Job Search Stuck? Get to the Bottom of It!

By Get A Job Expert Brenda Griffin

How can we get from here to wherever it is we want to be? ~ Natasha Josefowitz

     Recently a TOOLS member blogged about her frustration with her job search.  She had been on several interviews but got no offers. She was ready to take a break.  In response, I challenged her to keep going, and to seek feedback from these employers.  That way, she can make adjustments for future interviews.  Instead of giving up, get to the bottom of the problem!  Make the best use of all your job search experiences – especially the ones where you are not yet getting the results you want. 

     The key?  Dig deep. Seek facts.  Get to the bottom of what exactly is not working, so you can change it!  The method?  Simple. Ask “why” these five times.

     Start by asking your self a basic question:  Why am I not making the progress I want in my search?   Are you not getting responses to resumes sent, even when you follow up? This would lead to digging deep into your qualifications, resume style or resume presentation. 

     Are you asked to interview, but do not receive offers?  Dig deep to consider how you interview, prepare for interviews, and how you present yourself. This is where asking for feedback from others comes in.

     Once you have this first question answered, ask yourself why five times! Here is a model to follow:

1. Why isn't my job search working?  Answer here. (Example: no interviews)
2. Why didn't I achieve that? Answer here.  (Ex: I am told my resume doesn’t match the job requirements well)
3. Why did I let that happen? Answer here. (Ex: I use only one resume for all the positions I apply for)
4. Why can't I fix it, now? Answer here. (Ex: I need more ways of doing resumes than I know how to do)

5. Why don't I do that? Answer here. (Ex: I would need to learn more about resume styles and then take the time to tailor each one for each job I apply for, so it’s clear I am a great match for that job)

Here is another example:

1. Why isn’t my job search working? (I am not getting offers after interviews.)

2. Why didn’t I achieve that? (I don’t know. Because I didn’t ask for feedback?)

3. Why did I let that happen? (I never thought to ask)

4. Why can’t I fix it now?  (I am afraid to call and ask.  I do not want to look stupid)

5. Why don’t I do that? (I should. I will make two calls this week)

     Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from employers!  Ask them what they think of your qualifications, your resume and how you interview.  Do not be afraid to ask them the five whys!  Ask specifically - what do they think you could do differently?  The more information you have on what needs to change, the better your chances of getting different results….successful results!  Dig deep. Get to the bottom of it. Ask why five times.

Never walk away from failure.  On the contrary, study it carefully – and imaginatively – for its hidden assets.        ~ Michael Korda