Career Strategies

Many people when they begin their job search tend to try and be a jack of all trades. They don't want to be excluded from any possible opportunities so they aim for as many skill sets as possible. This strategy may seem logical but it can more than likely have the reverse effect. The industry is headed toward niches. We can see this new wave reported in many newspapers and magazines. Niches cater to an untapped market in desperate need or shortage. The same is true of the job market. Because there are so many people unemployed and looking for work, employers can afford to pick only the best. Let's say you are going for a job for a receptionist position. You have a great resume with varied experience at top level companies. Now another person comes along with a resume that lists a history of only receptionist positions with at least four companies. Who do you think the employer would pick? Obviously the one where there is a concentration of the skill set they are looking for. Bottom line is that if you are seen as an expert in your field and target that specific field, your chances are not only good that you'll get the job; but in most cases, you can command a salary of at least 10% to 15% more than what they were willing to pay. So keep this in mind when preparing your resume.