The answer is that 90% of job seekers look passively for work by applying to job postings; 9% of job seekers are actively searching for work by networking; and 1% of job seekers are making the right connections.

If you want to be part of the successful 1%, it might be time to join the “90 Day Job Challenge” that is being launched by the Centre for Education & Training, Employment Services in September. This annual “challenge” was created in 2012 to help job seekers get closer to the job market by using services offered at all of TCET’s six locations.

For example, if you are a job seeker who is seeking new motivation, you might want to attend a workshop offered by a guest speaker who specializes in inspiration and information. Some of the topics will be on how to improve your social networking skills and how to develop your brand by creating a positive business image.

In addition to guest speakers, unemployed job seekers who qualify for services with a career specialist will be coached for 90 days to help with employment preparation and career planning. As the workplace moves from an era of steady abundance, to a time of precarious employment, the support of a career coach can become more and more important.

Whether it is learning more about how to create a powerful LinkedIn profile summary, how to ace an interview, or how to target a cover letter and resume, career specialists will share best practices for developing job leads and landing employment opportunities.

Job seekers can also learn about career management techniques that can be used long after finding a job, so you can remain being part of the successful 1%. For example, have you ever thought about establishing a goal to eventually become a leader in your field?

If you have a goal, do whatever it takes to become a leader in that subject. Whether this means attending conferences, reading books, participating in volunteer work or involving yourself in free online professional development, learn as much as possible. Even if you don’t end up being the #1 person in your field, striving toward your goal can give you a focused and clear direction that can be an excellent source of encouragement as you carry on in your career.

Another useful job search and career planning method is to learn how to create more time. Time management is one of the skills that all employers look for, so reshape this area by reviewing the time you put into your job search. For example, instead of feeling overwhelmed by your job search or complaining that you don’t have enough time in the day, realize that you can always make more time.

Start by using a “Job Search Tracking Log” to determine what tasks are truly important and which ones are insignificant. Ask yourself:

• Am I spending too much time searching job postings?
• Am I spending too little time researching company websites?
• How much time am I putting into networking with the right people?
• What part of the “90-9-1” Job Search Rule am I in?

If you want to find out more about how to become part of the “90 Day Job Challenge” contact the Centre for Education & Training Employment Services (www.tcet.com). Challenge yourself to discuss your career planning and job search ideas with specialists who want to help you achieve career success.

Lisa Trudel is a career specialist and can be contacted at: ltrudel@tcet.com We value your opinion. Please let us know what you think about this column. Send comments to learningcurves@hotmail.com.