Tips on How to Make The Job Search Easier
When you’re looking for a job, it is sometimes hard to not feel like just a number. With the average job opening receiving over 250 applications, it has never been more critical to find ways to stand apart from the crowd. We know that the job search can sometimes be difficult, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. One sure-fire way to make your job search a breeze is to work with a recruiter from Dunhill Staffing Systems! But aside from the obvious, we have compiled a list of simple actions you can take that will help make the job search easier.
Get Creative With Where You Look For Jobs
According to a recent statistic, approximately 80% of the jobs available are not posted online. This means that the average job seeker will have to explore different avenues in order to find what is out there. A recruiter typically has first access to great jobs before they’re even posted. They have the ability to help you find jobs that are flying under the radar, but also keep in mind that there is no such thing as too much networking! Keeping your job search private is going to limit the results you will get. If possible, publicise your jobs search verbally and online. You never know if a friend, of a friend of a friend, may know about a position that would be perfect for you! You may be surprised to find out how many placements are made through non-traditional routes, so keep your eyes open.
Social Media is Important in the Job Search
Social media is ever-present in our lives, and the role it plays in the job search is becoming increasingly vital for all parties involved. Employers have been known to turn down candidates if they find compromising images on their social media profiles. So, if you are thinking about applying to a new job, do yourself a favor and take down all of your over-the-top party photos – now is the time for professionalism.
Curate your online presence in the way that you would want your potential boss seeing you. This simple thing can mean the difference between getting a new job or not. Your Facebook and Instagram profiles can double as job search vehicles, so make the most of them!
Craft the Perfect Resume – or Resumes!
Every recruiter, employer and hiring manager will tell you the same thing: don’t apply to every job with the exact same resume. While it may take a little bit of extra time, make sure to tailor your resume to be as relevant as possible to the specific job you are applying to (even if you are applying to several similar roles). It’s worth it! Hiring managers pay attention to the little details and are good at discerning if a resume has been recycled. Focus on the experience and skills that are the most applicable to the position in question.
If there isn’t much tweaking you can do to your resume, put together a thoughtful and detailed cover letter. Also, try to incorporate some of the keywords that were used in the job posting into both documents. Remember, you only have a few seconds to grab the employers attention, so be strategic.
Highlight Your Soft Skills in Your Job Search
Sometimes, there will be other applicants who have slightly better technical skills and more past experience than you in a side-by-side comparison. But worry not! There are other important qualities that are also valid on a resume and can make you shine as an excellent choice. People skills, teamwork skills and organizational skills are all examples of qualities that hiring managers look for in most positions. If you market yourself in the right way, you may be able to get your foot in the door without having as much experience as your peers.
While highlighting your soft skills doesn’t hurt your resume, aim within reach and focus your job search to positions that you are reasonably qualified for. For example, Dunhill’s recruiters are currently hiring Member Service Representatives/Tellers for Heritage Trust Fund and are specifically seeking individuals with customer-service experience! This includes individuals with backgrounds in sales and/or retail. Focusing on the soft-skills you developed in these types of roles will help you land the job!
Treat The Job Search Like a Full-Time Job
Try to get into the working headspace as soon as possible. Even when you’re searching for a job from home, little things like dressing professionally and having a designated area/time of day dedicated to the job search can work wonders for your mindset! Like most things in life, you will get back what you put into it. The more serious you are about your job search right from the start, the more likely you are to get the results that you want.
Be Confident
It can sometimes feel difficult to not get discouraged after experiencing a few rejections. However, don’t let the negativity affect your stride! Ignore your inner critic and remain as confident as possible. A lack of confidence is noticeable, and it can turn off potential employers. With most positions, you are going to be interacting with others and be representative of the company, so employers need to know that they are going to be in good hands.
What other tips and tricks do you have up your sleeve to make your job search easier? Let us know at info@dunhillstaff.com.
