Job searching, like life, could use a few shortcuts, too. Who wouldn’t want to cut time off the laborious process of trying to find your next move, and get a job offer a little faster? Well, job hunting involves more than searching for open positions and sending your resume to employers. You also need to make sure you’re a good fit for the job, can catch the hiring manager’s attention and are well-prepared to answer interview questions.
Here are seven things we think everyone should be doing to shave time and stress off their job search.
Apply with confidence.
Apply for jobs you are interested in even if you only meet some of their requirements. Depending on the position, employers might hire motivated individuals who learn quickly and provide them with skills training on the job. If you meet a portion of a job’s qualifications but believe you can still succeed in that role, apply. Include examples of your work ethic and ability to learn new skills in your resume. Emphasize how your goals align with those of the company.
Copy the Keywords
Want to make sure your resume gets past the applicant tracking software recruiters use, and into the hands of the hiring manager? Use appropriate keywords in your resume and cover letter. How do you know which keywords to use? That’s easy: They’re right there in the job description. If they’re looking for someone to “manage the sales pipeline” and target “Fortune 500 companies” make sure you use those same words in your own materials. And while you’re at it, pick some lively verbs to impress the humans who, you know, actually read your resume.
Get an edge with a cover letter
Not all job ads require a cover letter, but including one gives you an edge. Your cover letter gives you an additional opportunity to provide those precious keywords. Because you’ll be using a cover letter for every job you apply for, you should make a template and customize the messaging. This way you can tailor them for different employers and save time on your applications.
Customize your resume.
Adapt your resume to each job you apply for. Study the job description to determine why you are a great fit. Then, add your skills, experience and measurable achievements that are relevant to that position. Hiring managers who look through many resumes should be able to read yours and quickly know you have the skills for the position.
Simplify this step by having templates of your resume and cover letter ready to customize. Keep key sections such as your education and contact information the same, but personalize your abilities or past job duties to fit the job you are applying for.
Take the resume upload shortcut
If you ever have to choose between filling out an online application or uploading a resume, it’s in your best interest to upload the resume. Your resume will look how you want it to instead of getting lost in the online application format, which could yield some negative results. Also, this saves time.
Keep a job interview cheat sheet
This is one of the easy job search tips to overlook. Take 20 minutes to write down everything that you’ve accomplished during your time at different jobs. This is your job interview cheat sheet. You never know when you’ll need to hustle to the phone or computer for an interview.
Keep this bullet-point list on file, and it will be ready to go whenever you need it. It will be easier to recall your successes if they’re already typed out and ready to go.
Research companies.
As you find job listings that interest you, research the hiring companies before applying. This can provide you with information about their company culture, benefits and salary range, products and services and work environment. Your research will tell you whether you want to or are qualified to work for that company. It also gives you valuable information you can reference in your cover letter or interview.
Help headhunters find you
Set up and optimize your account on LinkedIn. When you upload your resume and make it visible to recruiters, it would be accessible to them. Who knows, you could receive a message from a recruiter even without applying. This happens often.
Network regularly.
Interact with people and develop professional contacts both online and in person. Start conversations with people at seminars, social events or appointments. Let them know you’re looking for a job or want to work in a certain industry. They might have connections or advice that can help you in your job search. You might also discover unlisted job openings or people might recommend you for future opportunities.
Succeed in your current job.
If you are currently employed and looking for a better or different career, continue to perform your current job with positivity and commitment. Maintain good relationships with your coworkers and managers as long as you’re working with them. Your professional attitude and efforts can result in job references or opportunities in the future.
In conclusion, if you are just entering the workforce or starting a new career, you might need more training or experience to get a job. Consider getting an internship or volunteering with an organization in your desired industry while applying for jobs. Use these opportunities to expand your network of contacts or advance to a full-time position.
My name is Chigozie Japhet. I am a content writer, and a brand strategist. I like writing, reading, researching and watching football, especially my team, Man United. i believe in working hard, and also in relaxation as all work without play, makes Chigozie a dull boy.
