5 Quickies To Help Give Your Job Search a Boost
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1. We vs. I: In our society, we (notice I said ‘we’) often use the word ‘we’ to describe our work. It is inclusive and allows you to share credit for your work with others on your team. The problem is, it doesn’t tell anyone what your role was on the team! Try balancing your use of ‘we’ and ‘I’ so people know what you did on a project versus what the goals and actions of the entire group were!



2. “I believe… I think… I feel…” Vs. “I am… I have… I know…” : Using passive words like ‘I feel’ make you sound, well, passive. Use concrete words in your communications that show confidence in your own abilities and create an understanding of what you will do in a position with a company. Saying “I am the right match for this position because I possess experience in the areas of A, B, and C.” is better than “I feel I am a good match for your needs.” The former is a stronger statement that makes direct ties to employer’s needs.



3. Choose an Identity: If you‘ve had your resume written by me, you know that there is a clear identifying title at the top of your resume. This clearly communicates your personal brand and your area of expertise. It is slightly different for everyone, even those in the same industry and field. What is your Identity?



4. To Whom it May Concern: Unfortunately, this opening on your cover letter will position you as an outdated, old school job seeker. You want to be seen as a professional that is in touch with today’s standards. Try using LinkedIn to identify the hiring manager for the position to which you are applying. Look at the ad itself to see if there is any indication of who will be looking at the applications. When those fail, try something like “Dear Hiring Manager:” or my go-to phrase “Allow me to introduce myself:”



5. Tell Me about Yourself: This is perhaps the most dreaded interview question on record (it ranks right up there with ‘what are your weaknesses?’). For those of you that have met with me, you know how to answer this question. You start with your identity, then move in to a short description of the experiences you have had that tie to the employer’s needs. You can wrap it up with your education, and then ask a question about the job that moves the conversation forward.



I may be biased, but I find interview preparation and resume writing fun and exciting! Whether you feel like that or not, I can help you get to a point that you are confident in your entire job search.