Career Channel

With all of the career resources out there, on the internet, magazines, books, and in other places, one would think that there would be a career-related T.V. channel. Not so…at least not that I’m aware of. There’s a “Fine Living Channel” and an “Ion” channel that both offer helpful life tips. But no career channel. Perhaps Careerbuilder or monster could start one.

This is how I could see it:

-Biographical vignettes of interesting careers done through documentary portraits of people doing a certain job. I.e. “Mindy Long: A Day in the Life of a U.S.D.A. Produce Inspector!”
-Short 1-5 minute “pods” between programs and commercials, that list fun facts, myths, and pay rates for jobs, as well as new and interesting job titles and job search tips.
-Game shows, contests, and quizzes related to interviewing and proper workplace etiquette
-Sketch comedies or stand-up comedies about the job search process
-PBS-style educational shows about how to get into college, and/or grad school
-Reality shows showing the real life of the unemployed…or on how the rich and famous got their jobs…or on rich, famous, or interesting jobs themselves (e.g. “Dirty Jobs”!)
-Interactive call-in shows or talk shows where the audience, viewers, and special guests can all share their experiences.
-Lifestyle tips for saving and making more money
-Commercials from career-related agencies and the recruiting departments of large companies.

What do you think?

In the absence of said career-related channel, here are a couple of random tips for all you jobseekers to get your creative juices flowing.

1) Work the magazines. In today's digital world, it can seem that the internet is the end-all be-all resource for finding a job. True, the internet is an infinite treasure trove of information. But, not only can all that information be repetitive and overwhelming over time, the accuracy is not always guaranteed. Case in point: trying to post your resume on the internet. It's not only me who gets nothing but unrelated sales solicitations when I post my resume. Everybody already knows that it's important to work your friend network face-to-face, make new contacts in person, etc. But a little known strategy is to pick up a few magazines in your chosen field, and comb the ads and articles for ideas and links to people you might want to work for. (You can also comb the internet for people and companies to cold-call, too).

It's a toss-up as to whether phoning or emailing or writing works best, since it's absurdly easy and tempting for people just to ignore a cold email/letter than to answer it...but also it's just as easy for them to write back. Sometimes people hate to be bothered by phone, but it can be easier and faster to get instant gratification and pull information out of them that way. Try to find the right person to talk to...not just the harried and grumpy receptionist. It's your "call". I've cold-emailed dozens of people and have gotten three interviews that way. "Low results," you might say. But that's a better success rate than answering job postings online!

Finally, always remember the magic words: ask your new contact person that you meet if they "know anyone else who might be hiring." Seems to work better in the less-in-demand industries...for example, maybe in the neon-sign making but NOT in entertainment. Many people in entertainment get piles of resumes every year, and they don't give a hoot if you need help.

2) Join a group. Whether it's an in-person unemployment support group, or a global job-email list dealing with Corporate Social Responsiblity, this is another easy, no-brainer, low-maintenance way to expand your network.