During a job search, it is advisable to do a check-up periodically. Here is my 5-Point Check-Up. Let me know how you do.
1 - Focus: Are you pursuing target companies that are of interest to you, by researching them, following them on LinkedIn, and inviting people who work there to connect with you? Are you focused on your objective (what you want)? Are you focused on your brand (what you are known for)? Are you focused on your value proposition (why they should hire you)?
2 - Activity: How are you using your time? Time is a precious resource. Are you applying to posted jobs that are published on Indeed, Dice, LinkedIn and your target company websites? Are you prospecting to find the hidden job market of needs that employers have that you could be the solution to? Are you following up with each person you meet: in interviews? at networking meetings? recruiters you have spoken with? Are you using each interaction as an opportunity to display your brand and your value proposition?
3 - Learning: Are you enhancing your area of expertise through learning? Are you sharing your expertise with others? Are you learning from each interview? Each rejection? Remember that each disappointment carries a lesson to be learned.
4 Visibility: Are you active on social media especially LinkedIn? Are you attending local networking events? Are you participating in professional groups in your field? Are you volunteering locally? Are you helping the market to get to know You?
5 Tools & Resources: Is your LinkedIn profile complete? Are you actively using LinkedIn to research people, companies, and jobs? Are you active in groups that are closely aligned to your interests? Are you sharing content with your connections? Are you utilizing your connections effectively? Other people are your most important resource. Are you reaching out? Are you building a team?
Terrence Seamon is a career transition consultant. He coaches executives and professionals who are making career transitions.
