Most people have never been taught how to find a job. However, research shows that the average worker only spends 4 years in a job — and you may have as many as 12-15 jobs over the course of your career! Millennials are predicted to have even more jobs during the span of their working years because they are more likely to leave unsatisfactory jobs quicker.
Here are 10 tips to help elevate your job search.
- Start with the end in mind. Take the time to think about what kind of job you really want to target. What is the job title and what does that title encompass? Many jobs are titled vaguely compared to their actual functional roles. What industry are you interested in and what specific companies would you want to work at in that industry? If your ideal job was available right now, how would you describe it?
- Take time to organize your job search. So many jobseekers just jump in without a plan and feel overwhelmed or defeated when results do not happen immediately. Outline a strategy and then use your plan to create a weekly list of activities. Create a schedule for your job search activities that defines what you want to complete each day. Check off your list. Be prepared to rearrange your schedule when an interview or networking opportunity comes up!
- Get your LinkedIn Profile in great shape. Update your picture to a professional headshot and write an engaging summary to catch the attention of employers. Research contacts that would be beneficial in your job search and start making connections.
- Set aside a workspace for your job search. Designate a specific area that is free of distractions to use when conducting your job search. Having a defined work area keeps you organized and focused.
- Devote sufficient time to your job search. The more time and energy you devote to your job search, and the more aggressively you network, the faster your job search will proceed. If you are not currently working, commit yourself to a minimum of 40 hours per week devoted to your search campaign. Getting a job is a job! If you are currently working, devote 15-20 hours per week at a minimum.
- There will be ups and downs on the job search path. Recognize that your motivation is going to increase and decrease, depending on the success (or lack of success) you are having in reaching your job search goal. Reward yourself for effort along the way.
- Gather your support team to help you. Let your family and friends know that you are actively seeking new opportunities - without raising red flags at your current position. Use the services offered by your city, county, or state employment office. Contact your university alumni association. Hire a résumé writer and/or career coach to help you focus your job search.
- Stay at your current job or if you are unemployed - start volunteering. It can be easier to get a job if you have a job (even if the job isn’t related to the job you want). Employers sometimes see hiring someone who is unemployed as “riskier” than hiring someone who is already working. If you are unemployed, consider volunteering. Volunteer service can be as valuable as paid work experience.
- Get on the move! If you are having difficulty finding a job in your area, consider whether relocation would be a viable option. After conducting research, decide if moving to another city, state, or region would improve your chances of getting hired.
- Stay positive and enthusiastic! Hiring managers/companies like to hire potential employees who are excited and enthusiastic about working, ready to dig in to their new job, and who are proactive. Good luck!
Call me to schedule a free consult to discuss your career direction!
Kara Varner, MAOM, CPRW
719-339-2659
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