Do you need to speed up your job search? How long have you been at it?
How long should the average job search take, anyway? A couple of weeks? A couple of months? A year?
There is no good answer for this, but in the increasingly “instant gratification” culture we live in, the most accurate answer is “too long” no matter how long it actually takes. At least we can all agree that six to nine months can feel like an eternity.
So, let’s speed up your job search with these top tips.
Only Apply For Jobs You Really Want
More is not better in this case and, quite frankly, a waste of your precious time. Get very specific about the type of company and the kind of job you want. At what level do you want to start? What values are important to you? What kind of culture? Benefits?
Make a list of “Must Haves” for your next job and don’t apply for those that don’t meet the criteria.
A word of caution: Be realistic about your “must haves.” They have to be achievable based on your level of education and experience. If you have entry level experience you probably won’t be hired as a senior executive with a corner office. You do have to work your way up. However, if a short commute and stock options are important to you, go after those jobs.
Salaries and benefits can be negotiated, but set a low end range for yourself that you are not willing to go below and stick to it.
Related: Negotiating a Job Offer (or anything else you want)
Create a Winning Resume
Online templates don’t work. Old styles are, well…OLD. Most companies and Hiring Managers are using some form of resume screening technology like an Applicant Tracking System. Your resume (and cover letter) need to be specifically formatted and include industry specific terminology.
The best way to speed up your job search when it comes to your resume is to get professional help with it. Unless you are applying for a professional resume writer position, chances are you aren’t a professional resume writer. Makes sense, huh?
Let a professional critique your resume FOR FREE and help you rewrite it so it grabs the attention of the next person who sees it.
Related: 5 Reasons to Hire a Professional Resume Writer
Rethink Your Cover Letter Strategy
Your cover letter should NEVER be a recap of your resume. Instead, use it as a way to make yourself stand out from all the other candidates. Let your personality show. Prove you’ve done your research about the company. Explain why the company’s culture appeals to you. Tell a compelling and memorable story about you as the perfect candidate.
Related: How to Use the Job Posting to Write the Perfect Cover Letter
How to Speed Up Your Job Search: Wrap Up
Actively looking for a new job is a job! It takes time and effort and can be frustrating and daunting. Don’t give up and keep your eye on the prize: A career you love.
Remember that you aren’t in it alone. Seek out the help of professionals who can help you such as, Resume Writers, Job Coaches, Mentors, and Career Experts. You’ve got this. Keep at it!
Happy Career Hunting! We are here for you!
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