There’s a lot of job searching tips out there, so many in fact that reading up on them can feel overwhelming. To help you focus and fine-tune your job searching strategy, we’ve pulled together some timeless tips that are proven to work.
1. Make yourself an obvious fit for the role
Before your CV is even looked at by a Hiring Manager, it may have to get through an applicant tracking system screening. This is an automatic process where your CV is searched for keywords and skills that match the job criteria. If they’re not present in your CV, your application won’t be making it any further.
Whether you have to overcome a computer screening or not, you should always make it very clear that you tick a lot of boxes for the role you are applying for. You should have a list of requirements in the job advert, so go through your CV and ensure that the skills and attributes required are glaringly obvious. How can they not consider you for the role when you can clearly walk through the door and deliver what they want?
2. Don’t limit your job search to online applications
While applying for jobs online should undoubtedly be a large part of your job search, you shouldn’t solely rely on that. Networking can also be extremely valuable when looking for a new role. This could be talking to your current contacts and friends or trying to connect with people who work at companies you would like to join. You can also get in touch with recruiters who specialise in your line of work.
If you can get a referral, you will be much more likely to receive a job offer, so put your relationships to good use and see how others can help.
3. Your CV and LinkedIn profile can be changed (many times)
So, you’ve perfected your CV and LinkedIn profile ready for your job search which is great. However, it’s important to remember that these are not set in stone. If they do not show that you are a direct match for the role you’re gunning for then make some changes. You can always swap some bullet points in and out and modify your wording to ensure that everything is relevant.
Top Tip: If you’re updating your LinkedIn profile ready for your job search, be sure to turn off activity broadcasts for your profile changes. This option can be found within privacy and settings and it will prevent your boss and colleagues from becoming suspicious.
4. Don’t be boring
It is important to demonstrate that you are professional and polished when applying for jobs, but don’t be boring! If you litter your CV with clichés and memorising the perfect interview answers you are more likely to look staged and ungenuine. Don’t be afraid to show a bit of personality and to talk about your hobbies and interests. If you can connect with hiring managers on a more personal level they are more likely to hire you.
5. Get on LinkedIn
If you’re not on LinkedIn, what are you doing? 90% of recruiters use LinkedIn as their primary search tool and when you apply for a role, employers are very likely to look you up. Ensure that you have an excellent LinkedIn profile and position yourself to be found online and you may be surprised how much this helps your job search.
6. Manners matter
Following up on interviews with a genuine thank you email can set you apart from your competition. It only has to be short, but you can emphasise that you are enthusiastic about the company and role while thanking the interviewer for their time. Be sure to make every thank you unique otherwise, you may come across more robotic than genuinely thankful.
Now get out there and ace your job search.