Job Hunting? Take Some Advice from IABC Members Who Have Been There

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An excerpt of the following article appeared in the February 2011 issue of Communicator.

I often meet people through IABC who are looking for a job. Whether the job hunter is a new grad, someone with junior-level experience or a seasoned communicator in transition, one of the first things I advise them is to join IABC or get more involved. That’s what we’re here for – to provide access to tools, information and a network to enhance your communications career. But then what?

I contacted people in my IABC network who have recently been on the job hunt or hired someone new. I asked them “if you could provide a job hunter in communications with one piece of advice, what would it be?”

Here is a summary of their responses.

Be shameless – tell everyone you know that you’re looking for a job – leads can come from the most unexpected sources. Don’t be shy about reaching out to everyone in your network (and if you are shy, get over it as best you can). Sell yourself! Talk to people and tell them your situation, what you’re looking for and your areas of expertise.

Network – everyone you know is aware that you’re job hunting. Now expand that group. Attend networking events and follow up with people you meet. While a two-minute chat may not make a lasting impression with someone, a coffee meeting at a later date could. Connect with them on LinkedIn or send them an article about a shared interest that you discussed. 

Get away from your desk – in-person networking helps the job search, but it also gives you a break from the computer screen. Too much time and emphasis online can be soul-sapping. Talking to other job seekers can boost your confidence and remind you that there are other talented people in the same boat.

Promote all of your relevant skills – one of my IABC colleagues said that new entrants to the communications field often leave out relevant skills when applying for jobs, such as project-management experience. He says “Give yourself more credit, and take a more careful inventory of your skills and experiences when writing your resume.”

Get over yourself – one IABC contact told me that employers sometimes hire recent grads versus more qualified individuals because newbies are willing to learn and grow in a new work environment. Employers don’t need to invest in significant training for senior applicants, but they may not be able to adapt to a new culture or learn a new way of doing things. When applying for jobs, emphasize that you eager to learn and move forward.

Find your passion – volunteer for a company or cause that you believe in. You will make valuable connections and showcase your talents and your sincere interest will only enrich the experience.

Get the inside scoop – If you discover a line of work you haven’t considered before, talk to people who have been there and done that – ask for informational interviews. Find out whether that sexy occupation is really all it’s cracked up to be.

Broaden your horizons – volunteering can also be a good time to expand your skills, learn something new or work outside your comfort zone. It could open your eyes to different opportunities.

Research the company – know something about the company before you hit the interview, so you can show your talent for engaging in two-way conversations. Otherwise, one of my colleagues said the interviewer has to drag information out of the candidate to see if it’s a good fit. She said “I’m looking for smart, creative, interesting people and I won’t get that if you don’t put a little leg work in before we meet.”

Do a “background check” on potential managers or employers – while a Google search can be helpful, go beyond and talk to a mix of former and existing colleagues or chat online using LinkedIn as your networking mediator. Once you get to the interview stage and have marketed yourself, dig deeper and ask carefully prepared questions – is this the opportunity or manager that you’re looking for?

Be a proactive IABC member – take advantage of your membership in our professional association. Get the latest CareerLine job postings sent to you directly by subscribing to the free e-job notification service. Tap into the worldwide IABC directory to find communicators at places you want to work. The IABC/Toronto website also offers job search tips for new grads or junior communicators. Plus, networking and volunteering with IABC could help you check off some of the above tips.

Take a break when you need it – jobseekers have good days and bad. On awesome days, ride the momentum and keep researching and making calls. On bad days, take a break to refocus. Just like any other job, it helps to step back, get some fresh air, exercise or see some friends before returning to the hunt.

Thanks to the following IABC/Toronto members for their contributions to this article: Linda Andross, ABC, Sharon Beattie, Paulina Callaghan, ABC, Patrick Farrell, MBA, Bert Freeman, Andrew Hoad-Reddick, Sue Horner and Neil Hrab.

How about you? What advice have you found helpful when looking for a job? Please add your comments below and keep the conversation going.

Carrie MacAfee President, IABC/Toronto toronto-president@iabc.com

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