The Law of Supply and Demand is very much in play when it comes to jobs. Simply stated, an increase in the number of workers tends to result in lower wages and vice-versa. And, securing a job when unemployment is high requires a lot more than just "looking for a job."
Many people who are out of work are filling out as many applications as they can as they look for work. Who can blame them? But in today's job market, filling out an application is not enough.
When jobs weren't scare employers didn't always have the luxury of being too selective in the hiring process. Many times they needed to hire someone immediately or the bottom line would be affected in a matter of days, but it is not so today.
Because of a low economy, businesses have streamlined positions, making fewer jobs currently available. Meanwhile, more workers need jobs than before. As a result, employers can be a lot more selective. That's why those looking for employment need to do more than just fill out an application. Here are some important keys that are helpful in either looking for a new job, or, in keeping the job that you currently have.
First, it must be clearly understood what the role of an employee really is. Why is one hired in the first place? Someone is hired so that the company can be successful, make more money, and expand. Those who are seeking employment hoping that an employer will feel sorry for them, and hire them, are sadly mistaken.
Secondly, one needs to assess his or her skills and abilities. By that I mean, ask yourself, "What do I have to offer?" It may be necessary to improve those skills and abilities by increasing your knowledge and getting some additional training.
Someone sent me an email a few months ago with this statement: "When the going gets tough, the tough sharpen their tools." That couldn't more true. In today's competitive job market it's what you have to offer, not how big your smile is.
Thirdly, one needs to recognize the competition; for every job that is available, many people are endeavoring to secure that job. The reality is that in these days, the competition is fierce. And employers know that they can be much more selective than they could a couple of years ago.
So, what sets you apart from the rest? What is it that you can do to stand out in the crowd? What is it that you have to offer?
Picture yourself as an employer, needing to hire one person for a certain job at your company. There is a stack of fifty neatly filled out applications. And now, you begin to interview the prospective hirees.
One after another you talk to qualified people who tell you their sad story. They tell you that they really need the job so that they won't lose their house. They tell you that are having a very difficult time making their health insurance payments. They tell you that their savings is almost depleted.
Then, suddenly, you are interviewing someone who has something different to say. They know that it is obvious to you that they have been laid off. They realize that you probably understand what those ramifications would be. But, in the interview, they don't talk about themselves, they talk about the company.
They have done their homework and have knowledge and understanding of your company. They show you how hiring them will benefit your company. They explain to you in detail how they plan to contribute to your company's growth and expansion.
As an employer who has to make a choice of hiring one person out of fifty, wouldn't you want to hire that person? Yes, it is sad that there are many, many people who have lost their jobs and desperately need to go to work. But in today's job market, with the escalated numbers of those seeking employment, you must do something to stand out.
There are people praying every day to find a new job. There's certainly nothing wrong with that. But along with prayer, one needs to recognize what the role of an employee really is; you need improve your skills and abilities; and you need to do whatever you can to stand out and show a prospective employer what you have to offer.
So, are you just looking for a job, or, are you looking for a company that will be better as a result of hiring you? Don't just look for a paycheck; look to make an impact.
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Michael A. Verdicchio offers a FREE MEMBERSHIP to, "Enriching Your Life Now!" as well as a FREE NEWSLETTER at
http://www.ConfidenceAndJoy.com He also offers a FREE series of articles on success at
http://www.ReducingStressAtWork.com
Michael is a husband, father, minister, author, and broadcaster. He has been the voice on numerous projects and productions including Mike's Pep Talks!
