Keys to finding a job in '09

Lynne Sarikas, director of the MBA career center at Northeastern University’s College of Business Administration, shares her thoughts on finding a job in the coming year (you can find her bio here: http://cba.neu.edu/cba/directory_detail.cfm?e=218)

Finding a Job in 2009:

Be as flexible as possible - consider different industries, geographies or different ways to use your skill set

Industries or companies doing major layoffs are not going to be doing significant hiring. Only pursue opportunities in these industries or companies if you have a unique, marketable skill set that can add value in turbulent times.

Other industries are actively seeking experienced talent. Many face the challenge of significant retirements and they are focused on building the management team of the future. Finding the right people is imperative for them.

Especially in this economy, not all positions are posted. Use your search time more strategically by networking as much as possible instead of sitting behind the computer searching job boards.

You need a plan - if you don't know where you are going any road will do -- identify the type of position you are seeking and your target companies, research those companies, identify where you can add value, identify networking contacts and begin networking

Networking is the most successful job search strategy and often the most under-utilized. Start with the people you know and ask each contact to identify other contacts. Leverage former colleagues. Leverage your alumni database and career center. Utilize LinkedIn and join relevant Linked In groups.

Focus more on what you can do for the company than on your past accomplishments. Your accomplishments are not your selling points but are your proof statements. Have you managed an acquisition or merger? Served on the due diligence team? Managed a downsizing effort? If so leverage that experience. Have you managed a significant change initiative? Did you lead a major cost reduction or process improvement initiative? Focus on the most critical needs of the company at this time and emphasize how you can add value.

Flawless execution - in a tight economy there is no room for error. Competition is fierce. Your resume and cover letter must be flawless - no typos, no form letter, etc. You must be well prepared for all interviews and networking meetings - know the company, their business and current events and have specific questions prepared. Never overlook the value of timely, personalized follow-up.

How to Stand Out from the Crowd

Instead of applying at the online job board, network within the company and have a contact deliver your resume to the hiring manager. This puts you in the pile of a handful of resumes instead of in the pile of hundreds. It significantly increases the odds of someone actually looking at your resume.

A handwritten thank you after the interview makes a significant impression and is an additional opportunity to demonstrate your strong interest

Have your references ready and well-briefed

Have specific, thoughtful questions prepared for your interviewers. Do your research and be well-prepared to demonstrate your knowledge of the company and industry, it also demonstrates your interest and your approach to preparation

Length of Search

Length of the job search can vary significantly depending on type of position you are seeking and the industry you are targeting. There will be increased competition as more laid-off workers join the search. General rule of thumb - it will always take longer than you expect it will. Plan on 6 - 9 months in general and longer if you have a highly specialized need.

Where to Target
In challenging times it is tough to identify a industry where all players are doing well, look for the successful and growing players in your target industry or those who have a specific need for your skill set

Also, companies are hiring but often for specific skill sets rather than across the board, use your network to learn who is hiring for the types of positions you are seeking

This is definitely a time when it is to you advantage to be flexible and to think outside the box