Issue 27(1)
Job
Searching Fast and Easy.
(2006). J. Michael
Farr. Toronto, ON: Thomson Delmar Learning, 154 pp. Price $15.95.
ISBN # 1418042722.
Review
By: Ellyn Aidman
Academic
Advisor, Advising First
Florida
State
University
While
many documents have been published in regards to career search
strategies, J. Michael Farr's book provides simple strategies
for job seekers without overwhelming them. Farr argues that
an effective job search consists of high quantity and quality
job interviews, a large referral network, and a strong sense
of motivation and self.
Farr
proposes seven steps to enhance a job search. He provides tips
for strong resumes, interviews and job search methods. One of
the most useful components of the book is a section devoted
to self reflection. A set of worksheets is included that challenge
readers to list their goals, skills and ideal jobs. This technique
can also be utilized to organize thoughts during a job interview.
Additionally, an innovative method of job networking is introduced
through patented JIST cards. The author suggests that creating
personalized index cards that include employment objectives
and skills will make an impression on potential employers.
Although
Farr proposes useful methods to conduct a job search, readers
may find that his suggestions lack depth. Strong interviews
are listed as one of the most fundamental ways to get a better
job; however, the chapter on this vital skill leaves much to
the imagination. Perhaps this corresponds with the theme of
a fast and easy job search as the title suggests; while reading
the book is fast and easy the job search experience itself may
not prove so. Thus this book might be more useful as supplementary
material rather than as a sole resource for job searchers.
The
author does not directly relate the topic to academic advising.
However, the topics of goal setting and self reflection, both
included in this text, should be regularly a part of the advising
session. In fact, the academic advising Web site for the University
of Central Missouri lists goal setting has one of the main objectives
of advising.
This
reference book is appropriate for those new to the job market
or for job seekers who are looking for quick advice to improve
their job acquisition skills. Academic advisors will find that
this text provides appropriate questions to ask students seeking
to define their academic or career goals.
Reference
UCM
Academic Advising Philosophy Statement. (2006). University of
Central Missouri. Retrieved October 26, 2006 from http://www.cmsu.edu/x18823.xml
.
