Finding a job can take time — you need to do research, update your resume, fill out applications, schedule and attend interviews and even take tests. The current network-driven and highly competitive job market adds another layer of challenges.
But what are some job search strategies? Our list of various job-hunting strategies can help you get noticed, ace those interviews and get you job offers.
1. Know Yourself
Before all else, get to know yourself. Whether you’re still studying, freshly graduated or already in the job market, nothing’s more valuable than knowing yourself and what drives you. Various tools and resources are available to help you during your self-reflection.
For instance, the Myers-Briggs Test Indicator (MBTI) paints a bigger picture of what drives you for your personality type. You can take an MBTI-based test on the 16Personalities site.
2. Define Your Goals
Know what you want by setting clear goals. Is there a specific industry you want to work in? What roles and responsibilities do you want? What do you want to achieve in your career after a period of time? Do you have a specific salary expectation?
Whichever career goal you’ve set, ensure they follow the SMART goal framework so you can measure your progress.
3. Start Early
If you’re nearing graduation, the best time to start job hunting is now. Starting early will give you ample time to prepare and explore opportunities. Take the extra time you have to try the other strategies we’ll mention in this list.
For example, you can start polishing your resume, researching potential employers or honing your interviewing skills. There’s no rush, so you can go into the job searching process with a relaxed and prepared mindset.
4. Use Career Services
If your educational institution has career services, use them. For example, Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) students can receive career advising services to align their academic experience with their career goals.
Career services can encompass many things. They can include reviewing resumes, practicing interviews, building skills and finding internship opportunities. Basically, they can teach you how to prepare for your job search after graduation.
5. Develop Your Online Personal Brand
Today’s online environment demands that applicants have an online “personal brand.” Personal branding doesn’t necessarily mean you need to have a slogan or color palette ready. It is as simple as giving your LinkedIn profile, for example, a facelift.
Ensure your profile is up-to-date and reflects your most recent information, such as skills, accomplishments and experiences. Doing so can help improve your visibility for potential employers. Also, your online profile can help support your resume when recruiters compare the two.
Furthermore, using relevant keywords can further optimize your online presence. Use keywords used in job postings and find a way to incorporate them naturally into your profile and resume.
6. Build Your Network
Networking and word-of-mouth can be valuable assets. Try to build an extensive network of people in your line of interest and beyond! Your network can consist of your fellow students, mentors, former coworkers and professionals in your industry. MWCC’s Career Services offers a variety of opportunities for students to connect with employers on campus. Workforce Wednesdays and job fairs are held throughout the semester.
You can start by connecting with your existing contacts and then reach out to new ones. Find new people through in-person meetups, social platforms, events or job boards. Forging bonds and relationships with the right people can open many doors for you.
7. Embrace Job Search Platforms
The actual job-searching process can be time-consuming. Luckily, in our tech-driven world, there are various online job search platforms — use them to your advantage. Most platforms have built-in features to make job hunting easier.
For instance, there are filters that help narrow down your options according to experience level, salary range and skill set. These filters will save you countless hours of sifting through postings that don’t fit your preferences.
Job alerts are also a passive way to stay informed about new opportunities. Be the first to know when matching roles are available.
8. Attend Job Fairs
Whether in-person or virtual, job fairs are helpful resources. These events are ideal for expanding your network and finding new opportunities. Job fairs can thus enhance your job search strategy, increasing your chances of finding a job.
9. Know Your Worth
Before you start sending applications, research your dream job’s market value. Use resources like Payscale to determine the appropriate salary ranges for your job.
You can dig a little deeper and see what the future holds for your job role through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
10. Research Companies
Get to know your potential employers to gain insights into who they are, what they stand for and what they aim to achieve. Researching companies will ensure you’re best suited for the role and the organization.
11. Tailor Your Documents to the Job
Customize your resume and cover letter per application. This strategy perfectly aligns with the previous one — researching the company. With a rundown of the company and job offering requirements, you can tailor your documents to their specific opening.
And because we want to make job searching easier, we recommend using technology to your advantage. Yes, we’re talking about artificial intelligence (AI). That said, ensure you don’t lie on your resume and try to edit AI-powered answers to be more “human.”
12. Time Your Applications
Imagine it’s late afternoon on a Friday and you’re a recruiter. What are the chances that you’ll open a new application email? Depending on the person, chances might be low. In this case, the early bird might catch the worm.
In other words, try sending your application at a time that will catch a recruiter’s attention. For example, early Monday morning or right after lunch times can be great times.
13. Prepare for Interviews
The interview is a process on its own, with steps before, during and after. Preparation is king. Practice common interview questions, research companies you’re interested in and be ready to articulate how your skills match their needs.
And remember, follow-up emails can make all the difference.
14. Consider Internships or Freelance Work
Gain practical experience through internships or freelance projects to enhance your resume and skills.
15. Utilize Recruitment Agencies
Register with recruitment agencies specializing in your field. They can actively look for opportunities on your behalf while you focus on other tasks.
16. Stay Competitive
Stand out from the crowd and stay updated with your industry’s latest trends and technologies. Stay competitive by attending webinars, taking courses, joining professional associations and reading industry publications.
17. Remain Persistent and Positive
Job hunting can be challenging, so stay persistent and maintain a positive attitude throughout the process.
Job Search FAQs
Do you have other questions? Here are a few frequently asked questions.
How Do You Job Hunt Effectively?
You can effectively job hunt by tailoring your resume and cover letter to each position, networking and applying to jobs that match your skills and interests.
How Do I Maximize My Job Search?
Maximize your job search by using multiple job search platforms, attending industry events and following up on applications and interviews.
How Can I Improve My Career Services?
Improve the career services you receive by actively seeking feedback, attending workshops and career fairs and regularly meeting with your career advisor to discuss your goals and progress.
Start Strong at Mount Wachusett Community College
When you choose to study at Mount Wachusett Community College, you already have an edge. Take advantage of our affordable education, personalized support and robust career advising services.
At MWCC, you can explore various academic programs without the financial burden of a four-year college. Our career services offer tools and resources to help you secure your dream job post-graduation. Here, you’ll see and experience how career services can supercharge your job search.
Start strong and apply at MWCC today and let us help you supercharge your job search!
