The current business world is populated with two kinds of executives and managers: the out of work and those who are concerned that they soon will be. Whether a job search is in your present or prospective future, here are five tips to help you make it a successful one.

1.    Check Out Your Online Profile

Google yourself regularly. 70% of executive recruiters say that finding positive information online improves a candidate’s job prospects. Articles on the web that report on you and your successes can therefore elevate you to the top of the consideration list.

2.    Use Keywords in Your Resume and Post It Online

Research job descriptions that match your skills and interests and load those keywords into your resume. Make sure the resume is posted online where search engines can find it.

3.    Use Social Networks to Your Advantage

Join social/business networks and include the keywords in your profile. Post a profile on both large, open networks and more specialized, closed networks. These documents will represent your brand and help build your Internet presence so others can find you.

4.    Go to Network Events to Gather Info, Not Find a Job

Going to networking meetings, conferences, association lunches and other events where industry colleagues gather is important. But if you go expecting to meet someone who will find you a job, you’re probably going to be tense and end up disappointed. The goal of these events is more to gather market information.

5.    Use Job Boards for More than Resume Posting

Visit job boards — but not for the sole purpose of attaching and sending resumes. Very few of search firms find candidates via online job postings and advertising. Instead, build your target list by researching companies that are hiring, growing, winning new contracts, developing new products and facing problems that your skills can solve.

Conclusion

My final word of advice: Consider reinventing yourself. The economy has been a motivator for reassessing financial allocations and spending habits, and many are finding that they can live comfortably for less money. You might find that trading some income for the career you've always wanted is well worth it.

Wishing you career success,
Lauryn Franzoni
ExecuNet, www.execunet.com

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