It’s one of my favorite phrases used by Dr. Phil: “How’s that Working for You?” and it is a good question to ask if you are finding that your job search isn’t going exactly as planned. If you are beginning to feel a tad frustrated or discouraged, it may be time to change your approach. Do something differently! Let me explain:

Are you spending countless hours filling out applications on line, only to discover that companies aren’t replying? STOP IT! Back away from your daily routine and take inventory. Are you applying to the same type of job? Maybe you need to look at other options. For example, you keep looking at the job title and applying. Perhaps it would help if you drilled a little deeper and looked at the competencies of various roles and see if you may be a match in another position.

Do you skip attaching a cover letter thinking that your resume stands out and nothing more is needed. Stop that madness, will you? A good cover letter can give the employer additional perspective into your personal goals and help them see your VALUE PROPOSITION and how having you as an employee will benefit their company. It’s also an opportunity to let the company know that you are open to negotiating a salary (the Applicant Tracking System tends to “box” you in to your last salary and companies think that is what you are looking for now). Things change. Help the potential employer see that.

Finally, don’t give up on networking. Reach out to people you may have contacted early on in your job search and let them know you are still looking. Ask them if they have any other people that would talk with you to give you ideas. Keep apprised of news in your community and your industry and ask for a meeting with someone who may be starting up a business or hiring. You NEVER, ever know where it will lead.

I’ve heard that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. Change can be your friend. Embrace it and ask yourself, again, “How’s that working for you?”

Here’s to S.O.A.Ring!