Waiting proactively in your job search

Taking ownership and moving the process forward with email and other effective channels

You connected with people offline, you’ve gone out to networking events, and you’ve tried multiple strategies by promoting your work online. Now the waiting begins. Sometimes it’s just a matter of time, the person reviewing your application might be busy or on vacation.

That said, when I was looking for a job without having one—every day counts. If that’s the case, you have more control than you think. Here are two primary actions you can take,

Continue applying to more places, or Follow-up with places you’ve applied to get a clear answer on where you stand and what the next step is

Since we already covered various strategies for the former, we’ll focus primarily on the latter half — the follow-up. A big part of getting the first (phone) interview is figuring out what’s happening on the other side. Did they get your application? Is the job still open?

You can get to an answer by proactively reaching out to the employer by:

Sending a personalized email reiterating your interest and letting them know about your application Calling on the phone and potentially leaving a succinct, actionable voicemail that get them to respond Meeting in person through a networking event or even for coffee

Your approach should be personable and focused. You’re not looking for any job. You’re interested in this specific position that this company has and it would be their loss to not hire you.

Job searching is similar to sales and sales is about building relationships. Credits

Sales thinking for job applicants

What comes to mind when you think of sales? Mad men? Do you view it as a necessary evil? The truth is, promoting your work, letting people know of your achievements is a big part of career success long after you get the job.

Think of applying to jobs as a sales process with a cycle. Every application you submit is like prospecting. You’re generating a qualified list of companies and roles that could be a good fit. Then you develop that relationship further through various means of contact.

An important part of sales is understanding your clients’ needs. After your conversation you might discover that this is not the right place for you after all. Or they might reveal specific requirements they’re looking for that you can mention to them in your presentation.