Job hunting involves adopting certain techniques to make sure that you stand out from the rest of the competition. Incidentally, a recent Bloomberg report found that there were 4.6 million more vacancies than unemployed workers at the end of 2021, so Americans who are actively looking for work are set to find jobs relatively quickly if they take advantage of this.
To help you get started, here are five useful tips for a successful job hunt.
Comb Through Every Job Database
LinkedIn and Indeed are both great places to begin your search. However, 92% of companies are using general social media platforms, like Facebook and Twitter, to look for applicants. After all, in terms of reach, social media has the biggest market. As such, see if you can find a job posting group with posters that are near your area. If you’re targeting a specific company, you might also want to follow them on social media so you’ll get notified if they post any openings. Take note that you also have to keep your accounts professional and consistent across all platforms.
Fine-Tune Your Resume and Cover Letters
It’s important to adapt your resume and cover letter to each job you apply for. Study the job description and determine which of your skills will be most applicable to the necessary tasks, and only include the experiences and achievements that are relevant to the position. To make it easier for you, have an editable copy of your resume, and keep key sections the same. You should also ask a professional colleague or family member to proofread your resume and cover letter for objective advice.
Make Use of Networking and Referrals
Another great way to find new opportunities is to make use of networking and referrals. CNBC even advises to reach out to your school’s career office, any alumni organizations you’re a part of, or even friends and family. There are many job opportunities out there that aren’t posted on a company website. Sometimes, openings are filled in through staff referrals or through connections in a company. Make a list of all the people you know who might have knowledge or contacts in the field you want to work in and make your way from there.
Set-up Google Alerts
One foolproof way to gain an edge over your competitors is to have access to the latest and most relevant business intelligence. LHH recommends setting up Google Alerts to receive new company updates straight to your device, such as personnel changes, industry-specific information, and their recent direction and performance. You can use this in your job search to fine-tune your application or to determine the right contacts to approach for a position interview.
Hone Your Skills
Some people find it difficult to idly wait for responses to their emails and applications — might as well use this time to hone your skills in preparation for your new job. You can brush up on your typing skills with programs like KTouch, which are suitable for those who are applying for more typing-based jobs. You could also consider getting an internship or volunteering for an organization in your desired industry while applying for a job. This will not only expand your network but will also help you develop handy skills you can use in the future.
The search might take longer or shorter than expected; but with an open mind and determination, we’re sure you’ll find a job that’s best suited for you.
