Looking for a new job can be a time-consuming task. Often it is a tedious process, so who wants to spend longer on it than necessary? The good news is there are many small things you can do that typically pay big dividends when it comes to job searching or changing your career, both online and in real life. And all of these effective yet easy job search tips will take just minutes of your valuable time.
1. Set up job search alerts
Don’t waste time searching the internet for jobs. Let the jobs come to you.
Set up daily email alerts to find out about new jobs matching your criteria as soon as they become available. All the major Australian online job search boards (e.g. Seek, My Career and CareerOne), large employers and most specialist sites will email you the latest jobs posted online.
Use keywords to narrow your search: specify location, job title and even the company you hope to join to filter out unwanted information.
You can also set up a Google alert to monitor companies you are interested in working for and alert you to when they post new job openings. This option can also provide you with background information about potential employers that you can use to tailor your resume and cover letter to particular roles.
2. Upload your resume online
It’s not just job seekers who use online job search sites and networking sites. Employers also use them to find suitable candidates that are a good match for their job openings.
If you upload a well-written resume, you have a strong chance of being noticed. It’s important to include specific keywords to stand out in searches. Employers use these job board databases to search for specific keywords that relate to job vacancies to find the most suitable candidates. Remember to tailor your resume to each employer’s or job board’s instructions.
It is better not to post your resume anonymously as this can put employers off, but be careful if you’re employed as you risk your current employer discovering your resume.
3. Use LinkedIn headlines to announce your job search
Does your LinkedIn headline read: ‘[Insert role] Professional’? This may be true but it is not much use to your job search. Any employer or recruiter conducting a candidate search who reads that headline will think you’re happy in your job so won’t get in touch.
If you’re unemployed, or your employer knows you are looking to move on, write a headline that states clearly that you’re searching for a new job and what you’re looking for. It doesn’t need to be clever, just something like: ‘Looking for a [Insert profession] position’.
And remember to let your contacts know, via direct messaging, that you are looking for a new role. Send them a short message such as:
“Hi XX. I’m looking for the next challenge in my career, and want to use my XX skills to help a [specific industry] organisation [achieve particular goals XX]. Ideally I’d like to find a role in XX [area of expertise] as a [ideal role]. I’m hoping you can help me identify opportunities or introduce me to anyone you think could help in finding such a role. Please could you let me know any opportunities or connections you think might be suitable. Thanks for your help.”
4. Organise your job search
Create a spreadsheet of employers to document who you’ve contacted, the dates of contact and the names of the people with whom you’ve spoken. It is an easy way to stay organised and avoid applying for the same job twice. Create a job application tracking system that works for you and is easy to access and update. Looking for a new role or career change can take time, so it’s important to maintain your record system and remember what you’ve applied for.
You can also use it to follow up your application if you have not had any responses from an employer within a few days.
5. Get a professional email address
Don’t use your ‘party’ or humorous email address for job searching. Get a simple, professional email address that will create a good impression with a potential employer.
There are many email providers and setting up a new email address is a quick and simple process.
6. Connect via social media
If there are particular companies you would like to work for, connect with them via their Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn company profiles.
It is becoming increasingly common for employers to post a ‘We are hiring!’ status solely via their social media channels. You don’t want to miss these opportunities. Some companies have even set up profiles for the specific purpose of posting job vacancies.
7. Don’t waste your time
Even if you are desperate to find a new job, resist applying for jobs for which you are not qualified. It is just wasting your time and efforts. Applying for a job for which you do not meet the requirements will only annoy the person who has to sort through all the applications. It will also be disheartening for you when you receive a rejection or, worse, hear nothing at all about your application.
8. Be positive
The job market is tough right now. It is natural to feel discouraged if your job search or career change is taking longer than you hoped. It can be especially hard to stay positive if the decision to change roles wasn’t yours but as a result of redundancy or a forced exit. But avoid letting negative feelings take over. The most persistent and optimistic candidates have the best chances of landing a new position.
Employers want upbeat team players, so be positive and stand out in job interviews. Put your attitude on display with a smile and an optimistic outlook.
Want some more easy job search tips?
These are just a few quick and easy job search tips to boost your search. Talk to your outplacement services consultant or find out more about career coaching to support you in finding your next role.