Job Hunting

Richard Nelson Bolles
A job-hunting pro shares the secrets to scoring your next gig.

“You may be tempted to hide problems you had with a former boss or co-worker. Don’t let the employer eventually hear it from others. Toward the end of the interview is your chance to interpret the incident for them.”

“If you don’t know what unique things you have to offer the marketplace, ask people who know you well to list your strengths and experiences. Websites like checkster.com let you choose people to critique you anonymously. Do this when seeking a promotion, too.”

“Don’t underestimate the value of sleep. The average job hunt may last between 16 and 19 weeks. Sleeplessness puts a drain on your energy and your enthusiasm, and affects the way you present yourself.”

“When the interview is almost over, ask one final question: “Given what we’ve discussed, can you offer me this job?” You’re giving the employer the opportunity to make a decision. The worst they can do is say “no” or “we need more time.” You may be surprised, however, when they say “yes.”

Bio:
Richard Nelson Bolles is the author of the annually revised What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers, the best-selling career book of all-time with more than 10 million copies in print.

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The New York Times reported late last year on the rapidly evolving state of the job-hunting market. (Excerpt: “When I think back to my job-hunting days, my methods seem as quaint as comparing a Victrola to an iPod.”)

Mashable, a popular tech blog, recommends more than 70 websites to help make your job search easier.

SmartMoney recommends four little-known resources for giving yourself a leg up on the competition.