Halloween can be a time for candy, costumes, and fun. But it’s also an opportunity to celebrate all things frightening. Throughout the rest of the year, however, something that can be counted on to give people goosebumps is the thought of a job search. Looking for work doesn’t have to be scary, though. Here are seven strategies you can rely on to help conquer that fear.
Have a game plan
Just as kids will map out the neighborhood for the best candy haul, you need to plan how you will navigate your search. Make an action plan in which you identify target companies, what their needs are, and how you’re going to network to get yourself noticed. You can download our Job Search Log template here to help get you started.
Build a personalized branding statement
Don’t trick potential employers by telling them only what you think they want to hear. Give them the treat of finding out about your authentic self. Develop a personalized branding statement that is short but sweet and true to you. Taking strengths tests and brainstorming accomplishments and attributes can help you craft the best sales pitch about yourself.
Be resume ready
When someone answers the door on Halloween night kids have to be ready with their baskets. Similarly, you need to have your resume in top shape at the start of your search. You’ll want a current, relevant resume that you can tailor quickly to particular jobs that come up. Check out these workshops from our resume writing partners Kate Wade and Lisa Carman: 5 Ways to Use AI for your Resume, Cover Letter, Bio, and LinkedIn Profile and Light Up Your Linkedin.
Do a dry run
If you’re ever on the streets on Halloween you might hear parents priming their kids to be polite. “What do you say?” “Trick or Treat!” “And then?” “Thank you!” If five-year-olds can do a dry run for getting Butterfingers, you can practice for a job interview. Do some research to find out more about the company. If you know anyone who has interviewed there before, ask what questions they encountered. Find out more about the person you are scheduled to meet (LinkedIn is a great place to start). Have a friend or family member ask you questions in a mock interview to get you ready.
Make it a conversation
Don’t be scared of your interviewer. They want to get to know you. Interviewers will have a more favorable impression of candidates who have a conversation with them rather than simply answering the question and then waiting for the next one to come at them. Need some inspiration? Check out this discussion with Sarah Blake and Monica Faberman.
Don’t ghost potential employers
When you’ve had the privilege of an interview, take the time afterwards to write a thank you note. Be specific. Address something you learned about the company in the interview. Add something about yourself that you want to reiterate or emphasize from your conversation. Personalizing your follow-up is one more way for you to stand out from the rest.
Work with a pro
Going it alone in a job search is the scariest part of the process. But you don’t need to do it solo. A coach can ask the right questions to help you identify career objectives, help make your resume pop, encourage your networking, find job postings, provide interview tips, and offer encouragement throughout.
Landing the best job is the treat at the end of a tricky process. Don’t go it alone. Schedule some time to chat!
