Employing a Fool-proof Job Search Strategy
Job searching in a competitive market can be challenging, but you can increase your chances of success with the right mindset and plan. How?
Here are 6 strategic job search tactics:
Set clear goals
When disappointment, anxiety, and nerves are at an all-time high, it’s easy to miss this step. It’s arguably, though, the most important! Here is where you get to pause and say, “Without this opportunity, I wouldn’t have the chance to gut-check where I’ve been, what I’ve been doing, and where I’m going.”
Check-in with yourself and figure out what you liked and didn’t like about your last role.
What strengths do you want to bring with you into this next position?
What weaknesses do you want to work on?
What do you want to do next in your career?
Is now the time to make a pivot or transition?
Define your ideal work environment and culture. You’ll be more focused and know what’s a “yes” for you and what’s a “no.” This will keep your search much more targeted, and, in the long run, you’ll be happier wherever you land.
Tailor your résumé and cover letter
Customize your résumé and cover letter for each job, highlighting relevant skills aligned to the role in a Core Competencies section. Ideally, your bullets are already data-driven and accomplishments-based to tell your career story from start to finish. Sign up for my newsletter to get my four weekly tips for a quick refresh! You’ll also receive other freebies like a FREE résumé review guide you can use to implement seven recommendations and uplevel your résumé in under an hour.
Network
Use your professional and personal network! Tell friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances you're on the job hunt. I’ve always found people want to help - they just have to know how they can!
Optimize your LinkedIn profile (check out mine as an example) so visitors know who you are and what you offer. Interact with your connections by commenting and engaging on posts. When you’re ready, try penning some for yourself!
I also always recommend a good informational interview. These are solid for building relationships and potential referrals when a position you’re interested in pops up.
Focus on time management
Searching for a job is a full-time job. Treat it that way by blocking out time in the day to research opportunities, apply for roles, track follow-ups, prep for interviews, and network.
Then, REST. It’s imperative to block off time for walks, friends and family, and a good book. As with anything, you’re at your best when rested. Give yourself grace.
Volunteer
Engage in volunteer work related to your field. Taking on a side project can help showcase your experience, create networking opportunities, and maybe enhance your skills.
Learn, learn, and learn some more
Have downtime between jobs? Now’s a great time to launch into that certification program you’ve been putting off. Recruiters and hiring managers love to see continuous learning. You can keep up to date with your industry, deep dive into something new, or even begin preparing yourself for an upcoming career move. Check out LinkedIn Learning for quick and easy courses.
Finally, stay positive! A job search takes time and persistence and will come with its fair share of rejection. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
One last tip - Did you know having a professional résumé writer craft an updated résumé can help job seekers land a new role faster?! Candidates who’ve had their resumes professionally rewritten have a 32% higher rate of landing a new job than those who did not.
If you’re curious about how I might be able to help with your job search, schedule a free intro call! I'd love to help craft that tailored résumé and help you get clear on those job search goals through Clarity Coaching.
🥂 nicole:)
