The job-hunting landscape can often seem like a jungle. No matter what industry you’re in, the competition is extreme, and the expectations and discernment of employers are very high. That said, the competition and pickiness of employers can work in your favor.
Competing with more applicants gives you a golden opportunity to stand out by being prepared. And this, of course, will play right into the hands of those eagle-eyed employers!
The most crucial aspect here is to do your homework, so we’ve put together six quick job-hunting tips to help you get started! Let’s take a closer look.
1. Define Your Direction
Your actions must support the direction you choose when applying for a job. Knowing precisely what you are looking for will save time and energy when searching on job boards and LinkedIn.
Take some time to consider your professional branding statement to determine what type of job you want. Character includes beliefs, interests, strengths, educational background, experience, and personality type.
2. Create a Riveting Resume
When creating a good resume, there are several factors to consider. Choosing a template for your resume is the best place to start. After that, decide what content you’d like to include in your resume. There are a few that every resume should include:
- Contact details
- Personal statement
- Vocational experience
- Educational background
- Special skills and fields
The following are recommended too:
- Hobbies, pastimes, and general interests
- Specific campaigns and projects
- Volunteer work and charitable endeavors
3. Tailor Your Resume
In a job search, your resume remains the essential tool. Unfortunately, jobseekers often send the same resume to different openings because resumes are packed with responsibilities instead of tangible accomplishments.
If you want to find a new job, you should have an achievement-oriented resume containing quantifiable accomplishments relevant to the job you seek.
Tailor-make or tweak your existing resume to make it more attractive to the specific jobs you are applying for to ensure the best possible chance of a callback.
4. Get LinkedIn
The way we experience the world has been transformed by social media and the business world is no exception. LinkedIn is a powerful business social media site and job-hunting tool. Not only does it streamline the search for new jobs, but employers rely on it to identify great candidates.
LinkedIn is an essential part of any job hunt and can be used to your advantage if you know how to navigate it well. Lean on the network to identify new opportunities, research prospective employers, and network with others in your industry for a leg up on your job search.
5. Make Use of ATS Keywords
There are many challenges to making your CV stand out, even though recruiters may only look at it for a short time. And Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) play a vital role here.
Your application may not even be noticed if it doesn’t contain specific search terms (99% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS). A keyword is a specific phrase or word employers identify as a requirement for a position in an applicant tracking system.
Be sure to consider these factors when tailoring your application to each job. Maintain a straightforward CV format by matching keywords and job titles from the job listing.
6. Never Stop Networking
The importance of networking when looking for a new job cannot be overstated. Often, employees become aware of new job openings and can refer you to the recruiter.
Moreover, workers can help you prepare for an interview by providing insight into the company culture. Meeting potential employers is one of many benefits of networking. Additionally, you’ll be able to network with other industry professionals.
Meet new people and learn about recent trends by attending relevant events, trade shows, and conferences. Make sure you circulate your resume as well.
These six tips will help you lay the foundation for a successful job hunt. Consistency, discipline, and stepping outside of your comfort zone are all keys to success.