Yes, this will be the last post on this blog. I have been at my new job for the past month, now, and I really do enjoy it. So the correct answer was not 180 days, but really, 268 days to find a new job.
So, what did I learn and what advice can I give to someone looking for a job. I do not think this is all inclusive list, but more of guidelines to follow:
1. Build a network. Being referred by someone to the hiring manager or human resources increases your chances of an interview, but not getting a job. I had two opportunities where one of my friends either worked at the company or knew the person hiring. I got interviewed by both companies, but did not receive a job in either case. Both of these interviews ended in curious manners. One company claimed that they had changed their mind and were not hiring the position after all, and the other waited six months before letting me know that the position had been filled.
2. Broaden your job search. When I first started my job search I had a very narrow focus. I was looking for a position in IT operations and maintenance. I ended up with a new job in Software development and programming. So, what is the lesson here? The skills I have that allowed me to track multiple projects, trouble calls, hardware upgrades, and network systems were transferrable to software development projects. The fact that I have not written a line of code since my college computer science programming days of Karel the robot and Basic programming language did not disqaulify me frommy new position. The ability to manage people, understand technical software requirements, and work with clients is ultimately what got me this position. Don't limit your search based on your current position.
3. Online job searches are out of date. With the exception of government or public sector jobs, most of the vacancies displayed on job boards and websites such as LinkedIn, The Ladders, etc, tend to be 1-2 weeks behind, and in a significant number of cases, the position had already been filled. It was more effective for me to see a list of companies that were hiring and then visit their company website on a regular basis to see what jobs were available. The only reason public sector jobs were up to date was because most are required to advertise for 30 days or more for each position.
4. Create an internet presence. I know of one position that I was a finalist for, but ultimately lost out on, because the person they selected had a credible internet presence. His website was for his individual consulting company and praised his management style and IT skills and detailed his successful company of four years. In reality, he had created a website, helped his friend, listed them as clients, and became a "consultant" overnight. His client list was two people. Yet, when the interview committee looked at his resume and website, that was a deciding factor about which one of us was offered the position.
5. Stay current. This applies to both technology and non-technology items. In my case, technology was a job requirement, but you should stay up to date with non technologies such as software for business use, e-mail and data storage technology, to using social media to reach customers. All of these are skills that you can offer your employer and show how you can contribute to their mission and bottom line
That is all. Thanks to my followers. All seven of you, for your help, your encouragement, and your support during my job search. A simple thank you does not seem like enough, but it is heartfelt and I will remember all of you.
Thank you
