A colleague, himself a self-described introvert, asked me to list my top ten tips for introverts to compare with his own. Here’s the list.

Job Search for Introverts Tips: Job Search for Introverts Home Social Networking for Introverts Networking Nugget: Making Networking Work 10 Steps to a Successful Introverts' Job Search Introverts' Job Search Quiz Introverts' Job Search Advantages Alternatives to Self-Promotion Introverts' Guide to Recruiters & Staffing Firms Beating Introvert Interview Fears Introverts' Guide to Large Networking Events 5 Tips for Introverts to Keep Your Network Alive Job Search in a Tight Economy Lessons from Presidential Campaigns Holiday Networking for Introverts New Year's Job Hunt Resolutions Additional Resources: 15-Minute Guide to Job Networking for Introverts

 1.   Be visible. Use social networking and conventional networking opportunities to ensure that you’re on the radar screen of those who can help or hire you.

 2.   Use your preference for deep relationships to listen to others and position yourself as a resource, to make networking less uncomfortable and sometimes even enjoyable.

 3.   Practice your answers to interview questions. By scripting out what you want to say and reviewing your success stories, you’ll find it easier to “think on your feet.”

 4.   To stand out from other candidates and uncover hidden jobs, use your preference for in-depth knowledge to develop a list of target companies and thoroughly research them.

 5.   Develop your self-promotional skills so that you can explain – on paper and in person – the value you can bring to your next employer.

 6.   Balance the solitary job search activities that you will be naturally drawn to with more social activities, since the latter are statistically more likely to result in jobs.

 7.   Schedule recovery time and breaks to recharge your batteries when you are involved in the highly social aspects of the job search process.

 8.   Prepare – for networking events by researching the people you will encounter, to facilitate easier conversations; – for interviews by researching the people, the company, the industry, and the competition.

 9.   Apply your listening skills during an interview to probe for information about the employer so you can evaluate whether the job is a good fit for you.

10.   Keep your eyes on the prize - make conscious choices that bring you closer to your goal, even if some of the necessary activities make you uncomfortable.

For another view on all this, check Marty Nemko’s blog on the topic.

© Copyright Wendy Gelberg, 2009. Used with permission.

About This Author:

Wendy Gelberg is the founder of Gentle Job Search/Advantage Resumes and author of The Successful Introvert: How to Enhance Your Job Search and Advance Your Career. She is a certified career coach and resume writer whose expertise is in helping people who are uncomfortable “tooting their own horn.” Wendy gives workshops, coaches individuals, and writes articles and blogs on all aspects of the job search process. Samples of her resumes and career advice appear in over 20 books. Wendy has owned her business for over 12 years. She has been an introvert her whole life. Contact Wendy at wendy@gentlejobsearch.com.

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