ARE YOU USING THE BEST APPROACH TO A JOB SEARCH?

Many job seekers are having difficulty to land the job of their choice.  A Job Search is definitely still very difficult, as the competition is strong.  There are many reasons and variables in the job search process that can work against a person.  Here are some of them:

• Though you may be a very experienced and successful professional, it is detrimental if you come across that you think too highly of themselves.  In the south there are still some who believe in a certain protocol.  In this case, employers want to see signs of confidence, but also demonstrate a degree of being "humble".  This tells the employer that you are one who "respects" the employer.  If you come across as one who thinks "too highly of yourself", that can be a major "turn off".
• It is important for a job seeker to display good "follow-up".  A hand-written note is something that employers appreciate as it is a good example of displaying a "personal touch" in business.  An email or typed letter can convey a "cold or impersonal" approach.
• Another point to "follow-up" is the frequency of it.  It is good to follow-up quickly with a "thank you note", but then there should be at least a week for any other contact.  A series of different contact venues are ok, but they should be spaced out 1-2 weeks apart.  If you are calling, leaving voicemails, or emails one after another within a day or two, you will be considered rude and a nuisance.
• When referred to a business contact, be sure to talk to this person respectfully, as you don't want to cause burned bridges between the reference and the person who referred them to you.  Remember that if the person you were referred to can't directly help you, they probably know of others who could. 
• It is wise to research the people you meet (in person or by phone or email).  If they are someone, who has been in their field for a long time, note that means they probably know a lot of people and/or have a lot of experience, which can help you in your search.
• If new to the community, be open and receptive to insight and advice of experienced professionals.  Each part of the country has unique characteristics, habits, expectations, and traditions.  Therefore, a job seeker is wise to listen carefully to those experts, who can guide you through the "land mines".  They can help you avoid putting your foot in your mouth, etc.
• Resumes are another aspect of a job search that varies from one part of the country to another.  A resume developed in California may not be as effective in the northeast, etc.  Most employers want a resume to clearly state the position you are seeking and why you are effective in that role.  Employers are too busy to "guess" at what position you want.

These are just a few tips that can help a job search candidate to manage his/her job search.  Every part of the country has their own quirks, which makes up that area's personality.  Still, being respectful, listening carefully, and avoid tooting your own horn too much are always words of wisdom.