The Harvard Business School Guide for Finding Your Next Job

Citation

Cassell, K.A. and Mercado, M.I. (2000), "The Harvard Business School Guide for Finding Your Next Job", The Bottom Line, Vol. 13 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/bl.2000.17013bae.003

The Harvard Business School Guide for Finding Your Next Job

Gardella, R.S.Harvard Business School PressCambridge, MA2000

Keywords Employment, Career planning, Career guidance

After considerable experience as a consultant, job search counselor and placement specialist, the author, presently the Assistant Director of Alumni Career Services at Harvard Business School, offers a road map for job search, planning and execution. Because the business world is transforming so rapidly, it has unleashed forces that are changing not only the dynamics of the workplace, but also the employer/employee contract. The lack of job security as a result of consolidation, globalization, the quest for a balanced life means that more managers are looking for new jobs more often. Yet, developing and managing an effective job search is daunting even for the most experienced professionals. It is far more difficult for the neophyte.

This guide encompasses all the key elements of the job search process, from creating a resume to dealing with the emotional side of job loss. The author uses references effectively to keep the job searcher motivated and recommends various search and negotiating strategies. Because it is clear to the author that the job seeker's time is valuable, he discusses ideas such as allocating time effectively and focusing on job search activities that are more likely to be successful. How does Gardella accomplish his purpose? He actually discusses the process of job seeking step by step. For example, in chapter 1, "Getting started", he begins with a discussion of what is needed to prepare for the job search. Within this discussion, he directs the reader to inventory their skills, knowledge, interests, experiences and job and non-work preferences. This inventory is designed to help the hiring manager solve his/her specific problem by hiring you. He follows this discussion with a list of books, which will give you additional information.

We found this book interesting in that it dares to discuss openly the emotional aspects of job loss and the fact that one should not rush into a job search before you are prepared. He gives suggestions concerning how to deal with negative feelings both about yourself and your former employer. He talks about scheduling for two specified hours worry time in which to vent your anger, fear, frustrations and other emotions. And he raises the age-old question of what are you going to tell people? The author urges to be as positive as possible about your former employer, as you look for new employment. All of the chapters in the book discuss the kinds of relevant issues and problems that are important to the job seeker. And each chapter contains references and other sources pertinent to the topic.

Although we did not cover every individual chapter here, we are nevertheless impressed with this book. We were impressed with the fact that this book is written with such perception and knowledge of the difficulties facing job seekers even in a seller's economy. In addition, as you read this book one is struck by the understanding of the author toward the problems faced by the job seeker as he/she confronts the process and undergoes it. Anyone of any age group, gender, racial and ethnic group will find this book a decided asset. Because of its straightforwardness in raising job search related questions and the clear and open discussions pertaining to this process, we would recommend this book. Not only for the job searcher, but also for the educator and academic, who is preparing individuals to find a fulfilling employment situation.