Very often job seekers never think of about changing anything in their job search efforts even if they seem to be somewhat unsuccessful. Some of them don't change anything because they don't know what they potentially change while others still believe they are doing the right thing. Well, since we are all not perfect and sometimes make mistakes it is always a good idea to re-evaluate some things and maybe even change it. So let's assume you are a job seeker and let's just imagine that you are like everybody else try to find a decent job using most common methods. Below you will find things that you should do differently from the crowd in order to be more successful in your job search campaign.
Four Practiсal Job Search Tips
Before you even start applying for jobs to understand how employers or recruiters work. If you have anyone you know who works in the role of a recruiter it is best to learn from him/her. Eventually, understanding how they work to hire people will open up new job opportunities. Knowing what things are the most important for the decision-makers will help you focus on those things and present them in the best light. This will distinguish you from the crowd of other candidates. If you don't know anyone in the role of a hiring manager or recruiter then you could learn a lot from the Internet. At least you could learn some of the main principles by which hiring authorities make their decisions.
Secondly, stop spending so much time on job boards. Most people rely on job boards and job postings as they believe they are the main source of job opportunities. However, job boards will unlikely to give you many chances to get an interview invitation (let alone granting a job). The thing is that hiring authorities prefer relying on referrals to fill the openings with candidates. As a matter of fact, companies prefer hiring internal candidates if there is such an opportunity. Even though they create a job opening online they would still stick to hiring an internal candidate which means no one from those applying for the position has realistic chances on being considered. So job boards may not be the most effective source of job opportunities.
Thirdly, incorporate social networks into your job search efforts. No matter how old are you or what your social status is. If you need a job using social media is a must as it is an effective instrument of both creating your professional image and discovering new opportunities. Besides, social networks provide a great opportunity to network as well. Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter - these are great platforms for interacting with prospective employers by commenting, liking, sharing, etc...
Lastly, network the right way. You probably have heard a million times that networking is probably the most effective tool in getting the job. This is true but still, it is underestimated by so many job seekers. So most people either ignore it or do it once in a year. But effective networking is not a one-time event. It is all about building relationships and developing contacts within your field of interest. Yes, it does take time. Yes, it is necessary. And yes, it pays off. So if something doesn't work out, don't quit. Continue networking and we are confident that very soon you will have a great chance to prove you are a great addition to any company.
