Job search is just a ‘numbers-game’

Myth: The more jobs you apply for, the better your chances of getting that first job.

Reality: Remember, the purpose of  applying for a job is to get ‘The Interview”. You won’t get a job without first having an interview. Targeted approaches to your job search are the ones that will work. You will learn more and get better at your approach if you really understand the companies to which you are applying. Do not apply everywhere. The best strategy is to take a marketing approach to each job opportunity with lots of research about the company and a targeted cover letter. A customized resumé that shows your skills as they relate to the job’s requirements is the best way to secure an interview. Quality ahead of quantity works every time. Don’t look like everyone else. Stand out in your job search and show the employer you are serious, have done your homework and are worthy of an interview.

markewicken: Mark Wicken is a marketing professional with over 30 years of advertising, communications and strategic planning experience within the retail and packaged goods industries. He has been a senior member of agency management teams with both account and brand management responsibilities. His strengths have always been on innovative thinking, solid organization and strong interpersonal skills. Starting in the advertising agency industry, Mark held senior account management positions at several multinational agencies including Leo Burnett, Foster, Caledon, Vickers & Benson and Saffer Advertising, and has been responsible for the management of accounts like IBM, McDonald’s, Esso and General Motors. Mark moved from his agency roles to the Client side and held the position of Divisional Vice President of Marketing for Domino’s Pizza International and Director of Marketing for KFC, Hardee’s and Sbarro restaurants in the Middle East. In 2002 he established The Mark Wicken Group, a business specializing in executive search, training and consulting within the marketing, advertising and communications industries. In addition to executive search, Mark has devoted much of his lifetime to teaching, education and youth development. He is President of MusicFest Canada ‘The Largest Annual Music Festival in North America’ and has been an instructor at the International Academy of Design and The Toronto Film School since 1998. Mark graduated from The University of Toronto, took post-graduate studies at Northwestern University, and is married with two sons.