10 Reasons You Should Regularly Read A Job Search Blog

[Tim Tyrell-Smith]

Now, coming from a guy who regularly writes a job search blog, you might find this post a bit self-serving. And, if I'm honest, you're probably right. I would love it if you would regularly read this blog. In fact, there are two very easy ways to make it effortless: via e-mail or RSS feed sign-ups on the sidebar, stage right.

You might also be concerned about my intentions. "He's probably trying to increase his traffic." Got me again. I am.

But where you may not have me is in my purpose. If you look around the blog, you'll notice something. Figure it out? No banner ads. Nope. None.

Now, before I get all high and mighty on you, there have been ads here before. Early on I tested them. But I have removed them all and I think the blog looks a lot better. Cleaner. While I still have some ads on the website, those will be gone too. As soon as a new re-design and upgrade is ready to go.

So, back to the purpose. My purpose here is to give back. To the community that helped me during my job search back in late 2007. For 5 months I toiled just like you. But perhaps unlike you, I kept notes. I kept notes on every aspect. I also found unique ways (analogies) to think through my strategy. And I built one. And now I'm sharing it all with you. For FREE.

So, since that is all out of the way, shall we get back to the 10 reasons?

1. You Get New Ideas

When I first started to write Spin Strategy™ my raw material was my ideas. Not having formal training as a career coach or a professional resume writer, I used my experiences as a hiring manager, job seeker and marketer. I've been an idea guy since birth and love finding new ways to get a thought across to people. So, why do you need ideas? Because life in job search can get monotonous. And new ideas can put some pep back in your engine at just the right time.

2. You Meet A Friend

Can you really make friends with a blogger? Aren't they reclusive people who abhor shaving and avoid most in-person or phone contact? Gosh, I don't know! But I'll tell you that's not me. Ask the people on the Spin Strategy Linkedin Group who send me a note. To my own peril (lack of sleep), I get back to everyone and see how/if I can help. So, yes, if you need a friend on some days when things aren't where you want them, send me a note. Or a tweet.

3. You Learn New Tricks

Whether you are new to job search or an old pro, you have to be open to the new way of doing things. And, in addition to new ideas, I like to share quick tips and tricks from time to time. Don't believe me? Click here.

4. You Build Confidence

This particular blog is about the strategy and psychology of successful job search. Strategy is really important. A positive psychology (aka confidence) is critical. How? If your strategy gets you the interview but your confidence keeps you from getting the offer, you'll know. You build confidence by knowing that you are prepared for every possible scenario. And by learning how to believe in yourself.

5. You Get Entertained

I try to write this blog in a way that feels less like a self-help book and more like a fun guided tour. I'm inspired by Steve Martin, Chevy Chase and Monty Python if that helps you at all. You see, while job search can be painful, frustrating and heart-breaking it can also be a great time of reflection on what really matters in life. In between networking and interviewing, you have a unique opportunity to live, hang out with your kids and explore your passions.

6. You Avoid Simple Mistakes

We've all made them at some point. In truth, there is an etiquette in the job search world. There are ways you can strain or break a networking relationship or ways that you can over-communicate with a company. Regularly reading a blog can help you catch a mistake before it is made. Sound good? Try this post on for size.

7. You Meet New People

Really? Yes. But how, you say. Well, by commenting on a blog when the mood strikes. Other regular readers see your comments and can comment back to you or build on your idea. Do this long enough and you've found a friend. Someone who thinks like you do. Also, a lot of blogs have companion groups on Linkedin, Yahoo or a companion website. Once a member there, it is really easy to build relationships and, before you know it, you are networking.

8. You Get Encouragement

On Spin Strategy, encouragement comes in two forms. First there is the traditional sort. Feels good and warms your heart. The second part can be more blunt and unsettling. That is the sort which acts as a wake up call. I've found that the friendly encouragement will not jolt you out of a bad pattern. Here, in my experience, only a two by four (to the side of the forehead) will do. Some things cannot be said gently.

9. You Can Ask Questions

Here on the blog as well as on the Linkedin group, questions are encouraged. And most all get answered. As a later blog post, a return comment or via a personal e-mail. Unlike a big networking event or seminar where you are forced to stand up and ask in front of "everyone", on a blog you can be somewhat anonymous. And you get the benefit of the blogger's experience as well as all the other visitors whose experiences may benefit you as well.

10. You Gain Perspective

Let's face it. Some days, when looking for work, things can seem bleak. There are days when nothing happens. No one calls and no one writes. It may seem like you are the only one not getting interviews. Not true. But you'll only realize that when you hear it from other job seekers. So, to avoid living inside your own little world, open up the curtains and let the sun in. Sun = blog in case I lost you there.

Most of us writing job search blogs work very hard and sleep very little in our quest to bring you closer to your next great role. The reward is in hearing your feedback and, especially, in hearing that something we wrote or built for you helped make something happen. A new contact. A new interview. A job offer with a company you've been targeting.

In the end, your decision to become a regular blog reader here or on one of the many wonderful job search blogs out there is up to you. You may decide to pick and choose among ten different blogs or you may choose just one.

But, can I tell you a secret? I hope you choose mine.

[Tim Tyrell-Smith]

Agree and thanks Alvah!

[Alvah Parker]

Its a lonely world when you are out of work. For the introvert it can be an isolating experience. Blogs keep people in contact with one another. Thanks for a very good list!

[Tim Tyrell-Smith]

@Karen - I couldn't agree more. Thanks for your thoughts!

@Cw - using "the power of small" is a good way to think about it. Yes!

[CwComment]

Blogs are key! They really help you use the power of small in your job search- every little contact, piece of knowledge and lead you pick up is one step closer to finding your next gig!

[Karen D. Swim]

Tim, great post and reminder for everyone. The job search process is made easier when you have support. This community is an excellent place for questions, resources and lift to the spirits. For those of us who serve the job seeker market, I think it's safe to say while it's our job it is also our passion. Yes, we want people to utilize our services but most importantly we want to get people working in jobs they love!