The Best Job Hunting Strategies for You
Searching for a new job is hard work. In fact, it can be the toughest job you’ll ever have. The key to job search success is to treat the entire process like a business.
To stand head and shoulders above the rest of the job-seeking crowd, it’s important to lay out an effective strategy. By defining what you want and need, you’re on your way to getting it. Jump-start your search with these helpful job-hunting strategies:
1. Know yourself
Begin your job search by making a thorough list of your interests, skills, accomplishments, experience, goals, and values. The key to a successful job search is to recognize what makes you a unique candidate, and to communicate this effectively to a prospective employer - both verbally and in writing.
2. Aim for the Right Target
Try to match your skills, interests, and values with the right career choice. For example, if one of your goals is to get a larger salary, don’t focus on career paths that are traditionally associated with lower earnings. Conduct research in various fields, and local companies within those fields. Learn about different businesses that interest you, and target those that are more likely to have open positions.
3. Be Assertive and Proactive
The old adage “Good things come to those who wait” does NOT apply to those in the market for a new job. You’ve got to go out there and make it happen. Don’t wait around for opportunity to come knocking on your door. While cold calling potential employers can be intimidating, it remains a powerful strategy. It’s important to get through the door before your competition does.
4. Do Some Sleuthing
One key approach is understanding the “hidden job market.” Many job openings exist only in the minds of directors, vice presidents, and other company executives, long before the job is actually advertised to the public. If you can present yourself as the perfect candidate at this early stage, an employer may snap you up without the need to look elsewhere.
5. Work the Network
Networking should be at the center of your job search strategy. Get the word out to friends, trusted colleagues, and even relatives that you are actively looking for a job and ask them to keep their eyes and ears open for any opportunities. Expand your own network by joining professional organisations, signing up for job search newsletters, contacting former professors and classmates, and participating in online discussion boards.
6. Get Professional Help
Employment agencies can be an excellent resource for job leads, and they come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. Some specialise in very specific occupational areas, and many will have exclusive arrangements with large companies. If you’re interested in the services of an agency, investigate it carefully. Determine what the agency will do for you and how much it will cost before making your decision.
7. Be Temporarily Flexible
Temporary jobs are a great way to learn skills, gain experience, and earn money while looking for a permanent position. They are also a way to prove your worth and be first in line when a full-time position opens up. For example, working as a consultant or independent contractor in a company can also eventually lead to steady, full-time employment.
8. Say It Clearly
When sending out résumés, make sure to catch prospective employers’ attention with a brief and concise cover letter that clearly spells out how your qualifications match the job requirements. Connect the dots for the reader and make it obvious why you’re the perfect candidate for the job.
9. Keep Careful Records
Keeping track of progress during your job search is important. Maintain a detailed record of all the jobs you have applied to, including communications, interviews, referrals, and follow-up actions. This will help you build a network of valuable contacts both for your current job search and any future ones.
10. Be Persistent
Job searching is difficult, and there are times when you will be discouraged. Just keep in mind that everyone has been through the same grind at one point. Try to keep a positive attitude and look at your job hunt as an exciting challenge.
Your perfect job is out there somewhere. Good luck!
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