How to Choose the Job, Part 1 Print E-mail


How would it feel to know that 20, 100, or even more companies are a great match for your talents and experience and that with just a little bit of research, you could identify these companies and begin to connect with them to uncover great job opportunities? If this sounds good to you, read on to find out how to locate and learn about a wealth of potential employers just right for your career goals.

In my work, I've had thousands of conversations similar to this one:

Job Searcher: "There are just no jobs out there that fit my interests and skills. It's very discouraging."

Me: "How have you been job searching?"

Job Searcher: "I watch the newspaper ads, of course. And there are a number of Internet job sites that I check regularly."

Me: "Do you have a target list of 20-100 employers that would be likely to hire someone with your background, and who you'd be interested in working for?"

Job Searcher: "Weeeeeelll, I have a list of places where I've sent my resume. Is that the same thing?"

Me: "Not exactly. Creating a target list would most likely be an effective, confidence-building activity for you. It would help you find many more opportunities that are a good fit for your interests and skills. Want to learn more?"

Job Searcher: "Sure, especially if it will lead to more good jobs for me!"

If this sounds a little like a conversation you and I might have if we were talking, read on to learn more about target lists and how they can benefit your job search.

Brainstorm What Types of Organizations Match Your Job Search Focus

Now we're going to use that focus to your best advantage. To begin, write your focus information below:

I am searching for a position where I will potentially serve in these roles:
1)______________ 2)_________________3)_______________
.. .possibly in these industries:
1)______________ 2)_________________3)_______________

Now, to brainstorm your target list of potential employers, we're going to focus primarily on the industries you just listed. Let's say, for example, that you have identified the following job search focus roles and industries:


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