Creative Ways You Can Improve Your Job Search
You’ve put your heart, soul, and everything you’ve got into your resume. You’re ready to send it out and land an interview, but not so fast.
Your job search isn’t complete until you have a solid plan of attack for landing the job of your dreams. It can be hard to find the right job for you.
Here are some creative ways that can help you improve your chances of getting the job:
1. Create a list of all the companies you want to work for.
Creating a list of jobs you are interested in can help you feel less overwhelmed. This can be done by searching for companies that are a good fit for you on the internet or through social media.
Use sites like Glassdoor and Indeed to learn more about the companies you’re interested in working for.
Check out the LinkedIn profiles of people who work at those companies and see what they have to say about it.
Look up reviews and ratings of those companies on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, etc., as well as reviews from people who work there (on Glassdoor).
2. Tailor your resume based on the industry and company.
You’ll be more likely to get a job if you tailor your resume based on the industry and company.
Use keywords in your resume specific to the job title you’re applying for, such as “sales” or “customer service,” so employers can quickly see that you have experience in those areas.
Make sure your resume is easy to read and understand, It should be clear at one glance what kind of position you’re seeking, how long it’s been since you’ve held this type of job before (if applicable), which skills matter most within this field, and why.
If you’ve been on any courses, even if they’re not certified make sure to include them. Lots of people have received Excel training through their work. If you have include the name of the company and the course you attended – for example “2 Day Excel Advanced Excel Course with Acuity Training”.
3. Networking is your best tool.
There are so many ways to network, such as industry meetups, social media, and common socializing.
Here is a list of some of the best ways to network:
- Networking events. Go to industry meetups, conferences, and other events to connect with people in your field.
- Social media. Keep up with people you know on LinkedIn or Twitter so that they will see your new connections when they are looking for a job or someone to fill an opening at their company (and then get in touch with them!).
- Referrals from friends, family members, or coworkers who can vouch for how awesome you are.
4. Get involved at your local career center, university, or library.
The more you show interest and enthusiasm in your community, the more likely your resume will stand out among the rest. It’s also good practice to get involved with organizations related to your field of work.
For example, if you’re interested in becoming an engineer, try volunteering at an engineering center or working on a local project at home.
You can also volunteer for events hosted by career centers and libraries—these are great places to meet people who are working in fields similar to yours.
If you don’t know where these networking events take place, just ask someone from HR or look up job listings online. You might even be able to find them on college campuses or community centers near where you live.
Many universities host events throughout the year that bring together students from different majors looking for internships and full-time positions after graduation.
5. Contact recruiters and job boards to find companies that are hiring.
If you’re looking for a job, your local job board is the first place to start.
These days, many companies have their own websites where they post their openings and applications. You can check out some of the more popular ones at sites like Glassdoor and Indeed.
Some employers also use third-party resources to find employees—these include online hiring tools like LinkedIn Recruiter and traditional recruiting firms like Robert Half International (RHI).
6. Create a LinkedIn profile.
Make sure your LinkedIn profile looks professional and relevant to help your job search.
Make your profile complete, with photos, recommendations, and all relevant information that will help you get noticed by recruiters.
Use keywords in your profile. This will help recruiters find you when searching online for talent with specific skill sets or experiences they need for an open position.
If possible, include some of the technical terms related to the position you’re looking for — just be sure not to go overboard: You don’t want your resume to sound like it was written by someone else entirely.
7. Don’t Settle.
Many people are so ready to get a job they’ll take any that comes their way. But you need to remember your worth and wait for a job that reflects your worth.
Before you accept a job, you should look at the contract and take inventory. What type of benefits are they offering? What are the potentials for growth in the company?
Contracts can be worded in jargon that is difficult to understand. Get some help understanding your contract here.
Conclusion
When you’re looking for a job, it can seem like an overwhelming task. There are so many different methods and strategies that you have to consider, but remember that every little bit helps.
We hope this article has helped you improve your job-searching skills. Even if you have a job, it’s important to keep your skills up-to-date and ensure you’re always ready for the next opportunity.
If you want to go above and beyond in your search for jobs, check out our other articles on making a good resume or cover letter.
