7 Reasons You're Not Getting a Job

It 's good peace and justice in enforcement by Barrack OBAMA,US President, MEANWHILE.

CHEERS.

BENjamin LAM Kwok Seng AKA:Bambang Sutiono Portland University Alumni, SOBA, Class of 1997. of OR 3:52AM September 10, 2009

I disagree that networking is only for people who are in the 7-figure salary range. I've seen time and time again where people get hired because they know the hiring manager or someone that is on the interview panel. And these were people making less than $100k annually.

I have a friend who recently went for an interview with a very well known company. He sent an email to a gentleman that he's known for years to say hello and to let him know that he was in the job market. He had an interview within a week.

At the interview for my current position, I asked about the manager's needs, took notes, and went through one by one how I could assist him in filling these gaps and contribute to his organization (short term and future). My list included everything from my technical ability to my large network that could help the department get things done quickly. I was not cocky at all but clear that I could become a viable, value added resource for the manager and his group.

If you're confident, clear about your capabilities & strengths, ask questions & take notes about the hiring manager's needs, and clearly convey how you can make his life easier - that is more than half the battle.

There are many ways to meet influential people...it's not necessarily about numbers but quality of relationships. If you go to professional society meetings, meetup.com "get togethers", chamber of commerce events, etc., don't focus so much on what you want.

I'll never forget one networking event that I attended for a marketing society. I went to learn more about marketing careers and possibly make a connection. There was a lady who was unemployed, and she was passing out her business card to everyone. She wasn't concerned about anyone else. She was only interested in making connections so that she could get a job. I was totally turned off and was not comfortable recommending her to anyone. Even if you try to hide it, people can usually sense your desperation.

Everyone's situation is different, but a group of mentors, advisors & friends can help fortify & support you during your search. I was unemployed for more than 6 months in 2001, but I had a support network that made the job search easier.

Daphne Robinson

www.careercougar.com

Daphne Robinson of CT 4:24PM August 13, 2009

As a hiring manager for a mid-size company, I can tell you that the whole "networking" thing ONLY works for those in the position to make over a million annually. Don't bug everyone you know in order to find a job. It just makes you look desperate. That is NOT going to get you a job.

Don't pester companies unless they have advertised a position. Instead of being "proactive", all it does is annoy hiring managers (like me) who are VERY busy.

If you mail a resume, address it to the attention of "Human Resources" and NOT "Hiring Manager" or any other title you may think sounds cool. Of course, if you have the person's name, use that.

Never address unknown women as "Mrs." because you have no idea if they are married or not. In the work world, women have earned the right to their own title of "Ms.". USE IT unless you're told otherwise.

Dress appropriately for interviews. Cleavage and skin-tight anything are NOT appropriate. Women, invest $3 in some pantyhose. Save your high-heeled flip-flops for the next "Pimp 'n Ho" party. Learn how to shake hands properly.

And, the company really doesn't care about you. What they care about is what you can do for them.

Dee of CA 10:06AM August 13, 2009