To be effective it must train people to built their own ship instead of waiting for one to come in. It must train people how to market themselves successfully in all circumstances.
The learning component must help people identify the best job search strategies for their personal goals; to know exactly what to do and when to do it; stay motivated in the face of frustration and rejection.
To be successful it must include an outreach program to prospective employers and search firms to ensure a continual flow of job leads, and a coaching component that supports people to
- Develop a specific focus in their job search.
- Enhance their personal development.
- Maintain drive and determination.
- Build confidence, and
- Strip away the "stuff" that isn't working.
It must also include a résumé writing service led by professionals who have an acute understanding that résumés and cover letters are personal marketing tools, NOT a rehash of templates found in Microsoft Word.
Most advice provided by so-called experts with HR and academic backgrounds about job seeking is oriented around big companies. The notion of a standard résumé, using Internet job boards, of dealing with the HR department--even the idea of interviews--is all built around the Fortune 500.
Unfortunately, the Fortune 500 has been responsible for a net loss in jobs over the last twenty years. All the growth (and the best chance to get hired) is from companies most job seekers probably never heard of. And when the hiring authority is also the owner, the rules are very different. And with different rules comes the need for different skills.
Small businesses aren’t hiring to fill a slot. Unlike a big company with an organizational chart and pay levels, the very small business is an organism, not a grid. The owner is far more likely to bring in a freelancer or someone working on spec than they are to go run a classified help wanted ad.
Teach your students personal marketing skills targeted to small businesses and watch your placements rates climb.
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