Create Your Own Job!

Job seekers can create jobs! We usually think that businesses create jobs, then job seekers look at the list of job openings and try to get one for themselves. What causes the businessperson to create a new job? Knowing the answer to that question will give you a tremendous advantage in your job search efforts.

Jobs are created when a business decision maker realizes that the solution to a specific problem is to create a new job. Business managers and executives are constantly making and implementing plans in order to achieve the goals set before them. Achieving those goals means solving problems that stand in the way of that success.

Sometimes it is obvious that a new position is required to move the business toward its objective. However, often the decision to create a new job is not the obvious answer to a problem. In those cases the idea that a new job is needed does not occur until some specific event triggers it. The idea to create a job is often triggered when a business decision maker encounters a person with the talents, abilities, skills, and knowledge to help the business overcome a problem and move forward in achieving its goals.

A caller to a talk radio program I recently heard was the owner of a small business who described exactly that same experience. A woman came to him and asked if he had any openings. His immediate response was no I do not have any job openings. However, as their conversation continued and she talked about her background and experience, he began to see that she might be able to help his business. He created a new job for her. I have seen this happen many times.

A primary part of your job search should be a plan of action that brings you together with business managers and executives who need your skills in their companies. Those meetings often result in the businessperson realizing that creating a new job for you can help solve a problem the business has.

Of course, you must approach the businessperson in the proper way. You should consider the way you like to be approached when planning how best to arrange such meetings. Your approach should be gradual and non-threatening. Then use letters, email, and phone calls to set up those meetings. Keep in mind that it may take several attempts to secure a meeting.

You should also plan and practice how you will conduct yourself during the meetings. Refer to the other posts on this blog for advice. Generally, conduct yourself in a cooperative, non-aggressive manner.

Creating your own job may seem strange and different from what you've tried in the past. It is exactly the "outside-the-box" type of thinking that will give you an advantage over others. Studies by a Harvard researcher and the U.S. Department of Labor show that most jobs are found using such non-traditional, informal methods.

Take the advice above and try it. What have you got to lose? If you need help in putting these ideas to work for you, Job Finding Formula shows how to do that.

Michael Britner
Job Finding Master