Job Search

Because unemployment can be traumatic, depressing and isolating, networking with others can offer much-needed social interactions, support and encouragement. Most of us, however, are hesitant to assertively network due to not wanting to appear pushy or annoying.

In an effort to help those looking for work be more successful in their networking efforts, I would like to discuss some mistakes many of us make.

For job seekers, getting an interview can be the best news, surpassed only by getting an actual job offer itself. There is a lot written about how to prepare for an interview, and it is all great information.

From researching the company to coming to the interview prepared with eight to 10 questions to ask the potential employer, it is all critically important, and all of it should be taken seriously.

Just as important in the interview, however, are the subtle nuances that most employers take into consideration as they make hiring decisions. These nuances relate to a major question most employers consider; do they like you?

STEM is an acronym for the fields of study in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, STEM-related careers are some of the best-paying and have a great potential for future job growth.

I received the following email regarding last week’s column, “Having trouble finding a job”:

“Your points are dead-on and precisely what I have been doing in my job search, I’ve spent $2,000 to ensure I’m out there for people to see and have utilized professionals for content and posting networks (such as LinkedIn) but to no avail. I’m on month 7 in seeking employment and have not had one interview with a company. I’m 52 with experiences most comment as very ‘impressive’ but then add they’re pursuing other candidates. … My only conclusion is with a background check they will readily see I have 3 DUIs and was in a county jail for 120 days.

I received an email responding to last week’s column about employment assistance available for those with disabilities from a man who has a disability and has not been successful in finding employment. From his perspective, all the services that are available seemingly were not enough to help him overcome the employment hurdles that people with disabilities face.

Here is an excerpt from an email I received a few days ago: