Job hunting requires persistence, adaptability, and a positive mindset. Implement the below tips, stay proactive, and keep refining your approach.
1. Think Beyond Job Titles: Use Industry-Specific Keywords and Skills
When searching for job opportunities, don’t limit yourself to generic job titles. Instead, focus on broader industry-specific keywords and essential skills. For instance, if you’re interested in a marketing role, look for terms like “digital marketing,” “SEO specialist,” or “content strategist.” These targeted searches will provide a range of search results specific to your skillset, sometimes in roles that you would not normally consider as relevant or applicable to you.
2. Stay Ahead with Job Alerts
Set up job alerts on platforms like LinkedIn and other job boards. Being an early applicant can significantly boost your chances of getting noticed. When a relevant job opening is posted, you’ll receive an immediate notification, allowing you to submit your application promptly. Remember, have your CV ready to go in a text based document so that you can copy and paste, and not waste time re-typing the same thing over and over. Streamline the process for yourself as much as possible.
3. Job Title Variations Matter
Different companies use varying job titles for similar roles. For example, a “Bid Writer” position might also be advertised as a “Proposal Writer” or a “Document Writer.” Paired with tip number 1, you will simultaneously broaden and narrow your search into a field that directly covers a skillset that you are specifically suited to address.
4. Optimise Your CV for Search Algorithms
Recruiters often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter through résumés. To make your CV stand out, incorporate relevant technical phrases and keywords into your CV. Highlight your accomplishments, certifications, and specific tools you’ve mastered. Additionally, consider re-uploading your CV periodically. Frequent updates signal to the algorithm that your profile is active and relevant.
If you are finding that you don’t have additional achievements to add to your CV outside of education and experience, this is your sign to add more skills to your belt. It’s never too late to learn. Take on a short course in a relevant field, challenge yourself to complete a small project every month (at the end of 12 months you’ll have at least 3 solid examples to show as proof) or take up a relevant hobby. Remember, whatever you choose should take you out of your comfort zone as the idea is to expand on your existing skills.
The often paraphrased “a jack of all trades is a master of none” is in full quotation actually “A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one”. As the job market gets evermore competitive, it’s important to have a broad, complimentary range of skill sets available.
5. Network at Industry Events and Job Fairs
You may have come across the saying “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know”. This is a stone cold fact when it comes to job hunting. This of examples of this in your own life, are you more likely to hire someone that has been recommended to you by a trusted friend or colleague, or take a chance on a random stranger? What you know only becomes of primary importance once you are hired.
Attending industry-specific events and job fairs provides a unique opportunity to connect with hiring managers and representatives from companies you’re interested in. Engage in meaningful conversations, exchange business cards, and follow up afterwards. Building genuine relationships can lead to referrals and valuable insights about job openings. Also note that providing value to others (within reason) is a cornerstone of networking, and pays off over time as you build a reputation of being a reliable individual.
6. Leverage Recruitment Agencies
Recruitment agencies specialise in matching candidates with suitable roles. Reach out to reputable agencies in your field. They have access to exclusive job listings and can advocate for you during the hiring process. This can be especially useful if you are working full time and are in search of your next role. Be transparent about your preferences and career goals, and let them work their magic. This should be used to enhance your job search, don’t allow it to become your sole resource.
7. Explore Social Media Platforms Beyond LinkedIn
While LinkedIn is a powerful tool, don’t overlook other social media platforms. Facebook, for instance, hosts job groups and pages where employers post openings. Join relevant groups, follow company pages, and engage with industry-related content. You never know when an opportunity might pop up in your feed. Becoming an active contributor in these groups also provides value (tip number 5), and keeps your name in the “mindshare” of other users. When roles come up that their immediate network are unable to fill, the next port of call is their wider network, which is where social media can fit in.
8. Follow Up with Recruiters on LinkedIn
After submitting an application, don’t just wait passively. Send a polite follow-up message to the recruiter on LinkedIn. Express your interest in the role, enquire about the application status, and reiterate your enthusiasm. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment and professionalism. Again, taking up “mindshare” (tip 7) with recruiters puts you at the front of the queue when said recruiters trusted network is unable to provide service and they must search a broader field.
9. Consistency Is Key: Apply Daily
Job hunting is a numbers game. Set a goal to apply for jobs every single day. Even if you’re currently employed, dedicate time to researching and submitting applications. Review what jobs you have applied for at the end of each week. Are there applications from 2-3 weeks ago that you can follow up on? Could you improve on the number of jobs that you are applying for? Consistency pays off, and the more opportunities you pursue, the greater your chances of landing interviews.
10. Seek Guidance from Industry Insiders
Connect with professionals who are already working in your desired field. Reach out to them on LinkedIn and ask for advice. Be respectful of their time and specific in your enquiries. Seek insights on breaking into the industry, building relevant skills, and navigating the job market. Their first hand experiences can be invaluable. If the industry insider offers you advice, report back your findings, this lets the insider know that their time is not being wasted and you are serious about your career progression.
Don’t allow yourself to become overwhelmed, stay organised and simply take on the tasks for the day. Tomorrow’s tasks can wait until then. Your dream job awaits!
