Why Do You Want A Job

Job seekers, not only in Nashville but everywhere, primarily look for a job for two reasons. Financial survival (to eat and put a roof over their heads) is certainly a big reason for many individuals. The second reason is to improve a person’s standing above their present situation, whether a higher paying position or more satisfying work. Determining your primary purpose or goal should help establish what type of job you need now and how to go about getting it resulting in fewer pitfalls during your search.

            If you are out of work or about to be thrown out of your home by the bank because you are not making enough money for basic living expenses and there are no other or limited sources of income in your household - you need to take a close look at your employment situation. Survival is probably your real goal, not a career job.

            There are questions you need to ask yourself before beginning your search. Are you in a field that has plenty of opportunities? Are there barriers preventing you from finding employment quickly such as local layoffs and an abundance of unemployed job seekers? Is it likely that you will find a job in a few weeks, a few months or much longer?  How long can you go without a working income?

If your chance of finding a job is going to take a lot of time, setting up a short term strategy to reduce financial pressure is probably your best approach. Take a look at what types of jobs are available in your community. Can you take a part-time position to earn at least some income? Can you work in another field that might pay less? Are there temporary positions available that fit your skills? Can you get a contract job?

Consider that in today’s economy, in order to control costs, a lot of employers are using contract labor or temporary labor. In a lot of situations these positions can lead to full-time employment. So, a short-term job can lead to a full-time position.

At the very least you will be bringing home a paycheck. This will reduce the pressure on you and you can look for a full time position in your off time.

Also, consider going back to school to brush up on your skills or even to earn a degree in a more promising field – one you have always dreamed of.

In a lot of cases, employers that may not pay very much will assist with continuing education expenses. Take advantage of what is offered. Position yourself for a better future.

You may have to take the first position offered that is not even in your field. I advise not taking a commission job unless it has a substantial base.

If you are in the other situation of wanting a better job your search should be different.

            Some employment surveys estimate that at least 50 percent of U.S. employees would like to find another job. If you are one of these millions of employees, your approach of looking for a job should be different from those that are not employed. The pressure of day to day survival is much less of a factor.

            If this is your situation, there are questions you should ask yourself. Do you want to stay with the same employer or move elsewhere? Do you want to change fields?

If you are happy with your employer and not your job, maybe finding a new job just means moving to another position where you are presently working. It is not always necessary to find a job elsewhere.

There are things you can do to be promoted or at least be moved to another department. Be visible. Be positive. Volunteer for special projects. Follow the rules like taking only scheduled breaks. Socialize with people in other departments and find out what positions are available. Keep an eye on the employer’s job board. Sometimes positions are posted and few in-house know they are available. If you are interested in certain jobs find out what additional educational requirements are necessary and take courses to meet them. Apply when the right position is presented.

If you want to move to another employer watch the newspaper classifieds and employment Web sites, particularly the sites that specialize in your field. If you plan on moving up or shifting to another type of position in your field, take courses that will help you meet the requirements. Set up a strong resume and cover letter.

Whatever you situation, try and have a strategy to follow. It will help you focus on and accomplish your true goal of a better job.