The way we conduct our job search has changed significantly over the last decade. This means that tactics that helped us to succeed in the past may actually have the opposite effect today.
If you’re a career driven professional who is open to exploring new opportunities as you progress, then it’s important that you stay up to date with the latest trends. Below are some of the outdated job search tips that you need to forget about.
1. Job searching is a full-time job
We often think that getting started with looking for a new job is going to be a lot of effort and hard work. This is emphasised by the myth that looking for a new job is a full-time job in itself. However, this isn’t the case.
If you conduct your job search effectively and efficiently, it only needs to take you around an hour a day. You can spend 20 minutes looking at roles online, another 20 minutes tailoring your CV and 20 minutes networking with people who work in your industry.
It may take some time to find the perfect next role for you, but it certainly doesn’t have to take over all your evenings and weekends. With job search apps and CV databases you can sign-up to, job searching on the go is easier than ever.
2. Don’t apply if you don’t tick all the boxes
When employers come up with their list of job requirements, they think of all the best qualities and skills that the people in their team have. However, finding someone who ticks every single box is quite rare. If you fulfill the core requirements and have the confidence that you can succeed in the role then apply anyway and highlight how your skills will bring value.
3. Your CV is the most important job search tool
Your CV is certainly important when looking for a new role, but in today’s job market there’s something that may be even more important – your LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is the go-to place for recruiters and it’s prime head-hunting ground for talent. Even if you apply for a role with your CV, the recruiter is likely to look you up online and view your LinkedIn profile.
Before you start your job search, you should perfect your LinkedIn profile.
4. Job hopping is bad for your career
The days of working for a company for 30 or 40 years before retiring are over. In fact, staying put for such a long time may suggest that you aren’t adaptable and lack diversity and skill development. Don’t be afraid to change jobs after a few years to build your experience and progress.
5. Bullet-pointing your job responsibilities on your CV is sufficient
When listing your work experience on your CV, simply listing your job responsibilities isn’t going to get you anywhere. By doing this you are telling employers that you do what you are hired to do but you aren’t showing how you add value. Instead of focusing on your duties, highlight your biggest achievements and use facts and figures to back you up.
6. One strong version of your CV is enough
In the past, you may have been able to get away with creating one strong CV and firing it off to various employers. However, today you’ll need to tailor your CV to ensure it makes an impact. Some larger companies even use artificial intelligence to initially screen CVs for keywords and phrases that match their requirements.
Before submitting any job application today, you should ensure that you tailor your CV to show that you meet the requirements and highlight important skills.
7. Asking for a higher salary offends employers
When you receive a job offer, many professionals are hesitant to start trying to negotiate their salary, but you shouldn’t be. Trying to negotiate your salary is more likely to impress employers as you are demonstrating your drive and negotiation skills.
8. All jobs are advertised online
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking the only place you’ll find new opportunities is online. However, making the most of your connections and business relationships may prove successful too. Take advantage of any networking opportunities and find out what is going on at various companies that you may be interested in working for.
While most companies do put their available vacancies online, even if they don’t have anything advertised they are likely to be open to considering top talent. Don’t be afraid to give them a call or drop an email with your CV to see if they will consider you.
9. Only interview for jobs you know you want
If you’re not completely sold on a job opportunity you may be hesitant to attend an interview. While you don’t want to waste time on completely irrelevant roles, it’s worth attending interviews for roles even if you aren’t 100% yet. You’ll have an opportunity to find out more and make an informed decision and, you never know, the role may turn out to be the perfect thing for you.