Job Tuition

First Step in Job Hunting: Show Up!

January 1st, 2007 by Andrew

How many times have you seen a job opportunity that sounds like a good fit for you, but you did not contact the employer? Do you ever see a “Now Hiring” sign at one of your favorite stores but do not even inquire about the position? 90% of getting that dream job is simply showing up! You may have heard a similar saying regarding competitions (90% of winning is showing up); this motto holds especially true for job hunting. Here’s what showing up does for you:

Makes Yourself Visible

You may think about finding a new job 24/7, but no one else may know about your goals. If you never show up to fill out an application or drop off a resume, how will potential employers ever know? If you actively inquire and apply for jobs, you immediately become visible to employers. Putting your name in the hat for different jobs alerts employers that you are available and looking. Without such efforts, your inner-most job desires will remain hidden.

Boosts Self-Esteem

Another great benefit of applying to more jobs, dropping off more resumes, etc, is that you will have increased self-esteem regarding your job prospects. If you broaden your search net in this manner, you will encounter more employers, and some of them will be more interested in you than others. Enjoy and relish these more positive employer encounters; they prove that you are marketable and that employers want your skills.

Gives You Experience

Any contact with a potential employer gives you experience that will help land the job of your dreams. Even just going in to drop off a resume includes a small exchange between you and a current employee. You can learn how to make a little small talk, how to be polite, and how to present yourself in a professional manner.

More importantly, if you happen to get an interview (even over the phone), you gain incredibly valuable experience. You get the chance to learn more about employers in general, the industry in which you are searching, and yourself. The more interviews you have, the more comfortable you will be, and the better chance you have of getting the job you really want.

Increases Your Chances

On the note of increasing your chances, statistics would say that more applications, more resumes, and more interviews lead to more job offers. Isn’t that the goal? Don’t you want the job offer of your dreams? Show up more often!