A job search is more than just looking for vacancies and sending CVs to employers. You also must ensure you are suitable for the job, can catch the recruiter’s attention, and are well prepared to answer the interview questions. Here are some valuable tips you can use to improve your chances of finding the job you want:
KNOW YOUR CAREER GOALS
First, find out what kind of career you want. This is especially important for people who are starting for the first time or changing jobs. Then, get advice from family, teachers, career coaches, or former colleagues. Next, make sure you have a clear and realistic goal, work out how you plan to achieve it, and note what qualifies you for this career path. These steps can help you narrow down your job search by choosing roles that you are passionate about, and that will help you develop professionally.
PLAN AHEAD
Organize yourself and your schedule to make your job search more efficient. Determine how many hours or days of the week you will devote to job searching or networking. Make sure your CV and cover letter are up to date. If you need help preparing them, look online for templates or samples. Make a list of two to three references and their contact details to give to employers.
Create or update your profile on professional networking websites and create a spreadsheet to note the jobs you have applied for and the interviews you have received. You could also set up a professional email account to separate and organize your job search messages from your notifications. Before starting your job search, these steps can speed up and facilitate the process.
GET HELP WITH YOUR CV AND COVER LETTER
Ask a friend, family member, colleague, career counselor, or other professional to check your CV and cover letter for mistakes and to give you advice. Some job seekers even choose to work with a professional CV writing service or resource to save time and improve their CV and cover letter.
MAKE THE MOST OF ALL JOB SEARCH RESOURCES
Instead of limiting yourself to manual online searches, use all job search options. This may include contacting companies or hiring managers in person, attending career fairs, searching social media, or using career counseling services. Use job search engines to find vacancies on job boards, company websites, professional associations, and elsewhere. Sign up to receive daily or weekly job adverts by email.
CUSTOMISE YOUR CV
Tailor your CV to each job you apply for. First, study the job description to determine why you are a good fit. Then add your skills, experience, and measurable achievements relevant to the job. Hiring managers who review many CVs should be able to read your CV and quickly see that you have the right skills for the job.
To simplify this step, prepare CV and cover letter templates so that they can be customized. Keep the main sections, such as education and contact details, the same, but personalize your abilities or previous work responsibilities to match the job you are applying for.
RESEARCH COMPANIES
When you find job offers that interest you, research the hiring companies before applying. This can give you information about the company’s culture, benefits and salary range, products and services, and working environment. Your research will tell you whether you want to work for the company or whether you are suitable. It will also give you valuable information you can refer to in your cover letter or interview.
APPLY WITH CONFIDENCE
Apply for a job that interests you, even if you only meet a few requirements. Depending on the job, employers may hire motivated people who are fast learners and provide on-the-job skills training. If you meet only some of the job requirements but think you can still succeed in the role, apply. Include examples of your work ethic and ability to learn new skills in your CV. Emphasize how your goals align with the company’s objectives.
PLAN INFORMATIVE INTERVIEWS
Informal interviews are informal conversations with professionals in the industry or company where you might want to work. Find out if you are suitable for the job by requesting an informational interview with someone who works in the field you are interested in. Look for potential interview subjects on professional networking sites or member organizations.
NETWORK REGULARLY
Reach out to people and make professional contacts both online and in person. Start conversations with people at seminars, social events, or meetings. Let them know you are looking for a job or want to work in a specific sector. They may have connections or advice to help you in your job search. You may also discover unpublished vacancies, or people may recommend you for future opportunities.
PREPARE FOR INTERVIEWS
Research common interview questions, create answers, and practice these answers before you are called for an interview. Then, ask a friend or professional contact to conduct the discussion with you. If you are well prepared, you will feel more confident and comfortable when you go for your following interview.
FOLLOW-UP
Send a thank you letter to the recruiter immediately after the interview. If you haven’t heard back after a week, follow up by phone or email. Doing so shows your passion and interest in the job. While waiting for a reply, keep looking and applying for jobs that interest you.
People Pakistan™ always strives to offer career-oriented strategies and techniques to help candidates acquire the skills they need for a bright future. So stay tuned and read more existing blogs to keep up with HR requirements.
