John-Paul Hatala

Ever since the job seeker from the US purchased Google adwords on 5 people he wanted to work for (and successfully secured 2 interviews), anything goes . What are you doing to separate yourself from the competitive pack?

No longer is the traditional 'submit a cover letter and resume' strategy going to work. It's time to step outside the box and separate yourself from the crowd. Do you attempt to contact the employer prior to submitting your resume to gather more information or have you identified a need an organization has and demonstrate to them how you would be able to address it? Whatever the approach, it's time to step outside the box and demonstrate that you're different.

The reality is that we're experiencing one of the most competitive job markets in recent memory and if the job seeker is not willing to separate themselves from the pack, the chances of finding a job dramatically diminishes. I'm not suggesting we get crazy about this (or maybe I am) but we do need to think more creatively in reaching out to organizations we want to work for.

Whether it's putting a billboard on and walking down the street advertising your work experience or placing an ad in the local newspaper I want to hear your most creative thoughts on finding a job. They can be actual events or something that you've made up, I don't care, I just want to hear some thoughts on being creative.

So here's the challenge. Let me know what you have done, heard of someone doing or something you think would be helpful in finding a job. Share with the Contact Point Network your craziest ideas. It's time we get creative with the job search and get noticed.

JP