Top Three Tips - Spend Money on These

Job Search Budget – Top Three Things to Spend Money On

If you are job hunting, you already know that money is tight. Real tight. The days of hanging out with the guys/girls and having a few drinks+ are long gone. So is dry cleaning, right? When you have a regular, decent paycheck coming in, things like car washes, DVD's, lattes and manicures (Ok those are my faves!) are no problem. But when money is scarce, you have to make cuts and choices. Obviously, shelter and food are the most important. After that, well, you no doubt have devised a sliding scale of importance for where your money goes.

But a job search cost money too. And they are a lot of little costs that add up. For instance, coffee with networking partners, parking for interviews, new shoes and maybe a suit, printing resumes and business cards, perhaps classes to brush up your skills, professional resume writers and coaches, training seminars, and on and on. Remember to consult your tax preparer by the way, as some things are deductible. So, what should you spend your money on? Here are three fairly inexpensive tips:

1. Professional Headshots

I know, some other career advisers will dissent with this one, but I used to be a hiring manager and a recruiter, so I can attest to the damage a poor quality headshot can do. Nothing says “I don't get” faster than a cheesy headshot on a Linked In profile. I would always check the LI profile for any resumes that I pulled. If the candidate had a unprofessional headshot, I passed. Spending a little here goes a long way.

2. Professional Resume

This may come as surprise to many, but most people are not that great at writing their own resume. Sorry! With the competition as fierce as it is today, a “DIY” resume will do you much more harm than good. I am not blatantly self promoting here, but offering you REAL advice. There are many services available, including free ones, so please, have a pro write your resume!

3. A New Suit

For interviewing and networking, a professional suit is a must (depending on your industry of course, but you cannot go wrong dressed up). From my experience, I typically made a hiring decision within a few minutes of meeting a candidate. Part of my decision was based on the presentation. I figured if the candidate took the time to look their best, then this was important to them. It is odd that people work on that level, but we do.

 

These three tips revolve around presentation. Part of job hunting – a very large part – is marketing. And marketing is about image. One of the best things to do is present a well put together image – on paper, online, and in person. You have the skills and talent, and spending a little on the right things will vastly improve your chances of getting an offer!

About the Author: Kristi Enigl is a Career & Job Search Consultant who brings over 20 years of Hiring, HR Management and Executive Recruiting across a broad spectrum of industries to her professional practice. She helps professionals identify, create, and market their career brand so they reach their career goals – FAST. Email your resume to coachkristi@kristienigl.com for a complimentary, professional evaluation.