Finding a new job can be a challenging and frustrating experience; however you can make it easier for yourself when you use proactive strategies. The below tips are applicable for all job seekers, both new to the job market and those with many years’ experience.
Here are some of my best tips for finding a new job at any career level.
1. Be clear and know what you want. Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses and the type of work that you enjoy doing. What do you want in a job?
2. Research the organisations that you are targeting. This will help you to get a feel for the organisation’s culture, what you are likely to be paid and if they are the right fit for you.
3. Tailor your resume to each position. By doing this, the recruiter or hr manager will know straight away that you have the skills they are looking for. Remember that your CV is one of the most critical tools for when it comes to job searching.
4. Have an online career profile. By having a career profile like on LinkedIn, you are showcasing your experience, knowledge, and passion online where employers and recruiters search the web for potential employees. Maybe it’s time to get your LinkedIn profile professionally revamped?
5. Be organised. Have a system that works for you, with organising your job searching. Even just a simple spreadsheet to keep track of the positions that you have applied for.
6. Utilise your network of contacts. People you know may want to help you in finding a job or may know that a position is currently available at their workplace and could refer you to their HR manager.
7. Don’t just apply online. Limiting yourself to only online could make the process take longer. Contact companies directly via cold calling or recruiters to let them know you are looking for work, or even leave your resume in their letterbox.
8. Have daily job-related goals to reach. By having a daily goal to achieve, this will help you to stay focused and motivated with finding a job.
9. Prepare for all your job interviews. Develop responses for common interview questions and practice them with a friend or interview coach. The more prepared you are, the more comfortable and confident you will be. Client Centric offer interview skills coaching via face to face or Zoom/Skype.
10. Email thank you messages to all interviewers after the interview. A brief email of thanks highlighting your keen interest and fit with the role and employer is a great way to help make you stand out from the majority.
By Matthew Coppola, Client Centric Executive Employment Solutions