A fortunate few never actually look for jobs: they are recommended by colleagues or recruited by former co-workers. For the rest of us, here’s a toolbox of best practices to make job-hunting easier and more productive.
Personal Branding is Part of the Process
- DO have a recently-updated resume. Have it reviewed and reworked by an expert.
- DO have a recently-updated LinkedIn profile with a clear, professional-looking headshot.
- DO make sure the dates and titles on your LinkedIn profile match your resume.
- DO ask for recommendations from those who know you and your work well.
Online applications are changing.
Let’s say you are a pharmacist and you spotted a LinkedIn job posting that looked like a perfect next role, but there’s a catch – you need your LinkedIn profile updated. Forbes wrote that more and more companies are asking to include a link to LinkedIn profiles. It is wise that before you start applying for an online job posting, your own profile should be updated too.
Where to Begin Your Search
- DO pick 5-10 companies you admire and for whom you think you’d like to work.
- DO your research online on each company, find a common connection, and ask for an introduction. LinkedIn is a great resource for this.
- DO invite people in these companies for a quick cup of coffee near their office. Say something like, “I’d love to hear what you like about working at X. Can I buy you a quick cup of coffee?”
- DO ask people you trust for a recommended recruiter who can help you.
Networking for Your Job Search
- DO let friends and family know you’re looking for a new job.
- DO attend Meetups in your field of expertise.
- DO look for and join LinkedIn groups in your profession.
- DO expand your personal network by taking part in volunteer activities. Make sure to choose a cause that you truly care about.
How to Use Company Websites
- DON’T rely only on applying to jobs online unless your skills are in high demand.
- DON’T regurgitate your entire resume into your cover letter if you’re using one. Keep it simple.
- DO try to find an advocate inside the company as well as applying online.
- DO tailor your resume to the job, highlighting the most important skills.
New to the search.
A jobseeker or maybe a new graduate may be searching for better employment. The perfect fit to get the right connection may be to check job boards online, especially for those who are looking in the finance field. Right now, this is a booming industry with an array of jobs for job seekers. Finance Jobs wrote that it helps if seekers explore their options to get the job that fits their skills.
Stay the Course
- DO look for a job before you need one. 411 is easier than 911.
- DON’T get impatient. Depending on your salary, it can take 6-10 months to find the next right position.
- DO take consistent action so you feel empowered.
- DO take good care of yourself physically and emotionally.
Looking for the right job is tough, but it gets better.
Once you’ve dealt with a couple of bumps while job hunting, you will eventually reach your goal of finding that next job. Though it doesn’t stop there. Beginning a job, whether you are new to the field or not, still takes adjustments. Pitfalls are intimidating in a new environment, says Psychology Jobs. Remember this: the velocity of your search should be the same as when you have a job.
Adding Velocity to Your Search
- DO find ways to help others along the way.
- DO assume that things are working out for the best, keeping a positive outlook.
- DO stay curious and open-minded. That job that doesn’t seem to be a fit could end up being the best one in your career.
- DON’T allow yourself to become bitter, angry, or desperate. These attitudes are a repellent, and people pick up on them, even when they can’t pinpoint what it is about you that is off-putting.
Your job search can be a trial, or it can be an interesting and exhilarating adventure. By deciding to take the long view, asking for help along the way, and refining your job-hunting skills, you’ll be giving it the attention it deserves. Happily, your results will reflect this.
Post written by Katherine Davis for ProfessionalResumeServices.com