Don't Fill Out Job Applications

If you are filling out job applications and not getting the job you want then your problem is likely resulting from filling out job applications in the first place. Unless you are simply looking for part time work during the holidays or to become debt-free, there is little reason to ever fill out a job application.

An effective job search always begins with knowing your personal tendencies. How is it that you are wired? What lights you on fire? Are you a morning person or late-night person? Take this into consideration before beginning to narrow down any career. If you cannot stand to be awake before 9 am do not even think about becoming a grade school teacher. Trust me, many kids will appreciate that.

Once you know your tendencies you can begin to identify your skills and abilities and your values, dreams and passions. These things all combine into your "perfect" job. The thing you would do if money were not an issue. This career is why you wake up in the morning and is why you are too excited to sleep at night.

At this point you can begin to identify between twenty and forty companies that do what it is you do. Regardless if whether or not they are hiring or you do not possess the right degree, they need to be on the list.

This list should then be narrowed down to about twenty companies, of which you will send an introduction letter, then a cover letter and resume and follow-up with fervent contact via phone, mail and email.

This process completely bypasses the application process (ever struggled with answering why you left your previous job or how much money you need to make?) and gets you right in front of the decision makers; the very people who decide if they want you working with them or not.

General warning - this is not an easy process. It is however, much less work than blasting out resumes by the hundred or thousands, posting them all over the web and filling out countless applications for positions you may not even like.

Justin & Rachel Lukasavige are Personal and Health Coaches at Lukas Coaching. Visit www.lukascoaching.com/resources.htm for a ton of free tools to help you improve your health, finances, business, career & life!

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