Kick-starting interview opportunities

By Daisy Carrington, amNewYork Deputy Features Editor | dcarrington@am-ny.com

July 9, 2007

I have been employed in a clerical position at the same company since 1982. The boss I've had for the past six years, though very polite, gives me nothing to do. He answers his own phones and writes his own memos.

If I ask for an increase, he responds, "What do you do?" with a smirk on his face.

That said, I've been submitting my resume around, and though I have a good reputation at my company, I haven't been called in for any interviews. Can you offer some advice?
-- Bored Senseless, Manhattan

Though job boards and job postings may seem like the most obvious means of getting a job, they are actually the least effective tool you can use in your search.

"When you respond to a job posting, you're one of many," points out Annemarie Segaric, a Manhattan-based career change coach. "Your resume is being sent out into Never Never Land."

Instead, Segaric advises employing a little (okay, a lot of) networking. Start by compiling a list of everyone -- and we mean everyone -- you know, respect and trust, and send them each an e-mail stating what type of position you're looking for.

Ask them if they know anyone who does this kind of work. Tell them you're not necessarily looking to get a job, but just looking to make new connections.

"I ask my clients, 'Does your dry-cleaner know you're looking for a job?'" Segaric says. "Everyone knows a ton of people, and people really like helping out. You just have to make it easy for them to help."

Also, if you're not getting responses, there is a chance your resume doesn't accurately reflect the good work you've done in the past.

Segaric advises having a few friends take a look at your resume and cover letters just to make sure they're not sending out any red flags.