Applying for a job can seem overwhelming especially in today’s dynamic and competitive job market. But it doesn’t have to be an uphill struggle. Whether you’re a recent graduate, looking to change careers, or re-entering the workforce, there are strategies you can put into place to help you conduct the perfect job hunt.
Here are my top tips that combine LinkedIn with other techniques, to help you land your perfect role:
Time for self-reflection
Taking time for self-assessment can lead to a more fulfilling and successful job hunt. We spend so much of our time at work, so it’s worth reflecting on what you like and don’t like and identify your skills, experiences and strengths.
Define your values
It is also worth considering what matters to you most when it comes to work. Do you like the informality of an independent business or the traditional structure of a large corporate? Is it work-life balance, location or the ability to progress that ticks your box?
Look beyond the job boards
Don’t limit yourself to online job boards. Many companies use recruitment agencies, so identify and register with agencies specialising in your field. Remember, meeting with an agency is like another job interview – make a strong impression and listen to their advice.
Build agency relationships
While agencies primarily serve employers, maintaining a good relationship with them can be beneficial. Stay in touch regularly, particularly when you spot relevant job postings.
Make your CV algorithm friendly
There is a growing trend in the world of recruitment to use applicant tracking systems (ATS), which is a CV-scanning algorithm used to filter out candidates who do not meet the job description. If you are applying online, then assume an ATS is being used. To increase your chances of success, ensure your CV is in a simple format and contains associated keywords from the job description.
Embrace feedback
The chances are, you are going to get far more rejections than offers. It’s nothing personal and every knock-back presents a learning opportunity. Always request feedback, especially after interviews. Carefully consider any feedback you receive and use it to improve your approach.
Work LinkedIn
At over 20 years old, LinkedIn is still the most globally recognised professional social network. When it comes to finding a job, almost 15K members apply for jobs on LinkedIn every minute, with seven people hired also every minute [source: Social Shepherd]
So, using LinkedIn should be central to your job hunting tactics. Here are a few of my top recommendations to get the most out of LinkedIn when job hunting:
- Update Your Profile: Keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date and aligned with your CV. Discrepancies between the two can raise red flags for potential employers.
- Be Active, Not Passive: Participate in relevant discussions, post original content, use photos and video, comment on industry-related posts, and like content to increase your visibility within your professional network.
- Network: If you’re targeting a specific organisation, connect with the organisation on LinkedIn and relevant employees. If you land an interview, connect with panel members [if known] to demonstrate your interest and conduct pre-interview research.
- Maximise LinkedIn’s Features: Enable the “career interests” option in your LinkedIn dashboard to signal your availability to potential employers and connect with recruiters.
- Utilise Job Alerts: Set up job alerts on LinkedIn and other job boards to stay informed about relevant opportunities as soon as they’re posted.
- Clean-up Your Online Presence: Review all your social media accounts – not just LinkedIn – and remove any content that could be perceived negatively by potential employers. Never criticise current or past employers online!
Practice!
Interviews are stressful, but you can help yourself by being prepared. Practice makes perfect, and conducting mock interviews with friends or mentors will help build confidence. Start by researching common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses that include your personal experiences and achievements.
Prepare questions
At the end of an interview, you will almost always be asked if you have any questions. Remove the pressure of trying to think of something on the spot by preparing questions in advance, not only does it demonstrate interest, but it will also help you to assess if the company is a good fit for you.
Say thank you
Manners cost nothing but hold great value. Send a polite thank you email after your interview reiterating your interest in the position. And if you are not selected, respectfully ask for feedback and keep the door open for future opportunities.
Maintain a positive attitude
Job hunting can be challenging, but staying positive is a must. Don’t give up at the first hurdle. Try again!
Securing the right job often requires persistence and adaptability. I hope that my top tips for the perfect job hunt will encourage and help you to take the plunge or keep going.
Considered applying for a role at Zonal? You can find our latest job roles here.
And if you liked this blog then you might also like to read our top tips on what to do next after leaving education.
