Realistically analyze and identify your interests, strengths
and weaknesses, complementing your analysis by the results of proven
diagnostic tools and objective assessments.
Identify specific, unique attributes and/or work experiences
that set you apart from other job seekers. There are many people with
good track records and sound skills. In order to develop an edge, you
must identify and capitalize on those aspects that make you unique.
Target specific program/service areas that match your profile
and your developmental needs.
Determine where you would really like to work and why. Become
as knowledgeable as possible about these areas and be able to effectively
demonstrate that your sound knowledge of the mandate, operations and
needs of the organization can contribute to meeting those needs.
Within your own department, seek cross-sectional assignments
that will provide you with new contacts that fall within your career
path/goals.
Consider asking your superior to use his or her contacts
to open doors and help obtain assignments or secondments.
Call on your own network of colleagues, friends and acquaintances,
who may not only direct you to possible employment opportunities, but
can also offer support in your search. They can provide feedback on
your job-search strategy, suggest employers to approach, and give you
tips on how to do so.
Arrange meetings with appropriate contacts. To get a manager
to set aside time to see you, you should emphasize that you realize
there are likely no openings in the manager's organization. Respect
your time allotment.
During the meeting, demonstrate how your particular skills
and experience can serve a manager's needs and bring added value to
the organization. At the end of the meeting, ask the manager to suggest
the names of others who could make use of your services. Seek advice
on how to improve your presentation and/or CV. Leave a business card.
If you have not already left your résumé, send it within
a week.
Send a thank you note to a manager who has spent time giving
you advice, as well as to other people who helped you in your search.
