Fear of appearing cheeky
If you've taken the time to build up relationships, it's not inappropriate to ask for favours, such as an introduction to someone in your target company. Most people are happy to help if they receive a polite email asking for information or advice. A well-researched speculative application (centred on how you can bring value to an organisation) can also pay off.
In a live Q&A on graduate survival, one poster asked how to avoid tipping the balance from sounding enthusiastic to appearing "downright cheeky".
Martin Edmondson replied:
"Use LinkedIn to establish the key people in the organisation, and with a very small firm go straight to the MD/CEO. Once you've established your pitch, call them up, usually around 5pm to 7pm when they're less likely to have a PA around screening calls. Explain why you're interested in them in particular and explain your reason for calling. You may get hung up on sometimes, but others will be impressed by your proactivity."
Follow up on written, speculative applications, as this gives you the opportunity to learn more about the organisation, or even ask for advice on who else to approach.
Fear of the unknown
Don't get caught in the rut of using only one, familiar job-search method.
For best results, use a variety of approaches. Move out of your comfort zone, and try something new. Find ways of getting known to the hiring manager – either through networking or through personal referral. If the idea of networking leaves you cold, remember that it's less about handing out your business cards, and more about starting conversations and asking questions. The more you practise, the easier it gets.
Don't be daunted by technology. For example, the Guardian's recent #twitterjobchallenge has allowed job-seekers to make contacts, and share useful advice.
Fear of not being perfect
Resist the temptation to spend all your time endlessly tweaking your CV.
Look at the bigger picture rather than obsessing over getting every detail just right. For instance, don't wait until you've completed a skills-building course before you apply for a job.
Fear of looking greedy
Reluctance to talk about money is often rooted in two main fears: that if you go in too high you'll rule yourself out of consideration; and that by talking about money, you appear more interested in that aspect than you are in the job or the company.
But the salary discussion is one you must have. Research from the US shows that women (in particular) who shy away from salary negotiation, leave thousands on the table over the course of their careers.
Ideally the employer will be the first to mention salary. But find out the going rate for a similar role in your industry. That way, if you're put on the spot, you can give an appropriate range.
Companies may have some flexibility in their pay structures, and it's worth asking if more is available – especially if the salary quoted is under market rate.
Fear of being out of your league
Comb through job descriptions to check you meet most (if not all) requirements. All experience counts (whether paid or unpaid, voluntary and part-time) so present yourself confidently for a role you know you could do well. If you're missing something from the candidate profile, find something else that compensates.
In the live Q&A on getting into PR, Jonathan Lomax advises "The vicious circle of needing experience before getting a role, but not being able to get a role without it, isn't unique to PR. Dazzle with your approach, explaining why your other skills more than make up for what may be lacking, and you may be pleasantly surprised."
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