The Fixer: Your Jobs Search Guide (Part 3)

In parts 1 and 2 of this blog, I've helped you get a handle on what careers you want to do or can do and how to present yourself in a resume/cover letter.

Now it's time to get yourself noticed. You may be getting advice that doing a video resume is the way to go. It was. 2 years ago! The problem is, everyone is now coming up with that bright idea. It's time to think outside the box. You may think it's an overused phrase, but it is the most accurate.

In case you don't know how I got the job here on the Whale let me tell you. I went on CNN's 30 Second Pitch segment and pitched my skills. I was nervous as hell, but it scored me this job! For another job, as a nanny for an actor's child, I sent the actor a sympathy card after his character was killed off a soap opera. It worked.

See what I mean? It's all about research. What is it about the company you apply to that you can do something unique to speak to? How can you show your passion for the work?

Reading a company's mission statement gives big clues. Also, read news releases. A video is ok to use, as long as it fits with the company attitude. But make it creative. Don't just sit there. Spoof a TV show or be original. Personally, an old fashioned resume package works if you "zing" it up. Don't get cheesy.

Another way I got a job, my first big one in radio, was persistence. I faxed, wrote and called for a year. Then, finally, I faxed that I would "be the best and most hardworking employee you'll ever have. Try me out gratis and I'll prove it."  They did and I was. Proving yourself by doing something for free is not a bad thing.

One thing you need to know when trying to stand out is: dedication and going above and beyond is something many other people won't do. Sometimes we have to do freebies in careers to get ahead. you may disagree, but there are thousands of people who want the same job. You have to deliver some value no one else will.

A final note. use spell check! the second a potential employer sees a misspelling, your package goes in the trash.

Feel free to search the web for ideas on all of this, but add your personal touch. Email me for ideas if you like! And read parts 1 and 2 of this blog on my page here and here.

Good luck!