The Sweet Spot

by Marcie Areias
Career Advisor

I refer to this time of year as the "sweet spot." Rarely do you have time to catch your breath and organize your job search. Rather, you are forced to jump head first into informational interviewing and applying for jobs. Because of this, strategic planning takes a backseat. This time of year, however, the job market is quiet, and it is critical that you use this time to organize your job search strategy. Try the following:

1. Online Job Search. Compile a list of all the online databases that post live job openings that interest you. A good place to start compiling this list is on LCSonline's Web Resource handout (available in the Resource Library). While there is no magic number for the amount of online job boards you should check daily, try 10 to 15. The goal is to ensure that no job posting is missed.
2. The "Who You Know and Want to Know" List. Being strategic is critical to conveying confidence. Use this time to compile a few spreadsheet lists consisting of people you know and people you would like to know. Track contact information, reasons for contact (alumni, does interesting work, etc.), dates and notes of each outreach. To get started, try www.martindale.com and Alumni Connect (www.ggu.edu/alumni).

Remember that using this sweet spot for organizing will lead to a more comprehensive job search and allow you to speak with confidence about your diligent job search efforts. Get ahead of the game now by planning for 2011.