Too many people are out of work now, and many are giving up the chance to find a job. Sometimes having a different mindset of how to market yourself can open up your chances of success in your job search. There are several ways to use your resume, and trying one of these methods can make all the difference in finding your next job. If your job search plan is diversified, you will have a better chance of getting an interview because your resume will have been distributed to a wider audience of people.

networks

Networking is one of the best ways to distribute your resume. Networking is having someone you know introduce you to someone you haven’t met before. While there may not be an obvious job opening, networking could prove valuable in introducing you to that position before it goes public. This could give you the leverage you need in today’s job market. It can certainly improve your chances of landing an interview.

You don’t need to know a million people to network. Start with the obvious: friends, immediate and extended family members, members of clubs or associations, service professionals you’ve hired, and even your stylist may know someone who knows a position you fit.

When you talk to these people or contact the contacts they provide you with, make sure they have a copy of your resume. It is natural for people to help each other; however, it is not always natural for us to feel comfortable asking for help. Practice asking, “Would I save my resume in case I hear of someone who needs my skills?” You will most likely get a friendly yes most of the time.

advertisements

When responding to a classified ad, you are expected to submit a resume. Make sure your resume and cover letter are tailored to the specific requirements of the ad. And, read the entire classifieds section. Sometimes a job posting appears with a different title than what you might think of as normal.

Understand the requirements posted in the ad and make sure your resume meets those requirements. Adjust keywords and critical items to ensure your resume sells you for that specific position. After all, you wouldn’t be trying to submit a resume for a quick service cook by answering a caterer and event planner ad! Although there are similar functions in both positions, the level of your qualifications must be adjusted to the position for which you are competing.

employment agencies

Employment agencies are another place to circulate your resume. If you’ve been out of work for a while and need to start finding something to earn an income, try a temp agency. Their positions can sometimes turn into a permanent placement, and you have the opportunity to show your loyalty by working through an agency.

Other employment agencies use a fee structure approach to placement. Check fee arrangements and distribute your resume if their business practices would be beneficial to your job search. Many of these agencies work under a fee structure where the employer pays a search fee for opening the position; and these are often for jobs that require specialized skills or difficult-to-fill positions.

recruiters

Executive recruiters typically work with companies to find qualified candidates for high-level positions and work with the company on a fee or retainer contract. Sending your resume to an executive recruiter may not bring immediate results, but it is an opportunity to get exposure to some of the higher-level positions that might not be advertised in the classified sections.

Make sure you have a top notch resume for the recruiter to use that is specific to your professional position. Recruiters are more likely to match you with a company when they are very clear about your accomplishments and the experience you can bring to the next employer.

Bold and Direct

The direct approach is still a popular way to circulate your resume. Perhaps you have identified a company or industry that you would like to work for. Even though they haven’t posted any job openings, you can leave your resume with a good cover letter. Sometimes this will result in a request to fill out an application, or even an immediate interview! At the very least, they will keep you on their candidate file for a short time, and an opening may come up for which you are qualified.

Think of the different ways to circulate your resume. Don’t wait for an opportunity to knock on your door; You need to post your resume to find the best opportunities! Follow guidelines when preparing your resume that will ensure you end up with a quality, professional document. Once you’ve polished and perfected it, try a few diversified ways to circulate your resume for job-search success.