Myths and realities, how does a job seeker tell them apart? Unfortunately for the unsuspecting job seeker, if he or she treats the myth as if it were a reality, they will waste precious time, money and energy heading in the wrong direction. Lets examine a few of the current myths concerning the mysterious world of looking for work.
Myth 1 – We are now entering a revolutionary period where we are witnessing the end of jobs. Reality is that jobs are here to stay. It is careers that are in jeopardy of disappearing. Many young people just entering the job market can expect to have many jobs before they reach retirement age that may or may not constitute what most of us would call a career.
Myth 2 – Anyone can find a job; all you need to know is how to find a job. Reality would say that there are a few flaws to this generality. We can show you some excellent techniques for uncovering job leads, putting together powerful resumes and cover letters and how to ace an interview. What we cannot do is make that job appear if it doesn’t exist. Just because you know how to look for something, doesn’t mean it is there to be found. Sometimes you will have to take your newfound work search skills and move to where the jobs are.
Myth 3 – Resumes are a thing of the past, the new way to find work is the Informational Interview. Reality flies right in the face of this idea. Open up any employment section of the classifieds and almost every ad will ask you to send a resume. The Internet is ripe with sites that specialize in posting your resume. Apparently the employers haven’t heard how passé resumes have become. Sure informational interviews can be very valuable in opening up opportunities but they are only one tool in your job seeker’s toolbox. Do your informational interviews but make sure your resume is tuned up and ready to go because they will ask for it.
Myth 4 – People over 40 have difficulty finding a good job; employers prefer hiring younger and less expensive workers. Reality would agree with you if what you are doing is applying for youth jobs. Conducting an organized job search where you are prepared to sell the employer on all the assets age can bring like maturity, experience and stability will eliminate it as a barrier.
How can you tell if something is a myth or a reality? Is it true for everyone? If even one person proves it can be done or it didn’t affect them, then it is a myth. One sure way to tell if something is a myth is to consider the source. I will guarantee it was told to you by someone who has failed and wants it not to be their fault. Just thank them for their input and go get the job.
Larry Arrance has facilitated workshops for over 4,000 job seekers and career changers. He has personally guided hundreds through the development of powerful marketing tools in their quest to gain employment. During his 12 years as an employment coach and facilitator he has helped clients that ranged from those who were just entering the market, the long-termed unemployed, professionals making major career changes, and victims of restructuring. He is one of the three amigos, specializing in career and job search advice. threeamigosonline.com www.threeamigosonline.com
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