Job search hack: Only do the fun stuff

Everything I’ve said about what you have to do in your job search — I take it all back.

Okay, that’s a bit of an exaggeration.  There are over 150 articles on this site about how you can be successful in your career.  So, this isn’t a total retraction.  It’s more of an asterisk.

Career experts are fond of sharing what you have to do to be successful.  Really, you don’t have to do anything.

Have you heard that networking is the only way to get a job?  It’s the current conventional wisdom.  But the last two times that I was hired, I submitted a resume into the abyss.  I didn’t address them to the hiring manager.  I didn’t network my way in.  One of those was even in response to a newspaper ad.

Why was I successful in what so many people say is an unwinnable game?

I believe it’s because I love to write.

Writing a resume feels natural to me.  Creating a targeted cover letter is almost fun.  Submitting resumes capitalizes on one of my natural talents.  That’s how I got my foot in the door.

It’s the same on the job.  Those projects and tasks that make the most of what you’re naturally good at you’ll excel at.  And you’ll probably also feel more enthusiastic and energetic while you’re at it.

So, when you’re busily doing that piece of the job search that you’ve been told you have to do, pay attention to how you feel while you’re doing it.  If you’re seriously struggling, ask yourself how effective you can truly be, and whether it’s a good use of your time.

What if you hate to write?  Well, you may not be able to get away with not having a resume, but you can get away with not writing it.  Hire a resume writer or get a talented friend to help you.  Moving past a task that drains you emotionally will free up more of your energy and enthusiasm for the aspects of job search that most suit you.

Hate to network?  Consider what it is that you dislike.  If it’s the crowds, consider one-on-one informational interviews.  If you freeze up face-to-face, try participating in LinkedIn groups, discussion forums, Twitter or other online networking.  Understand the value of the activity, and adapt it in a way that feels comfortable for you.

A multi-pronged job search attack will be the most effective.  But it doesn’t mean you have to do the work the way they say you do, or that you have to do it all yourself.  Learn the best practices, then enlist help, be creative, and find your own solutions.

photo credit: SC Fiasco

Related posts:

1. Your personal “best”: Authenticity and your job search
2. Job search over 50: Unique challenges, unique opportunities
3. Networking Ninja Tip: Know What You Need
4. Just suck it up and network already: 5 bogus excuses to let go of
5. Not everything is a job search nail: Effective use of your resume