New Job? How long will I look for a great new job?

How long will I look for a new job? This is a popular question and like so many resume and job search questions, the answer is the favorite resume writer response — “It depends.”

How long will I look for my new job?

Every job seeker is different and every job search is different. The length of your new job search depends on many variables as well as how active you are in your job search.

If you are looking for a new job that is an entry level position (Sales Associate, Claims Specialist), it will be much easier to find than a new job as a top position (Human Resource Director, Vice President of Business Development, Plant Manager, Global Marketing Director) in a very specific field or industry. To help you think about the variables in job search, ask yourself the following questions:

• Am I looking for a new job that is an entry level role?
• Am I looking for a new job that is the next step (promotion to Sales Lead, Foreman, Assistant Manager) in my career?
• How many openings do I find for these types of jobs when I search job boards?
• Do I have the needed credentials for the new jobs I am targeting?
• Am I looking for a new job that fits my background?

How are you managing your job search?

The point-and-click job search strategy has almost taken over the concept of job search. If you only use the Point-and-click strategy, your job search will be longer and you will be frustrated.

What is the Point-and-click job search strategy?

Every since job boards launched (Monster, Indeed, SimplyHired, and even LinkedIn’s job database), job seekers began to think that this is the only way to look for a job. They point and click and hope someone will call them back. Disappointed with no response, they get disillusioned and depressed. Pressure from their families and pressure internally builds as they start to think they have no value. But they do have value, it is just not being seen.

How do you fix that valueless feeling in your job search?

• Start with making sure your resume is filled with value. Showcase how you will make a difference.
• Use the value-driven resume by getting it to people in your network who can help you. Don’t be quiet at this stage.
• Brainstorm your connections and make sure you are connecting with new people in your industry.
• Don’t be invisible. Get out there and mingle! Holiday and Christmas parties are a great way to let people know you are hunting. Offer to help at soup kitchens, Toy giveaways, or church concerts.

How long will it take you to find a new job?

It depends on how much time and energy you put into your job search and how targeted your job search is for the roles you are seeking.

Julie Walraven is a triple-certified resume writer whose interactive coaching style helps job seekers earn winning positions when she creates tactical resumes and LinkedIn profiles to market you for success. Learn more here.

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