7 Reasons You're Not Getting a Job

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While I agree with Whitney, I have to admit, Dee is far more representative of what job seekers find in the real world, Whitneys is more idealistic...... and yes, people entering a place of business should learn how to shake hands.... and if you ever find a job at an employer who does care about you and not what you can add to the bottom line........ GRAB onto them and hold on forever !

Vancouver Island, BC 1:40AM December 05, 2009

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

Wow Dee of CA, I'd hate to work for you.

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

I'm assuming you are probably frustrated with the number of people you have to interview on account of the fact that no one probably stays with your company for very long if that is the attitude you have.

Also, if you don't care very much about the person and more about what the person can do for you, you sure do judge them on a very personal, shallow level.

Perhaps you should stop thinking that just because you are at a higher level than others and are "very busy" that all of those below you owes you the world. Start judging people by their work, work ethic and decency and maybe you won't have to be hiring so often.

Whitney of CA 7:22PM August 29, 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

These days, most jobs are applied online only. A friend and myself have applied for several jobs online for months and yet not one call for an interview. I sit here wondering if I even applied correctly or if my application even went through. Then again, I blame it on the economy. No jobs in my city is what I'm thinking. I would feel better, as well as my friend, if applications were considered in person instead of online. At least this way, we would know it was submitted and we can call to see why we haven't been called for an interview or a letter stating the position has been posted. This online applying.....NOT WORKING. And the Texas Workforce Commission sucks. They do not help you one bit.

R Salinas of TX 1:58PM 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

This was a great article. I have been on numerous interviews and could have excelled at each position. I don't think I interview very well and believe that is the reason. I have even looked at positions below my skill level, but what do you answer to te question where do you see yourself in 5 years when interviewing for a job as a receptionist? Like you are going to say I see myself right here, answering your phones. I did manage to ask about growing within the company and was informed that the positions were filled, had been for some time and there was no evidence of anything opening up in the near(5year) future. I think that is why I did not get that job. I do try to stay upbeat and my Manta is there is a job out there for me, it just has not presented itself yet. All of the interviews are just to keep me in practice.

Felicia Hackett of GA 9:31AM August 13, 2009

Karen, I just wanted to say "thank you" for the many blog posts you write that are so very useful -- both here and your regular Working Girl blog.

You do a great job! Please keep it up!!

Bill G of WI 12:43AM August 13, 2009

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