Job Search Myths
| MYTH | Someone will find a job for me -- an employment agency, the placement office, etc. |
|---|---|
| REALITY | Most jobs are not well advertised. A federal study shows that fewer than 5% find jobs through an employment agency and fewer than 12% by newspaper ads. |
| MYTH | Degree/Job -- In other words, if I can't find a job, it means I will have to go back to school. |
| REALITY | Your degree, or amount of formal education, while extremely important, does not guarantee a job. Having more education, or a " better " degree, doesn't necessarily mean getting the job you want either. There are many variables that an employer seeks. Assuming you do meet the minimal educational requirements set forth by an employer, much of your success in landing a job lies in your ability to assess the totality of your life experiences, relate them to your career goals and to the job opening you are pursuing. Your ability to sell yourself is important. |
| MYTH | Jobs are advertised -- So if it isn't in the newspaper, etc., it isn't there |
| REALITY | Most people locate job openings through referral; more than 50% of the jobs you'll have in your lifetime you will have found out about because of a referral. Most experts estimate that 75% of all jobs are not advertised, creating a hidden job market. |
| MYTH | Job hunting is something that should be done in as little time as possible. |
| REALITY | Looking for a job is time-consuming. Most people who complain about "not being able to find anything" spend five or so actual hours per week looking for a job - the rest is talk. |
| MYTH | Finding a job is a matter of luck. Finding a job is a matter of luck. |
| REALITY | People do not obtain jobs by luck or chance. What looks like a lucky break probably occurred because the person worked to have that chance. |
| MYTH | Looking for a job is a necessary evil. |
| REALITY | Believe it or not, job hunting can be an enjoyable, growth-producing experience. Socially, you can meet many interesting people while job searching. Personally, you can gain values as you weigh one position against another and make decisions based on your life goals. |
Last modified: November 16, 2006 15:48:43