FRESH TIP FROM THE COACHM REPORT NEWSLETTER

When hunting for a job, you have to remain committed and focused. Studies show that it takes the average person anywhere from six weeks to six months to land a "real" job - we're not talking about an interim position to help pay the bills.

Keep in mind that hiring managers receive, literally, hundreds of résumés a week. Employers are busy people and despite their need to fill a particular position, it is not a simple matter to read a multitude of résumés from people all claiming to be "the one." You can stand out from the crowd and boost your success by doing four key things.

1. Produce an Outstanding Résumé

Represent your career background, qualifications and achievements in a way that outshines your competition. Eight percent of employers look at achievements first. Get your point across in 10 to 30 seconds, because that is how long a hiring manager will spend reviewing your résumé.

2. Write an Effective Cover Letter

An influential cover letter will NOT start with "Dear Sir or Madam." You will have done your research and located an actual name and verified the spelling. Sell the benefits of your credentials, letting the employer know how you will solve their problems, save them money and/or improve productivity. Include the important, but often forgotten, question asking for the interview.

3. Mount a Serious Campaign

Mailing out 20-50 résumés a week is not unreasonable in an aggressive campaign.
 

4. Follow-up

In one week, call EACH and EVERY employer to whom you've sent your résumé and again ask for an interview. Continue to follow-up. Follow-up displays confidence, professionalism and determination to succeed. Employers rarely hear from most of the people who've submitted résumés. The few who call afterwards are granted interviews!

Kim Little
(Reprinted with permission)