring manager, the more likely they will lose interest and move on to someone who is accessible. Likewise, if you provide your e-mail address, then please make sure to check it regularly and respond timely if contacted by this method.
• Free Up Your Schedule: Employers recognize and understand that, in a situation where you are currently working, you may not be completely available. It does make scheduling more difficult for the employer, however, if you have limited windows of availability to meet, or if you need a long lead-time (perhaps so you can work it out with your current employer or arrange your personal schedule). Especially frustrating for an employer, is when the candidate goes off on a vacation during the process. Not only will this delay any movement, but it will also likely be the cause of your removal from consideration.
• Information Ready: Anticipate what a prospective employer may seek and have it ready for their request. For example, many companies still conduct some type of reference check, so be ready and have a list of people and contact information ready to go. Another example is in a situation where you will need to provide proof of certification or a transcript. Don’t wait until you are asked to provide this information, rather anticipate the request. Similarly, if you are going to be drug screened, then go provide the sample as soon as possible to avoid any delays.
You do not have to play victim to the waiting game when it comes to your job search. Focus on the items you CAN control and do what is necessary to highlight your candidacy in relation to the position you are seeking. Finally, be available when requested and anticipate the needs of the hiring manager. By doing all of this, you should find that you are facing a lot fewer obstacles in your job search.
As always, best of luck in your job search.
The following has been prepared for the general information of WNYJobs readers. It is not meant to provide advice with respect to any specific legal or policy matter and should not be acted upon without verification by the reader.
Joe Stein
WNY Human Resources Professional
Feel free to contact Joe Stein regarding questions or comments at:
Joe Stein
