Are you in the middle of a job search and feeling overwhelmed? Don't worry, you're not alone! It's common to feel stressed out when searching for a new job, but there are some steps you can take to make the process smoother and find a job quickly.
In a recent Linkedin poll, 74% of those who voted said they are actively looking for a job, this post is to help you through the job search and hopefully help you land something faster.
Step 1: Update your resume and cover letter
First impressions matter, and your resume and cover letter are often the first things employers see. Follow these 10 tips to make them stand out
Keep it concise: Limit your resume to one or two pages and use bullet points to break up long paragraphs.
Example: Instead of writing "I was responsible for managing a team of ten employees," try "Managed a team of ten employees."
Use clear headings: Use bold or larger font for section headings such as "Experience," "Education," and "Skills."
Example: Use "Experience" as a heading for your work history section.
Customise it for the job: Tailor your resume to the job you're applying for by highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
Example: If you're applying for a marketing position, highlight your marketing experience and skills.
Use keywords: Use keywords from the job listing to help your resume get past applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Example: If the job listing includes "Adobe Creative Suite," make sure to include that in your skills section if you have experience with it.
Use a professional font: Choose a clear, easy-to-read font such as Arial or Calibri.
Example: Avoid using a decorative font like Comic Sans.
Use bullet points: Use bullet points to break up long paragraphs and make your accomplishments stand out.
Example: Use bullet points to list your accomplishments at each job.
Use white space: Use white space to make your resume easy to read and navigate.
Example: Use margins and spacing to create a balanced look.
Include relevant links: If you have an online portfolio or relevant social media profiles, include links in your resume.
Example: If you're a graphic designer, include a link to your online portfolio.
Use active verbs: Use strong, active verbs to describe your accomplishments.
Example: Use "Managed," "Created," and "Developed" instead of "Was responsible for" or "Helped with."
Proofread carefully: Double-check your resume for spelling and grammar errors.
Example: Use spell check and have a friend or family member review your resume before submitting it.
83 Must-Know Resume Statistics - A comprehensive guide on building your resume
"A customized resume demonstrates your attention to detail, your ability to research and understand the company and its needs, and your commitment to finding the best fit for both you and the employer." - Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter, Master Resume Writer and Career Strategist.
If you want a second opinion, RecruitingSniper can help you perfect your resume and cover letter!
Step 2: Make a list of companies from job postings
It's important to know where to look for job postings, but it's equally important to keep track of the companies that are hiring. Here are some tips to create a comprehensive list of companies:
Make a comprehensive list of companies hiring, use the following tips to make the list
Use job search engines: Utilise popular job search engines such as Linkedin, Indeed, Glassdoor to find job postings. Make a list of companies hiring
Sign up for job alerts: Create job alerts on the above sites to receive email notifications when new job postings that match your criteria are added.
Check company websites: Check the websites of companies you are interested in working for to see if they have any job openings.
Utilise social media: Follow companies you are interested in on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook to see their job postings.
Check professional associations and communities: Check the websites of professional associations in your field to see if they have job postings or job boards.
Reach out to recruiters like RecruitingSniper
Step 3: Network, Network, Network
Networking is essential in a job search. Here are some tips to help you network effectively:
Utilise LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a powerful tool for job seekers to connect with recruiters and hiring managers. Make sure your profile is up-to-date and optimised for your desired job.
Join professional communities Joining a professional community related to your industry can provide opportunities to attend events, gain access to job boards, and connect with others in your field.
Get a referral: If you know someone who works for a company you're interested in, ask for a referral. Referrals can increase your chances of getting an interview.
Connect with alumni: Reach out to alumni from your college or university who work in your desired field. They may be able to provide valuable insights and connections.
Create a personal website: Create a personal website or online portfolio to showcase your work and connect with recruiters and hiring managers.
Use job search apps: Use job search apps like Blind, Fishbowl to connect with recruiters and hiring managers who are actively looking for candidates.
Connect with freelancers: Connect with freelancers or contractors in your field to learn about job opportunities and make connections.
Attend industry conferences and events: Attending events related to your desired industry is a great way to network with recruiters and hiring managers. Make sure to have your elevator pitch ready and bring plenty of business cards to hand out.
Attend hackathons: Attend hackathons and coding competitions to meet recruiters and hiring managers from technology companies.
Attend virtual career fairs: Attend virtual career fairs to connect with recruiters and hiring managers from the comfort of your home.
Follow up: After meeting with a recruiter or hiring manager, make sure to follow up with a thank you email or message. This can help keep you top of mind for future job opportunitie
"Your network is your net worth. In fact, 70% of all jobs are found through networking." - David Burkus, Author of "Friend of a Friend: Understanding the Hidden Networks
Step 4: Apply to relevant jobs
It's time to apply! Here are some tips to make your application stand out:
Tailor your resume: Customise your resume for each job application, highlighting relevant skills and experience.
Research the company: Research the company before applying to understand their culture, values, and mission.
Use keywords: Use relevant keywords from the job description in your resume and cover letter.
Address the hiring manager by name: Address the hiring manager by name in your cover letter to make it more personal.
Explain why you're interested: Explain why you're interested in the company and the position in your cover letter.
Highlight mutual connections: If you have mutual connections with someone at the company, mention them in your cover letter.
Add personal touches: Add personal touches, such as a summary or objective statement, to your resume or cover letter.
Showcase your personality: Showcase your personality in your cover letter and interview to help the hiring manager get to know you better.
Follow up: Follow up after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the position and the company.
How can RecruitingSniper help?
We help you with Interview preparation and Mock Interviews, with customised interview guides and templates
Step 5: Prepare for interviews
Research the interviewer: Research the interviewer on LinkedIn or other professional networks to learn more about their background and interests.
Use storytelling: Use storytelling to showcase your experience and skills in a memorable way, connecting your past successes to the job requirements.
Practice mindfulness: Practise mindfulness techniques to help you stay calm and focused during the interview.
Bring examples of your work: Bring examples of your work, such as a portfolio or project samples, to showcase your skills and experience.
Ask unique questions: Ask unique questions about the company's culture, values, or mission to show that you've done your research.
Use body language: Use positive body language, such as smiling and making eye contact, to show that you're engaged and interested in the conversation.
Highlight your soft skills: Highlight your soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, in addition to your technical skills, to show that you're a well-rounded candidate with a high Emotional Quotient
Show gratitude: Follow up with a thank-you note or email after the interview to show your gratitude and continued interest in the position.
Step 6: Follow up
After you've applied or interviewed, follow up. Thank the employer for considering you and expressing your interest in the job. This shows initiative and interest in the position.
Good Luck!
If you liked this content please share and follow us on Linkedin here
Have any questions, feedback or need additional support?
Please write to us on info@recruitingsniper.com and we will come back!