There’s more to job searching than browsing job sites.
So here you are, looking for a new job to pay the bills and support your eclectic lifestyle. But don’t fret too much, there’s still an economy in play. The world still needs to eat, drink and live, even in the midst of a global pandemic. Which means your task now is to find the right job and execute your self-promotion tactics.
1. Research The Market
What areas of your chosen industry are on the rise? What should you avoid? Are there any specific companies thriving in the current environment?
Indeed, you must also need to consider the fact that some industries are out of practice right now for various reasons. Which means you may need to get a little flexible.
Hospitality, for instance, has especially taken a beating, but some areas are still going strong. Boardroom waiters are coming back up in the midst of loosened restrictions with people returning to the office. But do consider transferring your skills to other industries. Supermarkets, for instance, have stayed strong thanks to all the panic buying earlier this year.
Other vibrant industries to consider are healthcare, telecommunications and courier services. And don’t forget that it may be a good idea to find any good job to at least get you through this COVID-19 period.
Remember: it’s better to find another job when you are already working.
2. Update Your Online Presence
Unless you’re living under a rock, you probably have an online presence. It was once the latest craze, but now it’s part of our social fabric. And if you’re looking to get into a job that requires communication, it’s likely that you’ll need to have an online presence.
Thankfully, when it comes to LinkedIn, most of us already have an account. But how well does your profile look? And not just to your friends, but even prospective employers?
Note: LinkedIn is a great way to lure employers who may not actively be looking for new talent.
3. Don’t Just Focus On Job Sites
According to Business Insider, around 70% of jobs are not advertised. While it may be good to add job sites to your job searching endeavours, you may want to look to other alternatives too.
In fact, according to author, CEO and Founder of The Adler Group (performance-based hiring learning system) Lou Adler on LinkedIn, the most lucrative way to get a job is by networking –approximately 85% of job hires come through this means. Reach out to your friends and acquaintances and ask them about possible job openings. You’d be surprised what golden nuggets they might be able to unearth.
The networking process can be made even easier if you utilise online platforms such as Linked In. You may not know someone now, but you may attract the right person in the process.
Aside from networking, there is one other way to find a job than just job websites. When you’re certain of your industry or dream role, research the field, and you’ll surely find a whole host of viable businesses. They may not be proactively hiring, but they may have a possible opening coming up. By throwing them an application, it puts you in a better position.
If you already fit the role, you make it easier for them to hire you than to continue the search elsewhere. You never know what some serendipitous timing might uncover.
This process is named cold calling, where you contact companies and ask about possible job openings – this can be over the phone or via email.Make sure you’ve done your research about the company first, so you can be sure to impress. It’s also a good idea to have a short spiel about yourself ready to go when you cold call.
4. Tweak Your Resume For Every Application
Every prospective job is different, so be sure to tweak your resume for each position. Sending out the same resume to every employer is akin to telling the same joke to all your friends and expecting the same result. It isn’t going to happen!
So tailor that resume to any new employer you apply for. Try to match their brand personality while focusing on the role they’re offering and ensure you highlight the skills relevant to that specific role.
Unless they ask for it, stick to a resume.
5. Cover Letters!
Let’s be short and sweet here: A resume tells the employer how well you fit in a position. A cover letter shows them.
So be sure to send one to every employer you apply for when hunting for a job. For this, don’t also forget that you need to alter your cover letter for every application you submit.
6. Be Genuine and Don’t Fake Anything
Whether you’re writing up your resume or cover letter, cold calling or in the interview process, remember to be genuine and true to your personality. An employer doesn’t hire someone based solely on how well their skills match the position. They also look for personality traits that fit the role and the company brand.
Many marketing or communications-based roles, for instance, love people who boast creativity and a social attitude. Banks might seek out honest and trustworthy individuals. It all depends on who you apply for.
But don’t fake a personality to get a job. It might land you an interview, but that’s where the walls come down. The employer will know you’ve lied.
7. Look After Yourself!
Searching for a job is a painstaking task that requires you to be at your best self. This means there is no point job searching when you’re down in the dumps. It’ll show in the way you communicate.
So give yourself a break when you need it. Watch a movie, go for a walk, have a candlelit bath session if need be. Do what you can to lift your spirits while you’re job hunting.
It not only saves your mental health, but it boosts your chances of winning that next big role.
Want help with looking after yourself? Check out these 10 soothing meditation apps. And help yourself escape by following these amazing Australian nature photographers.
