Everywhere you turn on the internet there are lists of things you should or shouldn’t be doing to maximize your online job search. Some advice is good, and some is not so good. How do you determine the best ways to job hunt on line? Here are 5 things we think you should be focusing on while searching for your next job.
- Schedule yourself. You need to make time to job hunt. Look at it as your current full time position. Searching for a job is not the most enjoyable thing you will ever do so it is easy to put it off; but jobs come and go quickly in the internet age. Set aside time each day to work on your resume, update your online profiles, and send your information to companies and job openings. You may want to set your alarm each morning, get your shower, and get dressed as though you are going to an office. This will help put you in the right frame of mind. Be sure to schedule breaks as well so you stay fresh throughout the day.
- Be professional. A sure fire way to get your resume or application ignored is to use an unprofessional email. Recruiters see this all the time and are not likely to reach out to someone who uses “ilovemycat” at email dot com. Email accounts are free with Google, Yahoo, or Hotmail. Set up a new one using some version of your given name. By the same token, make sure your voice mail message is also professional and states your name and encourages the caller to leave a message. Cute messages sometimes cause a recruiter or hiring manager to hang up without leaving a voice mail.
- Keywords. The first thing that a recruiter or hiring manager will look for on your resume is a match for the job function they need. Make sure that when submit your information online update your resume to reflect the job for which you are applying. If you want to be an office administrator make sure your resume has office related words. If the recruiter sees a resume full of sales or accounting they are less likely to contact you.
- Network. Build your online job network. The best source for this is LinkedIn. Fill out your profile so it is 100% complete. Add a photo and take off any of the personal information such as your birthdate and relationship status. Edit your headline from the default to something that will catch a recruiter’s eye. Join groups that relate to your industry or your interests. Ask for recommendations by your current and former coworkers.
- Be persistent. When you apply for a job, feel free to follow up. At the same time, don’t be overly aggressive. When you follow up ask them where they are in the process and when you might expect to hear from them. Then allow that process to happen. If you don’t hear back after following up it is time to move on to the next possibility.
Are you looking for an organization that can help you manage your job search? Contact CornerStone Staffing Today!
