Job search, like almost everything else, has changed in the 21st century. For instance, you may be wondering, “Is it still correct to use ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ in a cover letter?” (Actually not..)
This question provides the opening for a provocative article in Business Week. Read the full article here. I’ve added my thoughts in this post.
There are two reasons to avoid outdated search tactics. First, you could be branded as ‘older.” More important, as a new hire of any age, you are supposed to bring a fresh wave to the company. You’re expected to show that you’re up to date on trends and practices. As this article notes, if you haven’t noticed that ‘Dear Sir or Madam” hasn’t been used in the past 30 years, what else aren’t you noticing?
You might say, “That’s an unfair question.” I would agree. After all, how often do we write letters to anyone, let alone strangers in a business environment? Why would we even notice?
Career change and job search represent critical points in a person’s life for which we are usually unprepared. Other critical points include surgery and buying a home. We just don’t do these things enough to learn how to make wise decisions. And time pressures usually preclude the kind of careful research we would like to undertake. That is why so many people seek out professional advisors, such as case managers in health care or career coaches for careers.
What do YOU think? What are some elements of the culture that should be emphasized in a job search?
What outdated tactics have YOU seen in the workplace?
Answer below. If you don’t see a place to comment, click on the title of this post and you will be taken to a page that allows comments.
[…] enough to take you where you want to go tomorrow. One place to start is this article that explores 5 Outdated Job Search Tactics. And of course, as a Career Coach, I’m always willing to talk with you about more trends and […]