Are you looking for a job?
If you don’t answer “GREAT!” then we have some tips to help while you are looking for a job. Basically, it’s a list of things to make sure you are NOT doing.
Don’t Forget to Update Your Resume
You’ve probably done a lot in the last five years (or ten). Even if you weren’t steadily employed, you’ve gained skills and experience that will be attractive to an employer. Start by taking advantage of our Free Professional Resume Critique (you have nothing to lose).
Update your resume regularly and don’t forget to tailor it for each specific job you are applying for.
Don’t Ignore Applicant Tracking Systems
If you don’t know what an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is then stop reading this and go here. And then come back.
So, now you know how to beat an Applicant Tracking System and land an interview. During your job search, keep in mind that your resume is likely to be passed through an ATS, so edit your resume accordingly.
However, the best way to get job is to never have to fill out a job application to begin with. Here’s why.Reasons to Avoid Filling Out Job Applications
Don’t Use a Weird Email Address
Does your email address still reflect your tastes and interests from high school?
ILoveHarryPotter@gmail.com
CatsAreCool@yahoo.com
HockeyFan2010@gmail.com
You get the idea. If this sounds like you, we strongly encourage you to change your email to your name. If your name is taken, you can always put your last name first, add a “.” between your first and last name, add a number that does NOT contain a Zero (it can look like the letter O.)
Just make it more professional. Trust us, it’s important.
Don’t Forget to Network
A successful job search will include spending time both online and in person.
- Use LinkedIn to its fullest potential.
- Contact people and then take it offline to meet with them in person.
- Reach out to your network and let them know you are looking–and what you are looking for.
- Attend job searching networking events.
Basically, don’t spend your entire job search on your computer. That is only part of the story.
Don’t Forget to Follow Up
Once you send somebody your resume, an email or leave them a message–follow up. It’s called a job “search” for a reason. Sometimes you have to hunt people down.
Good follow-up skills can make all the difference in a job search. People get busy and don’t always remember to get back to you–so you have to remind them with a gentle follow up.
Related: Interview Follow-Up: Just Do It!
Need More Help?
Join Our Discussion
For more insights and a community of like-minded professionals join our LinkedIn group Resume Help and Advice for Professionals and Executives.
