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Key points
- It can be tough to find a job in today’s market.
- Think strategically about what recruiters are looking for in your field and industry.
- Be creative as you search for job openings and related opportunities and consider your existing connections.
- Practice patience and try to remain objective when setting job and career-related goals.
I vividly recall applying for my first “real” job after college. I scoured the job sites, sent my resume to numerous places, and finally landed a few interviews. It was a humbling process, and I took the one and only job offer that I received. In my heart, I wanted to hold out for a “better” job, but I decided to be grateful and practical and accept the position. I ended up enjoying my new role thoroughly and stayed with the company much longer than initially anticipated.
If you are interested or in need of a new job, consider the following tips and strategies.
Consider what hiring managers are looking for in your industry.
In general, hiring managers and recruiters scout out candidates who demonstrate flexibility and resilience. While always important, flexibility is imperative in today’s global marketplace. Hiring managers want to hire someone who is agreeable and comfortable making last-minute changes. Resiliency is also incredibly important since recruits need to be able to push hard even when things do not go as promised or as planned.
A newer trend is to hold preliminary interviews by phone or Zoom instead of in person.
If feasible, ask if you may come in for the meeting. If not, request a video call. Video conferencing technology allows the recruiter to “see” you, albeit virtually. You can demonstrate professionalism and maturity via video. You can also show the recruiter that you have a strong attention span, which is a plus for applicants in all industries.
Keep your eyes and ears open for potential positions.
Check the online job boards for openings. If there is a particular organization you are interested in, you may also find a posting directly on the company’s website. Professional social networking sites, like LinkedIn, also share job opportunities. Professional organization websites list job postings, too. For instance, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has a very popular job board with human resources-related opportunities.
Patience is a virtue!
Be practical: Remember that many organizations are downsizing or furloughing workers. Set a practical goal regarding the amount of time that you will actively search for a position. If you cannot find “the” perfect full-time opportunity by a certain date, consider project work or part-time opportunities to gain experience until the right job comes your way. Don’t forget to consider virtual work opportunities in other areas outside of your geographic home base, too
Set up automated reminders on job sites. While you may want to check for new jobs a few times per day, setting up an automated notification will allow you to stay on top of new opportunities without draining your energy. Set a goal of sending your resume to 10 opportunities each day. Once you meet your goal, practice self-care. This is a prime opportunity to take extra special care of yourself before you get busy at a new job.
While it’s great to be enthusiastic, also be realistic and patient.
Don’t send multiple emails to a recruiter. It shows interest when you send an email with your resume to a recruiter. If that recruiter wants to interview you for the role, they will contact you. It’s appropriate to follow up one week after you send your first message, but not sooner. Remember that there is a fine line between being assertive and being pushy.
Don’t set impractical goals. Remember that this is an unprecedented time. While you may wish to land a job immediately, this will likely not happen. You may find the ideal position right away, but don’t expect it. Rather, plan to spend more time sending out resumes and interviewing before landing your big break.
Be active on professional social media sites.
The best way to network and conduct informational interviews is through the use of social networking sites and services. Become active on LinkedIn. Join job boards. Participate in online discussions and Zoom meetings about topics of interest. Share your expertise with others while you network and build relationships.
Copyright© 2023 Amy Cooper Hakim
