Conducting a job search these days can seem overwhelming and complicated, particularly if it’s been a while since you’ve looked for a position. Let’s look at nine ways that can help move your job search forward for quicker results.
- Network and make strategic connections online and offline. Determine who can make introductions for you at companies of interest. Don’t limit yourself by applying only to advertised opportunities. Many companies look at their internal resources before posting a job, and a number of them offer employees referral bonuses.
- Think through all aspects of your ideal job. Afterall, if you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there. Organize your thoughts to help decide important matters like where you want to work, what you want to do, and if you have a commute how long should it take.
- Make sure your career documents are written to target the position of interest. Sending generic resumes and cover letters will only prolong your job search. One resume will not fit all situations!
- Focus on high-value activities like identifying and researching companies where you’d like to work. Don’t confuse activity with action. It’s going to take more than just blindly applying on online job boards.
- Try a different approach if your job search isn’t producing results. Are you sending out lots of resumes without generating interviews? Maybe it’s time for a fresh set of eyes to review your documents. If interviews aren’t producing job offers, perhaps a career coach can help.
- Be patient. A seasoned professional’s job search usually takes longer than a recent college graduate’s search. Don’t be discouraged if the interview process is slow or the job offer takes days or even weeks.
- Make it a reasonable priority. Be willing to invest the time to conduct a successful job search and set aside sufficient time to prepare your resume(s), apply for positions, and follow up. However, balance these tasks with other areas of your life that also need your time and attention.
- Know when it’s time to bring in a specialist. Just like most people shouldn’t do their taxes if they want to obtain optimal results, most job seekers shouldn’t write their resume if they want to attract and retain the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager.
- Acknowledge when people help you during your job search. You never know when you might need their help again, so be sure to thank those who assist you in any way.
Today’s job search requires a proactive approach that includes a strategy and action plan to help you achieve your career goals. For positive results, you must be willing to put in the time and effort. Sometimes this means stepping outside of your comfort zone.
Contact me if you want assistance in developing an approach that will help catapult you toward achieving your job search or career goals.
Posted in Job Search
