Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and discouraged by the job search process? It's time to take control of your job search and discover what it takes to stand out in a crowded job market.
It's easy to get caught up in the idea that a perfect resume is the ticket to your dream job. But what if we told you there's more to it than that? Don't get us wrong, a strong resume is crucial, but it's not the only puzzle piece.
The most successful job seekers know that being proactive and strategic in their approach is the real key to landing the ideal job. Forget aimlessly scrolling through job boards and blasting out generic applications. As Albert Einstein famously said, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results."
The job market is chaotic, and it can feel like finding a job is just a game of chance. But that doesn't mean we should give up hope. By taking a proactive approach to our job search, we can take charge of our destiny and increase our chances of success.
Here are some actionable strategies to take control of your job search:
Clarify your job search goals: Set clear job search goals that align with your skills, experience, and interests. For example, let's say you have several years of experience working in customer service and are interested in finding a job in sales. Your job search goal could be to find a sales representative or account manager position in a company that values customer relationships and offers growth opportunities.
Prioritize your time and resources: Apply to targeted job postings and attend relevant networking events. Customize your application materials, such as your resume and cover letter, to specific roles and industries to increase your chances of getting an interview.
Create a target employer list: Research companies that align with your interests and gain insights into their culture and hiring needs. Understand why the organization would be a fit for you. Focus your networking efforts on building relationships with individuals at these companies to increase your chances of finding a job that matches your desired industry or job function.
Network, network, network: Networking is one of the most effective ways to find a job. Reach out to people you know in your industry or field, attend networking events (in-person and online if possible), and join professional organizations. You never know who a lead on a job might have an opening, and networking can help you tap into the hidden job market.
Ask for referrals: Referrals are a powerful endorsement that can help you get noticed by the employer. When current or former employees recommend a candidate, it suggests that they believe the candidate would be a good fit for the job. Referrals make up 30% of all hires overall, according to research by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).
Have a strong online presence: In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential. Ensure that your online presence is consistent with your resume and highlights your skills and experience in a positive light. Optimize your online profiles with industry-relevant keywords and include work samples demonstrating your skills.
Be open to temp work, volunteer, or take on freelance work: Temporary work, volunteering, or accepting freelance work can help you establish connections, acquire experience, enhance your skills, and widen your professional network. Moreover, it could potentially open doors for future paid job opportunities.
Follow up on applications: After submitting your job application, take the initiative to contact the hiring manager directly. This approach demonstrates your proactivity as a candidate and enthusiasm for the role. It may help hiring managers form a positive view of you as a candidate and makes a lasting impression.
Finding the right job takes time and effort, but don't give up. By being proactive and taking these practical steps, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job. Good luck!
Are you a Veteran, military spouse, or transitioning service member interested in learning more or getting individualized job search assistance? Please email us at careercoach@eseal.org.
Michael Robinson is a Career Coach at Easterseals Veteran Staffing Network (VSN), where he assists Veterans, military spouses, and transitioning service members in achieving their employment goals. With over 10 years of experience, Michael has held various roles, including hiring manager, corporate recruiter, and career counselor. Before joining VSN, he worked as a Department of Labor Transition Assistance Program (DOL TAP) Facilitator, where he helped military service members and their spouses navigate the military-to-civilian transition process.
