10 Reasons You Should Regularly Read A Job Search Blog
Now, coming from a guy who regularly writes a job search blog, you might find this post a bit self-serving. And, if I’m honest, you’re probably right. I would love it if you would regularly read this blog. In fact, there are two very easy ways to make it effortless: via e-mail or RSS feed sign-ups on the sidebar, stage right.
This particular blog is about the strategy and psychology of successful job search. Strategy is really important. A positive psychology (aka confidence) is critical. How? If your strategy gets you the interview but your confidence keeps you from getting the offer, you’ll know. You build confidence by knowing that you are prepared for every possible scenario. And by learning how to believe in yourself.
I try to write this blog in a way that feels less like a self-help book and more like a fun guided tour. I’m inspired by Steve Martin, Chevy Chase and Monty Python if that helps you at all. You see, while job search can be painful, frustrating and heart-breaking it can also be a great time of reflection on what really matters in life. In between networking and interviewing, you have a unique opportunity to live, hang out with your kids and explore your passions.
We’ve all made them at some point. In truth, there is an etiquette in the job search world. There are ways you can strain or break a networking relationship or ways that you can over-communicate with a company. Regularly reading a blog can help you catch a mistake before it is made. Sound good? Try this post on for size.
Really? Yes. But how, you say. Well, by commenting on a blog when the mood strikes. Other regular readers see your comments and can comment back to you or build on your idea. Do this
long enough and you’ve found a friend. Someone who thinks like you do. Also, a lot of blogs have companion groups on Linkedin, Yahoo or a companion website. Once a member there, it is really easy to build relationships and, before you know it, you are networking.
On Tim’s Strategy, encouragement comes in two forms. First there is the traditional sort. Feels good and warms your heart. The second part can be more blunt and unsettling. That is the sort which acts as a wake up call. I’ve found that the friendly encouragement will not jolt you out of a bad pattern. Here, in my experience, only a two by four (to the side of the forehead) will do. Some things cannot be said gently.
Here on the blog as well as on the Linkedin group, questions are encouraged. And most all get answered. As a later blog post, a return comment or via a personal e-mail. Unlike a big networking event or seminar where you are forced to stand up and ask in front of “everyone”, on a blog you can be somewhat anonymous. And you get the benefit of the blogger’s experience as well as all the other visitors whose experiences may benefit you as well.
Let’s face it. Some days, when looking for work, things can seem bleak. There are days when nothing happens. No one calls and no one writes. It may seem like you are the only one not getting interviews. Not true. But you’ll only realize that when you hear it from other job seekers. So, to avoid living inside your own little world, open up the curtains and let the sun in. Sun = blog in case I lost you there.
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Tags: blog | Career | Job Search | read | Strategy
Categories: Finding A Job







Clare May 6, 2009 @ 1:38 am
A very nice article – well said Tim!
Tim Tyrell-Smith May 6, 2009 @ 6:37 am
Thank you, Clare. I read and commented on your post at http://www.jobsearchsuccess.com re: focus. Great advice!
Clare May 6, 2009 @ 8:01 am
Thanks Tim! Appreciate your support…
Cristy Myers May 6, 2009 @ 9:02 am
I more regularly read yours than any other!!
cher May 6, 2009 @ 4:20 pm
Tim,
Found you on Woman for Hire, LinkedIn… Pay it Forward…
good for you… yes, I will keep checking back on your site.
I have a job, however, sole owners, are always looking for the next great gig, fit etc. Looking forward to checking out your web blog…..Cheryl NYC
Tim Tyrell-Smith May 7, 2009 @ 12:05 am
Thanks Cristy – hope to keep earning your trust!
Tim Tyrell-Smith May 7, 2009 @ 12:14 am
Thanks Cher – glad to be found! Appreciate your saying hello . . .
Joan Schramm May 7, 2009 @ 9:17 am
Tim –
I recently discovered your blog through LinkedIn, and it has become something I read regularly. You put out excellent information, simply presented and easy to understand, and always with the goal of making things better for your readers. Great job, and thanks!
Barry May 7, 2009 @ 10:48 am
Tim,
Just discovered your blog…thanks for your honesty & clarity. I’ll visit often. The “10 Reasons” hit the mark perfectly. I’m joining…
Tim Tyrell-Smith May 7, 2009 @ 6:29 pm
Great, Barry. Welcome!
Tim Tyrell-Smith May 7, 2009 @ 6:30 pm
Hi Joan – Thanks for your feedback. Glad to have you here!
ItsNotYouItsYourResume.com May 8, 2009 @ 3:29 pm
Love the topic and content. Interesting the amount of work that is needed to find a job these days… the more you know the better!
Devaraghavendran.Peddi May 9, 2009 @ 12:11 am
Very good article very interested to have the useful articles more for this
Bernie Warren May 10, 2009 @ 11:23 am
Thanx Tim. As always, good, common sense advice. That’s why I keep coming back!
Tim Tyrell-Smith May 10, 2009 @ 5:29 pm
Thanks Bernie – Appreciate the reminder!
Jeannette July 14, 2010 @ 1:16 pm
Hey Tim – you got me! I’ve been one of your “silent fans” for a long time now.
So I’m blogging back. As a web marketing and content strategist, I’ve been looking for ways to use LinkedIn more effectively. I don’t use Facebook to promote myself – yet. Jury’s still out – as there is conflicting information of the effectiveness of this. I agree with your 10 Reasons to read your blog. I include many tips in my job search strategy here in the Bay Area. For now, I’m building my web consulting business as the competition for FT work here is FIERCE.
Anyway – your writing style is engaging and I appreciate the authenticity.
Back to your next blog. Thanks for all that you do!
Tim Tyrell-Smith July 15, 2010 @ 5:48 am
Jeanette – Welcome into the warm sum.
And thanks for that feedback! Good luck on finding your next role – have heard the same re: the competitive nature of things in the Bay Area. I was born and raised in Marin by the way . . .