In an active job search, you may face a common dilemma: If you sit back and wait for recruiters to find you and reach out, you could be overlooked. On the other hand, if you pursue recruiters and seek to connect (over a specific job or just in general), you could come across as aggressive — or, worse, desperate. So what do you do? Wait or hunt?
Consider this scenario: John is a transitioning sailor with deep expertise in cryptology and complex electronic systems. He also brings many years of measurable leadership experience and achievements. To John, he’s a great catch for a forward-thinking company that cares about innovation and growth. But his phone isn’t ringing.
When asked what the issue could be, John responds that he believes that if he initiates contact with a recruiter, he is “lowering himself” in a sense. John wants his experience and skills to speak for themselves.
While he possesses tremendous and measurable skills, talents and experience, no one knows this but John, and perhaps his former colleagues. To be found by the right people, John needs to promote himself for a great opportunity to come forward.
Here’s what John could do:
1. Get Clear on His Value Proposition
While John has a lot of skills and talents, how does he define the value he offers? If he can start thinking in terms of, “What is the problem I solve?” he can begin to drill down into the companies and leaders who care about having that problem solved by someone like John.
2. Prepare His Materials
From his resume to his elevator pitch to his interview prep, John should focus on how he adds value, any replicable results he’s achieved and what he’s looking for as a next career step. Clarity, consistency and focus are paramount to being found by recruiters for the right opportunities.
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3. Build Up His LinkedIn Profile to Be Keyword Rich in the Areas He Is Pursuing
Instead of using Navy terms, review job openings and job descriptions for the language and terminology used by the industry leaders with whom he seeks to connect. Incorporating industry-specific keywords into his online materials will help recruiters find him.
4. Ensure His Network of Industry Contacts Know Who He Is, What He Can Offer and What He’s Looking for
Sitting by the phone is not a viable strategy. Building and nurturing an industry network is important to his ability to attract opportunities that may not be advertised online. John should be having regular networking “touch-base” meetings to update his contacts on his search and how he can help them. He should become active on LinkedIn by posting thought leadership pieces, sharing relevant content posted by others and participating in groups where like-minded individuals are collaborating. Visibility — online and in person — will help John stay top of mind with decision makers looking for someone with his skills, interests and talents.
5. Make the First Move When Appropriate
Once John finds an opportunity that fits his needs and goals, he should initiate contact with recruiters or hiring managers. A professional, polite and well-written email or direct message shows respect and enthusiasm for the opportunity. Then a polished cover letter and resume that speak to how he can help the company solve problems adds to the impression that John is a serious candidate who’s focused on growing and learning to build his career in meaningful ways.
Competition in job searching today is unmatched. With fewer jobs posted, more candidates competing and a shorter attention span by employers, job hunters must be proactive about being seen and found by the right employers.
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