22 Jul 09 The Value of a Targeted Job Search

Dan,
I think you raise some good questions and points. I believe a job seeker is going to have much more success doing a targeted job search. Having 15 years accounting recruitment I am probably a bit biased. I don't think I have ever had an accountant come to me and tell me they are looking for a sales job. However, I am always looking for a focused candidate. I also believe that job search is highly geo-targeted as well. Job seekers need to remain very focused and show recruiters and hiring managers that they know what they want.

the number one factor accounting for double-digit increases in the average length of un-employment is the reliance on job boards.

Targeting is important in a lot of respects in the job search. In times like these, of course, its probably good to be a little more flexible, but by targeting, you'll find what you're looking for, even if it takes a little longer. I'd rather take a little longer to find the right job for me, then find one quickly and then end up having to leave just as quickly because its clearly not going to work out.

You mentioned thinking about targeting as finding a job at one particular company, but I'm not so sure that's the right way to go about it. Sure, if you are passionate about a company, keep your eye on it and find people to network with there. But look to others too. Companies that have values that are similar to yours. Those that are in a field you are passionate about, or at least, that you would enjoy working in. Think about hobbies and the kind of things you like to do in your spare time, and look at companies in that area. Network with those working there, as this will help you to get a better idea of what it is like there. And perhaps, a referral for the available job there that wasn't posted in the public arena.

I am still tackling an effective and efficient job search myself. There has to be something to say about keywords that target you to a specific job in a specific company. I am constantly networking, but how can I target job search using my network. Some people get really specific like I want "this client" and I'm looking for them this week. At the same time, I don't think job seekers should be pigeon-holed either.

By Targeting companies you are making the job-search active (going out and looking for work as opposed to waiting for open-jobs and applying). Targeted searching should be about 80% of your search. Target companies that you want to work for - due to geography, industry, culture, pay, etc. It is your metric so you can decide what is important to you and where you want to work.

In today's job market not only do you need to have a position targeted, but you should know your target company. General resumes and general job searches come off as desperate and show no confidence. Know your position and know your company. Pinpoint targeting is important to show what you can truly do for a company.

The only way to effectively target a company is to research it thoroughly. Online and through networking, get the information you need. This isn't something that can be rushed and takes some serious legwork. You need to focus full-time hours to your job search.

LinkedIn is an effective tool that I've known companies to search through for candidates, so I recommend keeping your page up to date.