1. VAMPIRE.
Fresh blood (the fresher, the better!) is necessary for vampire survival. Vampires spend many of their waking hours searching for blood. Similarly, in order for your job search to be successful, you need to set aside adequate time and have “fresh” credentials.
TIPS:
- Put in the Hours! The Pareto Principle states that 20% of your input creates 80% of your results. Focus on the 20% of what is working and you’ll save time and get faster results.
- Consider taking refresher courses if skills necessary for your job target are out-of-date.
2.) SHAPESHIFTER
Shapeshifters are humans that can transform at-will into one of several animals while maintaining their innate consciousness. If your job search is shape-shifting, you’re probably applying for many types of jobs, all while using the same or very similar versions of a resume. Without a specific direction of where you want to go, how will you get there, and how will others be able to help you?
TIP:
- Lack of clarity is, perhaps, the biggest reason for unemployment and underemployment. Start with an honest self-assessment in order to effectively target your job search.
3.) ZOMBIE
Zombies’ only instinct is only to feed off living flesh. They are mindless, misguided, and eat anything in sight. Job search zombies blindly feed off jobs published online, never realizing that most jobs are secured through the “hidden job market.”
TIP:
- Sadly, many jobs that are posted online are already slated or filled. You’re much more likely to get hired as a referred candidate than one of thousands of online applicants.
4.) SIREN
The Sirens of Greek mythology looked like beautiful women, but were really man-eating beasts. They had seductive, mesmerizing voices that caused men to become obsessed. If a siren is affecting your job search, you’re likely deciding on a job too quickly, based on a fancy title, large salary, or the promises of future rewards with a sales-pitch delivered by a shady recruiter. Sirens can also masquerade as the well-intentioned “friend” who convinces you to help them out while you’re unemployed.
TIP:
- Remember that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Know that it’s ok to say no if you do it politely, without burning bridges.
5.) FRANKENSTEIN
Frankenstein is known for feeling utterly alone in the world, shunned by humanity, without anyone to understand him. Frankenstein might be haunting you if you’re feeling misunderstood, isolated, or judged during your period of unemployment/underemployment.
TIP:
- You may be surprised how many others are in the same situation! Consider joining a support or networking group. Employers hire people who are confident and likable, not people who are negative
