That’s not a typo. I’m not talking about writing a job description. I’m talking about you writing a job wanted description. I’m sure you already have a resume, cover letter and business cards to pass out but here’s a thought - why not create a job wanted description that tells the hiring manager or company exactly who you are, what you do well and what you’re looking for. Let’s discuss how this would differ from a resume.

What are you trying to accomplish? Anyone who reads your job wanted description should know immediately what your perfect job looks like. When they read this they should know what you do (and have done) well and how you will succeed in this job. There should be no ambiguity. In this case, you are going to be very specific about your expertise.

What should you include in the job wanted description?

Your ideal job title should be the role that you’ve done and done well.

A good summary of what you would like to do. A couple of points here will do. This is key because you want to help them understand what areas you are focusing on. Who you want to report to. Responsibilities you’d like to have. Where you would fit in the organization.

Background information as to why you are in the market and looking. Paint a positive picture of the circumstances that have led to your unemployment. This is not the time to be negative or bash a previous employer.

The job responsibilities section is where you get into specific details. Highlight what you are looking for in an organization - motivations, team size, key points that will increase the likelihood that you will succeed. Describe specific job experiences.

This description is to be used in conjunction with a resume and cover letter. The resume is a short introduction that tailors your background to a specific requirement. The cover letter is a summary of that expertise; again hopefully tailored to a specific job lead. The job wanted description helps an employer understand who you are and what your motivations are. This is not tailored to a specific job but focuses more on you the individual - This is who I am and what I’m looking for. Let’s use this as a starting point to see why I may, or may not, be a fit for your job. Unconventional, yes. But if finding a job were easy, everyone would be employed. If you’re not getting the results you want from your job search, you need to switch it up. Who knows, it just might work…