Unconventional Job Hunting Advice for Today's Unconventional Job Market

All too often, you’ll see a lot of the same tips when it comes to job hunting in today’s job market. How to dress; what to include or not include on your resume; how to answer questions; etc. Here, we’ll offer up some of the things you won’t hear all that often in your career search but still is helpful everyday advice that you can actually use.

Monday’s Too Tense and Friday’s Too Casual: Hit the In-Between Days

Haven’t heard from an employer and are nervous about when to contact them? It happens to everybody. The general rule is to give them some breathing room before contacting them even after they’ve said they will contact you. If they say they’ll contact you on a Monday, give them a week or so before you rush into that phone call. But more importantly, choose your days in which to contact them wisely. Nobody likes Mondays, even employers. And Fridays are one of those days where the attitude is going to be as casual as the dress code. Instead, opt for the days that are in-between. Tuesdays and Thursdays are those days when people are focused and into their work, so they’ll make perfect days to make that phone call to inquire whether or not they’ve come to a decision and to remind them of your strengths.

What’s Your Name Again?
Going into a new place (any new place!) can be difficult and confusing. You’re meeting new people on a minute-by-minute basis and often in flurries. It’s difficult to keep in mind and remember the name of every new person who crosses your path. However, remember one’s name shows that your personable and personal – people just like it. And while it seems small, it can go a long way in making an impression. If you’re one who finds it difficult to remember people’s name, associate a person’s eye color with their name when you first meet them. Studies show this association helps in memory retention, and later, you’ll be able to recall their name simply because you recognized a color during that first encounter. If all else fails and you find yourself in an interview unable to recall who’s sitting across from you, look for nameplates, diplomas and other items that might shed a little light on their identity.

Don't Come in Early (But Never Come in Late)
Interviews are always tricky situations. What to wear, what to bring, what to say - everything feels premeditated, and it should! But adding awkward onto awkward isn't going to help the situation out either. And timing is crucial to everything. While it's good to show up to an interview early (and always prepared) it's never a good thing to show up too early, and it's never a good thing to show up late. Instead, exercise moderation. Walking in seven minutes before the scheduled interview is the perfect time to insure that you won't be waiting long and you'll still be punctual.