Searching in multiple directions can keep you stuck
Q: I am thinking about changing directions with my job search. I have a total of 18 years in five industries and can easily work in a number of fields. My dilemma is no one is calling me back, even though I have posted for jobs the last four months. I know the job market has slowed down, but I thought my broad experience would be a plus. What are your thoughts on having a background in multiple industries?
A: As your career progresses, so will your experience and, in your case, it sounds like you have worked in numerous career fields. The advantage of working in multiple industries is the knowledge you gain from different work cultures as well as new skills. One of the mistakes that people often make is using their exposure to numerous industries to search for jobs. Keeping your job search too broad can also keep you stuck.
It’s not uncommon to hear people say they want to keep their job possibilities open rather than limit themselves. On the surface, being open sounds like a good plan. If there are numerous industries where you can transfer your skills and experience, then narrowing down your opportunities to a few of them seems wrong. However, if you want to find a good job where you can grow, you need to create a focused strategy.
Right now, the job market has slowed in some fields while emerging in others. The constant state of change with new positions and marketplace needs could mean you are spending hours online, searching in multiple industries. If relocation is a possibility, you could easily get overwhelmed by being “too open” to various kinds of jobs with unlimited possibilities.
Becoming focused on your search is not a limiting strategy, rather it makes your efforts more productive — it increases your chances of finding a good opportunity. When interviewing, keep in mind that employers are attracted to candidates who know what they want, who are focused and can clearly articulate their value.
Consider writing down an ideal job description you would like to pursue rather than waiting for one to emerge. This exercise helps you form a direction and
Consider writing down an ideal job description that you would like to pursue rather than waiting for one to emerge. This exercise helps you form a direction and gives you a needed structure to keep you on track.
gives you a needed structure to keep you on track.
Often, the major belief in staying “too open” is based on a hidden measure of self-doubt. Doubting that you really can have what you want in your career.
When you are tempted to keep your eye on everything you could do as a possibility, it limits you.
Staying too open lengthens your job search and can hinder your progress.