Job hunting is not one size fits all. If you find yourself entering "jobs near me" into search engines and coming up empty over and over again, it's time you customize your job search to find the right position. In addition to preparing your resume, you'll want to make sure the job is a good fit for you, determine how you're going to get the hiring manager's attention, and make sure you are well prepared for interview questions. Our experts at 24 Seven, the leading creative recruitment agency, are sharing tips on how you can customize your job search to land your dream job!
Define Your Career Goals
First, you need to determine what type of job you want. Make a list of your skills, experience, passions, and the company cultures that appeal to you. Setting realistic goals will help you narrow down the positions that you want to pursue and what qualifies you for specific career paths. You should also make a list of companies you would like to work for to include them in your job search.
Start with a Plan
Like most things, job hunting requires a plan. Decide what days and how many hours per day you can dedicate to your job search and networking. Make a spreadsheet of jobs you've applied to and interviews you've received to keep track of your job search. You may also want to set up a professional email account separate from your personal email account. The more organized you are, the faster and easier the process will be.
Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter
While you will have a consistent format for your resume and cover letter, it shouldn't be cookie cutter. You should adapt your resume and cover letter to each job application. Take the time to study the job description and what is important to the hiring company, and carefully align your skills, experience, and achievements on your resume. If you are having a hard time getting started, check out our resource on writing an eye-catching resume.
Utilize Job Search Resources
There are many online job sites that you can use to search for jobs. Most of them also offer alerts that will let you know about jobs that match your requirements. But don't limit yourself to online job sites because you have to be tenacious and creative when searching for a job, including:
Utilize Linkedin to reach out directly to companies and hiring managers.
Reach out to friends and family about potential opportunities.
Visit company websites for career opportunities.
Attend a webinar in your desired industry.
Consider working with a recruiting agency.
Make Networking a Priority
Develop professional contacts in person and online, and let them know the type of job you are looking for and in what industries. Networking is one of the best ways to get connected to exciting opportunities. Through your efforts, you’ll gain practical advice and may even learn about specific jobs or companies that are hiring.
Schedule Informational Interviews
Informational interviews are a great way to learn about what a job is really like and if you are a good fit for specific types of jobs and companies from people in the industry. An informational interview is also an excellent way to develop professional relationships that could be helpful down the line. You can search for people to reach out to on professional networking sites or member organizations.
Do Your Research
Once you find jobs that you want to apply for, do your homework. Conduct research to learn about the company, its culture, and its products and services. This will provide you with valuable information you can use on your cover letter, resume, and in an interview. Companies want to know that you have taken the time to learn about the job and the organization.
Prepare for Interviews
Once you have an interview set up, get prepared so you will be confident and comfortable during the interview. Research interview questions, develop responses, and practice responding to questions. Think about how you can engagingly tell your story. Examples of your skills, experience, and accomplishments will help the hiring manager see how well you will fit in the position.
Remember to Follow Up
After an interview, send the hiring manager a thank-you note and express your interest in the job. If you don't hear from them after a week, you may want to follow up with an email to let them know your continued interest in the job and the company.
Work with a Recruiter
Talking to or working with a recruiter can provide you with a professional perspective on your skills, how to position your experience and accomplishments, and how to develop a great resume and cover letter. By working with a recruiter, you will have someone in your corner. If they think you are a good fit for a job, the hiring manager will rely on their recommendation. Working with a recruiter has many benefits, including:
Access: A recruiter's job is to make connections, and they have access to positions that may not be posted online, so they can significantly expand your network.
Process: A recruiter can help you through the process from applying to accepting a position. They can help with your resume, coach you on interviewing, and provide you with valuable feedback.
Clients: Recruiters know their clients and what they want in a candidate. They can provide you with details about the business and will have a lot of knowledge about the position.
Staying on the Radar: If the first potential job doesn't work out, you are still on a recruiter's radar. They will continue to provide you with potential opportunities.
Let 24 Seven Customize Your Job Search for Success!
24 Seven is a high-touch recruitment agency. Our full-time and freelance recruiters have industry-specific work experience, and act as career coaches, guiding you through the process. Interested? Take a minute to search through some of our job opportunities and contact us!