What can be learned during a long job search.

Long job searches can be tough on the job seeker, I am sure if you are in that situation you don't need me to tell you that. Also each industry brings its own set of unique circumstances, even before we begin to analyze each persons unique situation. All that being said, I think that the advice of this librarian can be helpful for most job seekers in a long search (think 12 months or longer.)

If your job search has been too long (which is a totally personal decision) you may need to start thinking about a career change. This recent article on creating resumes for a career change may be helpful.  Also you may want to investigate my posts on employment trends, especially the recent post about thinking like a free agent.

• Tap your network and learn about different career paths you might explore.
• Once you have some ideas research these paths (try this post for a good starting point.)
• Generate questions you have about these options.
• Try to arrange informational interviews with people in your network (or from outside) to learn the answers to these questions.
• Think about volunteering to gain some experience in the new career path.
• Look to expand your network towards this new path.
• Look at LinkedIn groups that you might join to hear the perspective of experts in the area.
• Follow people on Twitter, Google+ or other social networks that allow to learn from/observe these experts.
• Once you feel comfortable join in on these conversations. This becomes part of your social resume.
• Remember to critically examine your skills and experience to identify areas that will apply to jobs in your new/desired field.
•  When performing this examination try a separate sheet (file) for each job (and possibly each major area of each job...) and begin to list in detail everything involved: skills, accomplishments, challenges.
• These lists will help you identify areas to highlight in a resume/cover letter for a job for which you have less experience, but feel that you have the right skills to succeed.

Above all keep the chin up and good luck.