Career Transition/Job Search Assistance

●    Job Search Strategy

To sell yourself effectively in a competitive job market, you need to be able to identify your value in the marketplace.  When you meet a potential employer, you need to be able to complete the statement, “You should hire me because I have the unique ability to ____________.”  In other words, you need to be able to think of yourself as a “brand”….what are the unique or special features and benefits of what you are selling to a potential hiring manager. This is sometimes referred to as your value proposition.

 Most of us find it challenging to express our value because it is difficult to view ourselves objectively.  Many people take their strengths for granted by thinking that “I am simply doing my job.” That is, they consider those important qualities to be “nothing special.”

By carefully analyzing your work history and other experiences, we can help you pinpoint your unique talents and strengths.

Once you articulate your value proposition,  we will collaborate on creating your marketing strategy: where, how, and to whom you will sell your capabilities for your next position.

●    Job Search Infrastructure

You will need to have certain documents ready before applying for a job. These include: references from previous employers, colleagues, or clients, and targeted, compelling résumés and cover letters. You can’t be successful until you have these in place.

We can help you to develop a strategy for obtaining references and creating the “foundation” materials you will need for your job search. While Delaware Valley Career Solutions is not a résumé preparation service, we can provide coaching and editing support as you develop your résumé and cover letter.

●    Job Search Skills

There are a number of skills involved in successfully landing your next job.  These include how to:

•	Research occupations, industries, companies and salaries
•	Network effectively to discover and create opportunities
•	Stay organized during your job search
•	Interview with impact
•	Negotiate a favorable compensation/benefits package
•	Manage your anxiety.
•	Respond to anxiety expressed by spouses, family members or friends during  your job search.
•	Stay active, focused and self-disciplined.

We will assist you in developing a plan to enhance any of these skills, working directly with you where appropriate.  In particular, learning how to network to uncover job opportunities and to prepare for an interview are critical skills to sharpen. For example, if you need to refresh your interviewing or networking skills, we can practice through role-playing and modeling.  We can also videotape and review these sessions with you.

●    Job Search Support

Searching for a job is a stressful undertaking for most people. You are putting yourself “on the line” and you must face the possibility of rejection each time you apply or interview. Job searches have been compared to marathons where emotional resilience is a key to success.

Dr. Gronsky’s experience as a psychologist can be extremely valuable in helping you to develop the emotional resources necessary to sustain yourself through the job search process.  For example, we can partner to work on how to:

•	Regroup and move forward after losing your job.
•	Rebuild your sense of self-worth after disappointing experiences.
•	Develop a support network.
•	Understand and manage the impact of the job search “roller coaster” on your emotions and energy level.
•	Cultivate and project a positive outlook.
•	Manage your anxiety.
•	Respond to anxiety expressed by spouses, family members or friends during  your job search.
•	Stay active, focused and self-disciplined.

Once you are active in your job search campaign, regularly scheduled contacts (weekly, biweekly, or—later on—monthly) can be invaluable in keeping you “on track.”

Return to Services