If you’ve ever been in a traffic jam, you probably have witnessed a car or two driving on the road's shoulder to get ahead of traffic or even been tempted to get ahead too. Although these drivers typically are not caught in the act, they have a high chance of causing an accident or being in one. Similarly, job seekers who take a “short cut” could face repercussions. It may be better to sort things out slowly and according to the guidelines than to potentially delay or not arrive at your destination of an internship or job.
The dangers of quickly applying for jobs without preparation can be severe, but there are many ways to stay on track and cruising along in your job search. First, you should make sure that your resume and cover letter are up to date. It might be prudent to back up all your job search documents, including resumes, cover letters and other documents on a flashdrive or zipdrive. If you experience technical difficulties before this happens, you can use the tech support here at the Mount or at Best Buy to fix any unexpected problems.
You may want to update your LinkedIn page to assure that your image or personal brand matches up with your interviewer. By building your image online, not only are you showing consistency in your image, but also demonstrating that you’re a professional.
Another way to make sure you are physically prepared is with an iron, ironing board and strong stain-stick product. Sometimes days will throw fruit punch and wrinkled shirts at you among your hectic and busy lifestyle. It is vital to have access to these materials or seek out a friend, parent or dry cleaner to rid you of these minor worries. Another aspect of being physically prepared sometimes involves a location. While you’ll most likely meet at a professional’s office, it could be helpful to have some locations in mind if an employer asks you to recommend a meeting spot.
As you begin to assess your gifts, values and career goals, it is vital to have an attitude that eliminates “should” and focuses on “will.” In other words, you might want to plan out and write out a list of things to accomplish in your week and do those things. It is easy to forget or to let predetermined ideas concerning your career path undermine your journey. Push through the temptation to say “should” and start to realize that there is power behind your words and your thoughts of positivity.
While it may seem like you are behind, achieving these tasks one at a time will eliminate the stress of looking at all the things you still have to do. In many cases, these tasks are minute and might only take you 15 to 20 minutes to complete. If you’re experiencing a loop where you are having a hard time taking steps in your career path because you don’t know what the end result will be or what career you want, take one thing at a time and breathe.
The road may seem busy and long but be sure to steadily inch forward and keep your foot close to the gas. You never know when you might see a clearer road and get the chance to speed ahead with all your passion and energy.
If you are unsure about what you would like to pursue in the job world, visit us at the Career Center! The Career Center is happy to help you create a resume, review a cover letter, or help you prepare for an interview.Please feel free to make an appointment by emailing us at career-center@msmary.edu or visiting our website to learn more about what we can do for you. Feel stop in at any time and pick up a pamphlet or speak with a professional to help you in accomplishing your goals. We hope to see you soon!