When it comes to a job search, some might say that it is easier than ever to find a job because of the numerous online resources available on the internet. But this is not necessarily true, especially when the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics claims an unemployment rate of 6.7%, while economic data indicates an actual unemployment rate of well over 15%. These figures don’t take into account all of the employed job-seekers that are earning a salary below what they previously earned. While there may be a multitude of websites available for job seekers to utilize, there are now more people than ever with access to these resources that are just a mouse click (or a finger tap) away!
When looking at skilled professions, there are often more job seekers than there are available jobs. In an environment where your competition is at an all time high, it is increasingly important to make sure that you are adequately prepared – and this is much more than making sure your resume is current. To aid in your job search, CareerFlight.com presents the following tips.
1) Perform a Self-Assessment
Ask yourself questions like “What interests me? What am I passionate about? What do I enjoy doing the most?” There are many people in the workforce with jobs they do not enjoy. One of the best ways to avoid this is to simply reflect upon your own interests.
2) Explore Career Options
How can you do what you are passionate about on a professional basis, and make a living doing so? This takes some career exploration. Often, it may involve getting an education related to those interests. It is never too early or too late to get an education that will serve as the bedrock for the rest of your career, even when you’re changing careers!
3) Make Your Resume Relevant and to the Point
Your resume should contain work experience relevant to the job you are seeking. As an example, if you started working 15 years ago but have only been working in your current field for 7 years, remove those positions older than 7 years ago. Also, be sure to proofread your resume; do not rely on spell-check alone. Resume errors are often mis-used words, not misspelled ones.
4) Post Your Resume to Job Sites
Once your resume is polished, get it posted online. This helps companies (and job recruiters) to find you online. If you are currently employed, remember that your employer could see your resume so you might want to post it anonymously. If you are not currently employed, it is best to not post anonymously as companies may be less likely to contact you.
5) Choose Which Job Sites You Post to Carefully
You will see the same jobs posted on hundreds of online job sites. It is important to be discerning about which sites you post to. Some are advertisement-laden and simply want your contact information so they can send you marketing messages. Stick with job sites that provide useful information and search tools as these as these are more likely to aid in our job search.
6) Narrow Your Search Criteria
Job sites usually provide “filters” which enable job seekers to sort search results more efficiently. Use these filters to narrow your search by keyword(s), company name, geographic location, industry and more.
7) Stay on Top of Things
When searching online for a job, be sure to keep track of who you have already applied with. Also, make sure you do adequate research on the companies you are applying with. In the event they contact you, you will be prepared and won’t feel like a “deer staring into headlights”. Lastly, follow-up on the jobs you’ve applied for. Sometimes the hiring process can take a long time and staying in touch helps keep your name fresh in the mind(s) of the individual(s) responsible for hiring.
8) Network with Others
You know the old adage, “it’s not who you are, but who you know”? It may sound cliché, but in many cases it’s true. Today we can use social networking tools like LinkedIn.com in addition to traditional networking with our friends and business associates to build strong personal and professional networks.
9) The Interview
When you receive an interview request, be enthusiastic, courteous, and as flexible as possible. It’s very important to arrive for your interview on time. If possible, arrive a few minutes early to allow yourself time to take a deep breath and to mentally prepare. Dress in clothing that is appropriate for the job you are interviewing for. Last but not least, keep a positive attitude and be yourself. The employer is interviewing you to confirm your job skills and to see if you will be a good fit with their team. After the interview, be sure to follow-up via phone or email to thank your interviewer(s) for their time and consideration.
10) The Job Offer
If you receive a job offer, be sure to evaluate the pros and cons carefully. After all, this is no small decision; this is where you will be spending the majority of your waking hours. Should the pros outweigh the cons, you’ll know what to do. Good luck!