Are you currently looking for a new job? If you haven’t been on the job market in a while, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start your search. There are thousands of resources at your disposal and it can be difficult to filter through all of the advice and “words of wisdom” out there.
Maybe you are currently in between jobs or maybe you’re just taking advantage of this hot job market with the lowest unemployment rate in 17 years. Whether you’re a passive or active candidate, here are four tips to effectively begin your search for a new job.
Update your resume
The first step to a successful job search is to update your resume. You need to ensure your resume is properly formatted, easy to read, and includes your most relevant experience.
You should definitely tailor your resume to each job you apply for. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t start updating it! This is especially crucial if you haven’t updated your resume in a while. You easily add your current contact information, address (depending on where the job is located), past or current job roles, and any recent certifications you may have completed.
Update your LinkedIn profile
Now that your resume is polished, it’s time to tackle that LinkedIn profile. If your LinkedIn profile is already up to date with your most recent position, then kudos to you!
If your LinkedIn profile needs some love (or if you don’t have one at all), it’s time to get it in working condition. Both employers and recruiters use LinkedIn to find and evaluate candidates for open positions. In fact, 93% of recruiters and human resource professionals check out candidates’ social media profiles (including LinkedIn) before extending a job offer.
Thus, if you are not on LinkedIn, you are already at a disadvantage in this crazy job market. And it’s not good enough to just have a LinkedIn profile; you must have it completely updated and optimized! It only takes you about 30 minutes to do so, and trust me, it will be the best half-an-hour you spend for your job search.
Check out our guide to efficiently leverage your LinkedIn profile to find your next job.
Pro tip: Make sure you have LinkedIn’s feature called “Open to New Opportunities” turned on so recruiters know you’re interested in new positions!
Check out job listings/job boards
Once your resume and LinkedIn profile are in good shape, you’re ready to start searching for open positions. The easiest way to do this is to monitor job boards. This is easier than ever with mobile apps for your phone or email alerts. Now you can sign up for app and email notifications that alert you when a job matching your qualifications and specifications.
All you have to do is check out job boards such as Glassdoor, Indeed, CareerBuilder, LinkedIn, and of course, JSG’s job board. You can even join our Talent Network that will enhance your job search and application process. You’ll receive alerts with new job opportunities that match your interests and be ahead of the game!
Partner with a recruiter
If you really want to step up your job hunt, you can partner with a recruiter. Recruiters have excellent relationships with hiring managers and human resources. They can use these connections to help pivot you to the top of the list of applicants.
When you partner with JSG, you become your biggest advocate. We assist you throughout the hiring process and help you find your next career opportunity that matches your unique skills. Learn more about our recruiting process and why you should partner with JSG.
