How To Improve Your Chances Of Finding A Job
If your job search exclusively involves sitting behind your computer searching, scrolling and sending off CVs, you may not be doing all you can to get a job. A more balanced approach to job-seeking can bring success.
Do not underestimate networking
The first thing you need to do is get out there and network, not every once in a while, but once every week. You may know a lot about your field, but sometimes you need to call on your contacts. Friends, old colleagues, and relatives probably aren’t going to be able to get you a job, but they can often get your CV looked at seriously, so connect with people and don’t be afraid to ask for support. Networking involves any conversation about your job hunt. Coffees with ex-colleagues, chats with a recruiter, or formal events are all a good use of your time. You may be hesitant about putting yourself out there, but it will get easier with practice.
Don’t be a stranger to your contacts
The follow-up is another key element of an effective job search. You need to follow-up with your contacts after networking and you need to follow-up on all job applications. As with networking, following up can feel uncomfortable and it is thus tempting to avoid it, but your weekly schedule should include a follow-up to ensure that you haven’t been forgotten.
Be active on social networks
You’re networking, you’re following up, now you need to remember your online presence. Your social profiles, in particular, your LinkedIn account, need to be developed, monitored, and maintained. Get into the habit of checking LinkedIn at least weekly as there will always be conversations taking place about job searches in your area. Moreover, by following companies in your field, you will be able to identify hiring trends and thus will learn when’s a good time to submit your application. Finally, a well-developed, detailed profile will appeal to recruiters and will enable them to find you online. Of course, LinkedIn also gives job-seekers the chance to contact recruiters themselves and be proactive rather than waiting to be contacted.
Let people know who you are
Finally, and it perhaps sounds like an odd thing to say, but job-seekers need to know who they are. If you attend a networking event or interview with a clear perception of your strengths and your ambitions, you will immediately be a more attractive candidate than someone who’s not quite sure where they’re going. Invest time in your personal brand. Print some business cards and prepare a statement about who you are. A clear ‘this is me and this is what I do’ statement will make an impact. Also, find the time to blog, tweet, and volunteer about or in your field to help spread awareness of your expertise.
A good CV is great and an essential part of all job searches but spending all day every day sending it off to potential employers is not the best way to conduct a job search. Connect with others and make yourself known and difficult to overlook.
