Having a Resume is not Enough for Job Seekers

Having a Resume is not Enough for Job Seekers Many professionals come to me in tears, thousands of dollars in debt, sending out resumes only to hear radio silence from employers. I am here to help clarify some aspects of why job seekers need to stop relying on their resume. The resume can’t accurately capture the total sum of a job seeker’s personality. This think piece applies to those that have graduated as well as the most senior level professionals.“Why Is This Happening to Me?”Do try to understand nothing is personal when it comes to searching for a job.Job search results are what a job seeker puts forth in an effort to attain new or improved employment. The job market is about industry supply and demand and your own personal marketability. Having a media marketing resume without any relevant experience in media marketing is of little value.Job seekers that don’t take the time to market themselves for the industry they have experience in are at a huge disadvantage. Put yourself in the shoes of your future employer when searching and applying for jobs.While unemployed looking for work, don’t be afraid to apply for paid internships or part-time work that will provide hands-on expertise and keep you fresh. Target the job search in concentrated locations where companies are easily accessible and walk-in applications are welcomed. Networking events are a valuable source for professionals at any level in their career. Don’t be shy. Let others know you are on the market with business cards, online websites, and video clips that showcase your skills.Remove Any Negative and Emotionally Draining FactorsI have seen first-hand the struggle of job-seeking without a strong support team. Whether family or friends, it is crucial to have positive support from those around you. Job seeking has been known to cause depression, anxiety, stress and many other negative emotions. The last thing you want to do is be around people who do not understand or support you.As the Bible proverb states, “Iron sharpens iron”. So if you are seeking employment, it’s important to stay motivated and surround yourself with like-minded individuals. Having someone negative in your circle will not only distract you from keeping focus but can negatively impact any opportunities coming your way.Recently, I had an associate that always wanted someone to vent her problems to. While I was listening, I began to reflect on my own unfulfilled goals. Suddenly, I realized that her negative vibes were causing me to think negatively about myself. This actually began to impact my sleep and how I felt in the morning.I quickly made the necessary adjustments to cut out the negativity. And by adjustments I mean changed my phone number and blocked her from all of my social media accounts so she can never reach me again. This was my take on handling the situation and this approach can be tailored to fit any situation.Find positive influences that can sharpen your iron. Identify those that are negative in your circle eit her by their actions or lack of support. Eliminate the negativity in whatever way you see fit. Just get rid of it! Keep your eyes on the prize and do whatever you can to stay motivated.Keep This in MindIt’s important to be realistic about your job search expectations. It isn’t always fun and games. Be willing and able to make any adjustments that need to be made throughout your search. Having a professional resume is just a stepping stone. Your resume itself is not likely to land you all the interviews you are hoping for. Be the complete package and attract your future employer with more than just your resume.