Job Search Paradox: How Past Successes Might Be a Hindrance Today

In critically reviewing the more robust job markets in recent times and its then-prevailing job search successes, there are valuable lessons for today’s job seekers – mostly what not to do. 

Many job seekers relied on a couple of techniques that by themselves are simply not consistently successful in today’s much more challenging job market.   Searches commonly were disjointed internet-based flurries of activity to gain maximum exposure to known openings that centered on:

• A quick resume update to include the most recent role.
• Marathon online searches for job postings and then a blitz of resume submittals.
• A reach-out to multiple recruiters with a “more is better” mentality.
• Networking to the “first level” of close contacts to inquire about jobs. 

But the success some job seekers achieved masked a fundamental flaw in their search – it lacked a strategy.  Like a type of muscle memory, those past approaches unfortunately are relied upon again today by many because they are associated with past success.    

But a well-planned, multi-mode job search strategy from the start is the single most critical success factor.  A defined strategic plan with the proper underlying tactics, if followed diligently and with precision, will lead to much more consistent success with shorter timeframes.

Some job seekers are actively looking for the first time while others are frustrated by the lack of success in using their past approaches.  But once both realize that their time is better spent identifying under-the-radar opportunities, not chasing the known openings that brings major competition and overwhelmed hiring companies, they are shifting to a more strategic view.  They should also: 

• Build and then aggressively target market one’s brand and personal value proposition.
• Use the internet for research and networking but make personal contacts as well.
• Use recruiters selectively and learn to partner with them to make them your advocate.
• Networking needs to be multi-level and reciprocal in nature, not simply asking for a job. 

Interestingly, a key lesson can also be learned from investment managers.  Their caveat that “past success does not guarantee future performance” is applicable is some ways to job searches.  Just as investment companies can’t rely on their successful bull market approaches in bear markets, the job seeker needs not only a defined strategy but one that maps to the current market conditions.     

The single-threaded tactical searches just won’t work consistently and they must give way to the formulation and execution of strategic search plans, which can and should be used in any job market.


Dave Foulke is the founder of STRATEGENT, a career and job services consultancy that provides two distinct, separate lines of business including corporate recruitment services and job search coaching.  
A key coaching offering is SEARCHOLOGY, a strategic, multi-step job search methodology that was designed for job seekers in need of assistance. It is predicated on best practices compiled from years of hands-on experience in both recruitment and hiring authority roles.  He can be contacted at davef@strategent.com or (919) 847-8382.

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