Guest Author - Gwendolyn Thompson
Competition is high in today’s tough job market resulting in more people turning to unconventional job search tactics that will attract more attention by the hiring managers. Doing something in a different way than the traditional forms of job searching can get you noticed and make you stand out.
These tactics need to be done with professionalism so that you are remembered for what you can offer the company and not just for the unusual tactful way that you applied for the job. Hiring managers are held responsible for their hiring referrals and are not interested in unqualified applicants.
Extreme tactics can back fire if you are not careful. There are creative and inventive ways that will show off your skills and talents, that can benefit the company, and get you remembered. Outrageous tactics such as sending a telegram of your resume may get you remembered as a laugh at the next office party.
The following are some unusual job search tactics that have been reported as unusual methods that have worked for applicants in getting the job that they desired. This will give you some ideas to tailor to your own expertise in today’s tough job market.
Send an interesting company article. Attach a note stating “I thought you might be interested in this” along with a note letting the company know that you are interested in them and how you could contribute to their company along with your contact information.
Send your cover letter and resume to someone currently working for the company. They will get to view it first before hand delivering it to the HR department. The HR department will view it first because it was delivered priority to them by an employee.
Make a DVD or a Video resume that includes a demonstration of your work. Research the company and offer advice on how you can benefit them. Include a paper form of your resume and mail it to the company that you are seeking employment with.
Always make sure that you are fully qualified for a position before sending your information. Hiring managers will not look at anything that does not fully meet all qualifications required by the opening. Be creatively persistent and enthusiastic and prepared to prove your skills in your follow up.
