7 Effective Job Search Practices to Secure the Best Opportunities
Switching jobs is always challenging, no matter how many times you’ve done it previously. The monumental task of searching for openings, anxiety after applying, the anticipation of offers, and the pressure of dealing with the outcome can all sometimes be too much to endure. This is why some proven job search practices can help relieve stress and increase your odds of landing a dream job. Here are seven best job search practices to follow online.
Always have a resume ready
Don’t bother searching for jobs unless you have a resume ready. Because the first thing recruiters check is your updated resume, and they will look at the last working experience first. So, format it properly, proofread it, and most importantly, have someone look it over to get a second opinion. Some simple refinements can make the resume stand apart and increase the odds of getting shortlisted for an interview.
Be the first one to apply
Take, for example, LinkedIn. If there is a job listing that you can apply for using the “Easy Apply” feature, don’t hesitate to do so if the job profile matches your requirement. Have your cover letter, recommendations, and resume ready, as recruiters will respond quickly if they fancy your application. Understand that everyone will scramble to apply, and the competition will be tough. Be the early bird and go fully prepared. You need to show the recruiter that you are serious about this application and are not just casually browsing.
Widen your search
Don’t just stick to the mainstream job portals. Check the company websites to see if the same offers are listed there. Often, you might get a quicker response by applying directly on the company website. Recruiters prefer candidates who are initiative-taking in their job search. Smaller niche job classifieds are also a great avenue to explore openings listed by smaller and mid-size companies hiring for a specific role.
Turn on all alerts
Most job listing portals have alerts feature that may be free or might be part of a paid subscription. But job alerts can fetch several current openings, so you don’t have to screen hundreds of updates manually. Select the type of work and let the website algorithms scan and deliver top job alerts for that requirement based on your profile. After finding a suitable alert, immediately apply and submit all documents for scrutiny. This way, you’ll save time and effort and stay ahead on the applications list.
Focus on networking
Reach out to peers, colleagues, friends, and potential contacts who may be instrumental in helping secure decent work. LinkedIn even has an “Open to Work” feature that implies candidates are willing to accept invites from recruiters actively hiring for a specific job. But apart from mainstream websites, reach out to any contact who may know a fellow recruiter in a mainstream company or even a hiring manager from a special industry. Networking improves your odds of landing a niche job that also pays well down the line.
Organize your social media
It’s probably a good idea to archive some of those pictures on Instagram or Facebook where you might have been caught in the act doing something not so professional. Companies these days perform an extensive background check after shortlisting resumes. Simply put, the company doesn’t have to know about your wild side. You may be applying for a job in a leadership position and have to set the best possible example at work. Remove pictures, posts, or uploads that might hurt your hiring chances.
Work on your self-presentation
Resume uploaded? Check. Now it’s time to brush up on some useful interviewing and people skills. Remember, it all comes down to the personal interview, where the company and hiring manager focus only on professional skills and personal attributes. Experts advise against giving vague replies and deliberately extending conversations. You must train to keep all responses short and cohesive. Also, be straightforward and outline realistic expectations.