If you are a military spouse who is getting ready to PCS or has just landed at a new duty station, consider slowing down your job search to speed up your success.
While it is tempting to get online, upload a resume, and submit it like crazy, don’t!
Instead follow these rules:
First, know that with resumes and cover letters, one size does not fit all.
It doesn’t matter so much if you qualify for many jobs, what matters more is that you are among the best qualified applicants for the ones to which you apply.
So, if your resume is exactly the same for every job and every job is very different, put the brakes on.
Instead, spend extra time tailoring your resume to fewer positions that are similar in nature and that match your real skill set.
Second, say “Here I am” instead of “I am here” by seeking to do what you do best.
Slow down and narrow your job search focus.
Then, apply only for jobs for which you are very qualified and very interested so that your resume will reflect your enthusiasm.
The employer just might feel a little more connected with you if s/he is reading something a bit more exciting than a listing of all the tasks you performed (aka a job description).
Finally, reach out and touch someone in the organization.
Don't be just another electronic applicant. Make every effort to find someone who works in the company and who is willing to offer you insight, assistance and contacts.
The best case scenario for any job applicant is when a current employee, preferably a manager, is able to put a name with a face, voice, or online interaction (think: social media).
The only way for this to happen is to network, network, network!
Bottom Line:
So, slow down your job search, and speed up your success.
© Copyright, 2011, Pamela M. McBride. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
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About This Author:
Pamela M. McBride is an author, career coach, and 20+ year Army wife. Pamela is the author of 2 books: Work It, Girl! and The Mocha Manual to Military Life and a blog, The Work-Life Diva. Learn more from Pamela on the Work It Girl and Working It Military Life Style Facebook fan pages, and follow her on Twitter @PamelaMMcBride.
