Job-Hunting Tips

Looking for a new job can take up quite a bit of time. Here are some tips that can help you streamline your search.

Update your résumé

Your résumé is often the first impression you give to recruiters and hiring managers. Make sure all your information is up-to-date and you’ve included your most recent responsibilities, accomplishments, and position. Check for errors and formatting and, if possible, have someone read through for typos.

Tailor your documents

Your résumé and cover letter should be specific to each job description. This doesn’t mean starting from scratch for every application, but you should tweak your résumé and cover letter to highlight relevant skills, responsibilities, and accomplishments. You may want to have a few versions of your résumé and cover letter that you can quickly tailor to a job description.

Network

The more people you know, the more likely you are to hear about new career opportunities early. Your contacts might even recommend you for a position. If you’re not sure where to start, try attending industry events and conferences, or reaching out to friends and acquaintances.

Consider referrals

Some companies offer employees the opportunity (and sometimes an incentive) to refer candidates for open jobs. Having a personal connection can also make you more likely to get an interview because an existing employee is vouching for you and your skillset. If a friend or acquaintance works at a company that has a referral system and relevant open jobs, it may be worth asking if they’d be willing to pass along your resume.

Have a tracker

For every job you apply to, document the date you applied, a link to the job description, if/when you hear back, and any other relevant details. This way, when you’re called in for an interview, you don’t have to scramble to find the specifics—you’ll be able to reference the job description and documents you provided right away. Having a tracker also lets you know how many jobs you’ve applied for and gauge how long, on average, it takes employers to get back to you.

Prep for the interview

When you’re called in for an interview, know who you’re meeting with and when. If your interview is over video conferencing, make sure you have the software installed beforehand. If it’s in person, make sure you know where to go and have your clothes picked out. Research the company, reread the job description, remember your accomplishments and be ready to speak about them—having good stories can help you answer interview questions and stand out from other candidates. If you’re nervous, going over common interview questions and practicing your answers can help build confidence.

Evaluating an offer

Once you get to the offer stage, take some time to celebrate! Remember, you don’t have to sign right away. Ask questions, evaluate (and potentially negotiate) the salary and vacation time. Look over the benefits package and see what’s available for health insurance, dental, vision, and life insurance (remember, your group life policy is different from your individual policy, like whole life insurance). Ask about any other perks, such as remote working, flexible hours, and employee discount programs.

Source: iQuanti