Job Search Secrets

Use Your Head to Get Your Foot in the Door: Job Search Secrets No One Else Will Tell You

Mackay, Harvey (author).

Feb. 2010. 352p. illus. Portfolio, hardcover, $25.95

This title is exactly what you’d expect from Swim with the Sharks without Being Eaten Alive (1988) author and astute businessman Mackay: short chapters; informative sidebars (“Quickies,” “Mackay’s Morals”)—and lots of them; and pithy writing. Here he expands his expertise to job hunting, beginning with the obvious fact that jobs may be at risk and then offering practical steps to avoid workplace obsolescence. Smart advice is conveyed in a variety of ways, from question-and-answer interviews with top headhunters and consultants to tales from his own personal stash of people who made good (e.g., Vinny Del Negro, who aspired to an NBA coaching position). Mackay’s three themes: networking (and relevant experience), determination and self-confidence, plus preparation. Although the content is not new, the way it’s presented is worth more than a cursory glance. A great prompt for those looking for jobs—and for anyone who works. Appended: Kurt Einstein’s 20 most revealing interviewing questions and answers; “The Mackay Lucky 13,” a list of life-changing books; and a University of Southern California MBA commencement speech from May 15, 2009.

— Barbara Jacobs

This review was first published May 3, 2010 at Booklist Online.

As author Harvey Mackay suggests, preparation is an important component of a successful job search.

Librarians have the resources and expertise to assist you every step of the way.  They can help you create a list of companies to target or aid with industry or specific company research to help you prepare for an important interview.

Here are some articles that provide insight about the many ways librarians can help you land a job.
 

Creating A Call List With ReferenceUSA
Christopher L. Walker, Training and Placement Specialist

How to Research Companies
by Karmen N.T. Crowther