Job Change
"My last job change was under difficult circumstances," Janet said. "I wasn't very prepared. What should I do to get ready?"
“Think of your
job change like a marketing campaign, with you as the product,” I
advised. “To successfully sell your product (you), you must be able
to communicate the compelling features and benefits of the product
to a potential employer.”
The Risk Challenge
“Whenever an
employer is making a hiring decision, they are taking a big risk,” I
explained. “As a candidate, it is your challenge to lower that risk
for a potential employer.”
“How do you do that? Janet asked.
“Primarily, by demonstrating
credibility,” I replied.
“Credibility in a job change can come from a
number of factors:”
Being “Known”
Being known to someone does not mean you will
automatically get the job, but it does help to get the interview.
“Known” can mean a loose connection such as a networking
acquaintance, or it can be someone who is very familiar with your
skills and experience.
Credentials
Credentials are generally bestowed by
organizations, such as an accreditation, designation, degree, or
certification.
Expertise
Expertise is your demonstrated experience in a
particular field or with a particular skill.
Membership in a Professional Organization
Membership in an organization shows that you are
serious about your profession, and conveys some credibility, even
when it is just a dues-paying membership.
Reference in the Field
Having someone in the field on your reference list
lends credibility to your application.
Ability to Communicate in the Language of
the Field
Using the jargon, or keywords, of the field shows
that you have relevant knowledge and experience.
Your Job Change Marketing Package
“A good marketing campaign focuses on
communicating how the product can meet the needs or solve the
problems of the customer,” I explained. “You can use the same
principles when preparing your own marketing package, by identifying
the needs and/or problems of a potential employer and then outlining
how you can meet those needs and/or solve a problem for them.”
“What else do I need besides a resume and a cover
letter?” Janet asked.
“To be well-prepared, you
need all of these...”
3-System for Tracking Contacts
4-Elevator Pitch
5-Networking Profile
6-Contact Cards
7-References
8-Career Resumes that Effectively Market You
9-Cover Letters
"As you can see, your job change marketing package requires more than just a resume and cover letter."
