When you Wish upon a Job

It makes a difference what you do.

Did you see the Leonid Meteor Shower earlier this week? First you had to know about it. Second, you either had to stay up past midnight (PST) or get up before dawn. Then, you had to find a clear view of the sky, without a lot of light pollution, and let your eyes adjust to the darkness. And it was best if you knew to look to the Northeast part of the sky.

"A goal without a plan is just a wish." - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

It turns out you had to plan to successfully make a wish upon a falling star. So you need a plan for a successful job search.

Below are the fundamental phases of your job search plan. But first, get yourself a positive attitude about your plan and future!

1. Define your Value: What have you accomplished? What value to you bring? What challenges have you faced?
2. Define and Research your Goal: What is it that you really want to do, and how does one do it? You have to know what job(s) you're specifically after. Better if you know which potential employers also.
3. Explain your Value and your Goal: Create your resume, networking business cards, elevator pitch, social media profiles, get recommendations, etc.
4. Market yourself: Actively network and build your network, engage recruiters, apply for jobs with a cover letter, and attract online attention. Help others and pay it forward.
5. Interview: Prepare by understanding the company, division and job opportunity. Learn how to Interview. Effectively present your value to employers, and follow through.

Of course, through all of this: stay on plan, stay organized, stay positive, and stay informed.

I’d write “Good Luck” but now you know having a plan and working it is what will make that wish come true.