Looking for a job in today’s struggling economy can easily be a daunting task, to say the least! It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged…where do you start? If this is the position you find yourself in, then take heart! This article was written with you in mind!
Use social media to build and define your online presence. More employers are starting to factor in candidates’ public profiles on the most popular sites, which include Facebook and Twitter. Update your privacy settings to ensure that any questionable images, updates and links are not visible to people outside of your network. Do not forget to change visibility settings for photos that have been posted by your friends.
Do what you are told to do as quickly and well as you can. Anytime that you are charged with a special task it is an opportunity to show off your skills and please your boss. Do those tasks first, of course, without neglecting you regular responsibilities. Show your boss that you manage your work load well.
Join professional organizations that relate to your industry. This is a good way to get your name out there and to boost your business network. Your membership in a professional organization gives you additional credentials on your resume that may make a positive difference in a hiring manager’s decision to hire you.
When you are going to be interviewed for a job, you need to dress professionally. Carefully select your clothing and style your hair so that you present a professional image. Don’t ignore the little details like the condition of your nails and shoes. Employers will judge you on the way you look generally, so making a good impression is advised.
When looking for a job, consider shifting industries. If you are in between jobs, that is usually the best time to make a change. If you have been working in sales, for example, now might be the best time to shift to real estate. Look for ways to use your skillset in new ways, and that will expand the list of possible jobs for you.
Make sure that you apply to many different jobs to give yourself the best chance of landing one. Even if it looks promising, it’s not a definite thing until you’re hired. Have more options in store in case your plans don’t succeed. By applying to many different places, you have a better chance of obtaining a job.
Do not take care of your personal business when you are at work. Only use your break time unless it is an absolute necessity. Even if your boss is lax on this rule you should not use it. You will gain a great deal of respect by showing that you are able to manage your life appropriately.
On your resume, put some of your social media experience on it. By showing that you’re involved to an extent in social media, you’re making yourself relevant.
Come up with a professional sounding email address when job hunting. Include your full name so that people can easily search for your email, especially if it has your resume attached, when they need to fill a position. You can stop using the email address once you’ve found a job.
When you are applying for jobs, make sure that you have a list of three reliable references prepared for potential employers. Do not add friends or relatives to the list since they may not be aware of your work ethic. Good references include former supervisors, co-workers and your college classmates.
Network within your field. Increasing your network allows you to build excellent professional relationships, increasing your marketability for jobs. Get involved with the industry you choose by attending different seminars, conferences and webinars, as well as any industry networking events. Networking can help you emerge as a leader in your industry.
Older job seekers may benefit by using the functional resume form rather than the chronological resume form. The functional resume lists major experiences and accomplishments right at the top rather than listing all experiences and accomplishments in chronological order. You could create several functional resumes to target different types of jobs.
Make sure you stand out from all the other applicants when you are searching for a job. Arrange an in-person interview if possible rather than simply applying online. Arrive on time and well dressed. Behave in a courteous and professional manner. Be prepared for the interview by learning as much as you can about the company and the position in advance.
A good idea is to network within your business, not only outside of it. Your job isn’t only where you are employed, it’s where you can meet some amazing people who very well may play an integral role in your professional life for years to come! Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Get to know those in and around your office.
Keep an open mind when trying to find a new job. Not only apply for the specific position you are looking for, but jobs that are related to that position as well. You might not end up landing the exact position you were looking for, but it will give you an opportunity to get into a company where you can transfer positions down the road.
It is no understatement to say that trying to find a job in today’s job market can often make even those of us with the lengthiest of resumes feel insecure. But with a clear plan of action and some useful tips under your belt, you stand a much better chance of landing the job you want! We wish you success in your job search.
