Tips for job seekers and Halloween trick or treaters are just about the same. Think about how each of these directly applies to looking for a job.
- If you are scared, get your dad (a coach) to help on a few doors.
- Dress for success. Look the part from your hair to your shoes, bag and greeting.
- The neighborhood you call on defines the size of the treats you get.
- Not everyone is giving out one pound candy bars, but they are all worth visiting.
- The more houses you call on, the more likely you will get a one pound candy bar.
- Go BACK to the biggest house with the best candy later.
- The most successful trick or treaters plan their routes and run from door to door.
- If you don’t knock, they won’t answer.
- If the porch light is out, you won’t get any candy, but you may get advice.
- Some of the scariest houses give the best treats.
- You get more treats if you start early and work late.
- Asking for candy in the traditional way works, ingenuity may get you more.
- Helping a little kid can double your take.
- Always say thank you.
- Sometimes they just ran out of treats, sorry.
- Going with friends (groups and social media) can make a scary neighborhood safer.
- It is a night of cold calling, even if you know the people.
- Trade candy (leads) afterwards to get what you really want.
- If you go to a party instead, and complain, you won’t get a big bag of candy.
- Don’t blow out the candle in the pumpkin.
- Do it again next year, only better, now that you have experience.
Wow! I could write 21 articles based on those points. Let me make a few quick points instead.
- Planning and preparation. If you want the best chance of quick success, take 15 minutes each day and an additional 4 hours each week to review results, make lists, THINK, and plan for the coming week. And make sure you have resumes that are attractive so people to call you back.
- Work hard and fast. Actually do what you plan. Make calls and contacts daily. It is amazing how often luck follows hard work.
- Go back again. You should be talking to your best prospects at least monthly. If you spend 15 minutes thinking and looking for a reason to call, you can usually come up with a helpful reason to call almost anyone.
- Work together. Share leads. Offer to critique other’s resumes. Suggest websites, books, and other job search ideas. A lot of people find the perfect job in the castoffs and contacts from someone else’s search. Go to someone else’s house and both of you make calls at the same time.
- Be polite. Just because they say “No” doesn’t mean they hate you. Say thank you and contact them again if it is a company you really want to join. Never burn bridges or “blow out the candle” with anyone.
Have a great Halloween, and an even better job search. Good luck finding that one pound candy bar!