Job Search Advice
The job-hunting process can be challenging, and at times, even a bit intimidating, but with the right preparation, you can stand apart from the sea of applicants and land the job of your dreams. In this article we cover job search advice to help you land your dream job.
The Do’s of Job Searching
Let’s explore some tips on finding a job. These tips for job searching focus on things you can do to make your search more effective.
Do Customize Your Resume
One of the top tips for job searching is to ensure your resume is tailored to the job you are applying for. This includes the specific role you seek, as well as the industry it’s in. If you’re applying for a job in sales, for example, you might want to highlight skills like customer service, active listening and problem-solving.
If you’re not sure which skills are most applicable to the position, do a bit of research. Then, look for areas in your resume where you can emphasize these skills, like in your summary or objective, skills section or under your relevant work experience.
Do Build Your Skills While You Wait
Take some time to build your skills, particularly those that are most relevant to the industry you hope to work in.
Many eLearning providers offer skill development and certification courses. After completing a course, you can list it on your resume and post it on a networking site, like LinkedIn. Local libraries often offer free access to eLearning courses with patrons’ library cards.
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You can also build your skills through hands-on experience. While you’re waiting to land your dream job, consider using a platform such as Upwork, PeoplePerHour or Fiverr to find freelance work in your desired industry. You can also seek out volunteer opportunities in your area that apply to the type of job you want. For example, if you want to be a writer, but you don’t have much experience yet, you could see if a local organization needs help with their newsletter. This can provide you with valuable additions to your portfolio and help you land a job.
Do Network
While you’re searching for a job, network with professionals in your desired field. You can find in-person networking events in your area or use online networking platforms, like LinkedIn. Even if your new connections can’t help you secure a job today, they may be able to help you progress your career in the future.
Do Send a Follow-up Email
If it’s been a week or more since you applied for a job and you’ve heard nothing back, don’t be disheartened. That doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t get the job. Take a few minutes to send a follow-up email kindly requesting an update on the status of your application and reiterating why you would love to work at the company. Employers appreciate seeing initiative and interest. tThis can often help push your application to the next stage in the process.
The Don’ts of Job Searching
When discussing job search advice, it’s important to consider what you should not do. Here are some things that can hinder your job search.
Don’t Quickly Apply to Tons of Jobs with a Generic Cover Letter
Don’t use the same generic cover letter to quickly apply for dozens of jobs. That rarely results in a candidate landing a job, especially if you’re looking for a job that’ll truly be the best fit for you.
Take the time to customize your cover letter for the specific job you are applying for. Your cover letter should show exactly how you exemplify the skills necessary for the role.
Hiring managers also appreciate when cover letters specifically mention details about the employer and why the candidate is interested in a job there.
Don’t Apply for Jobs You Aren’t Interested In or Qualified For
As we’ve discussed, carefully customizing your resume and cover letter is a must. But that means that job applications can take up a lot of your time. Don’t waste your time by applying for jobs you’re not interested in.
If the job isn’t a good fit for your skills or the employer has bad reviews, keep looking. The last thing you want is to accept a job you're unhappy with and find yourself back on the job search a few months later.
Similarly, you also don’t want to waste time applying for jobs that you’re underqualified for. If you are missing a couple of the “desired” or “preferred” skills, that’s one thing, but if you’re missing “required” or “minimum” skills, experience or education, it’s likely your application will be automatically filtered out and won’t be seen by the hiring manager.
Don’t Limit Yourself to One Online Job Board
Don’t limit your job search by only using one online job board. There are several job listing platforms both on- and offline. Expanding your search will make it more likely you’ll land your dream job. Some popular online job boards include Indeed, ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor, LinkedIn and Craigslist.
You can find job listings by going directly to a company’s website and finding the “Careers” section in their menu. Local newspapers or community bulletin boards also frequently feature job ads.
Don’t Give Up
Finally, don’t give up. Finding a job can be a long and daunting process. Fortunately, you’re now equipped with job search tips that will make your search much more effective.
Read on for some tips on job interviews.