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The Top 10
Rules, as listed on Fein and Schneider's Web site, and how you
can apply them to your job search.
Rule No.1: Be a creature unlike any other.
This Rule entails adapting a sense of confidence that others
around you will notice. As a job seeker, you certainly want to
stand out among the competition, and one of the easiest ways
you can get a potential employer to notice you is through your
attitude. The authors also recommend pausing in between
sentences (to avoid babbling out of nervousness), listening
intently and standing up straight, all things that will also
help job candidates convey poise and professionalism in an
interview.
Rule No. 2: Show up to dances, parties and social events
even if you do not feel like it.
This Rule emphasizes one of the most valuable steps in
job-searching: networking. It's hard to find The One if you're
sitting at home in front of a computer. Make an effort to meet
new people and try new things, and you may just meet someone
who knows of a job that's perfect for you.
Rule No. 3: Don't waste time on a fantasy relationship.
Be realistic in your job search. If you're not getting any
responses, look at the types of jobs to which you're applying.
Are you shooting too high, too soon? Of course you should
apply for the job you want, but be aware of what you are and
are not qualified for. If your dream is to be the
editor-in-chief of a large metropolitan newspaper, you will
probably need more experience than copy editor for your
neighborhood newsletter.
Rule No. 4: On all nonbusiness e-mails, responding once for
every four of his e-mails is a good rule of thumb.
Remember, you never know who has access to your e-mail, so
keep all romance off the screen and save it for Saturday
nights. Romance aside, this Rule is simply good workplace
advice for keeping that job once you finally do get it.
Rule No. 5: On the first three dates, we don't have sex
with a man or have him stay at our place overnight.
At least when one replaces the word "date" with "interview"
and "man" with "interviewer," Rule No. 5 is definitely one to
live by.
Rule No. 6: When placing your [personal] ad, remember that
every man has a type, a voice or a look he likes.
Think of your cover letter as your personal ad, because in
many ways it is your chance to make yourself sound attractive
to employers. Tailor it to the wants and needs of the employer
and the specific position for which you're applying. You may
be the best darn dart-player in all of Hancock County, but
leave it out of your cover letter if it isn't relevant to the
type of job you're seeking.
Rule No. 7: If he doesn't call, he is not interested.
Period.
Show interest, but don't waste time on a company that's just
not responsive. When it comes to job hunting, it's okay and
often necessary to make the first move. You should always
follow up a résumé with a call a few days later and send a
thank-you note after an interview. But while it pays to be
persistent, but don't be annoying. If weeks pass by and you've
still gotten no response, take a hint from this Rule and move
on.
Rule No. 8: Close the deal.
The Rules are to a marriage proposal what these rules are to a
job offer. If you get one, you've obviously done everything
right. But remember that it's okay to negotiate a salary. You
wouldn't accept a half-carat diamond ring when you know you
deserve a three-quarter one, so if you know that the offer
they've given you is less than you deserve, tell them that you
believe you have the experience necessary to receive the
higher end of the advertised salary range. Taking time to
consider the offer, instead of accepting immediately, will
demonstrate that you are thoughtful, knowledgeable and can
hold your ground.
Rule No. 9: Buyer beware.
Observe his behavior so that you do not end up with Mr. Wrong.
Remember that your interview is also a chance for you to ask
questions and make assessments. Just because a company likes
you does not mean that you will like that company. Consider
whether the job and company you're applying for are a true fit
for you. Ask yourself if you could honestly see yourself
working there. How does the boss treat his employees? Do the
employees seem to like the company? Was the interviewer
welcoming and interested in you? Your job search, much like
your search for Mr. or Mrs. Right, is about finding a place
that's right for you.
Rule No. 10: Keep doing the Rules, even when things are
slow.
Job hunting can be discouraging and exhausting, but remember
that the final outcome will be worth all that perseverance.
Cheer yourself on with some positive reinforcements (Fein and
Schneider suggest building up your confidence with slogans
such as "I am a beautiful woman" and "I am enough," but feel
free to exercise a little artistic license). |
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