Have you recently found yourself hunting for a new job? Whether you’re ready for a different challenge or looking to relocate, finding a new job can be stressful. The good news is I’ve recently gone through this process myself and have five tips to help you during your hunt.
1. Update your LinkedIn profile.
First things first: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date because prospective employers will check it out if they’re considering you as a candidate. The beauty of LinkedIn is that you can add as much information as you like. Volunteer experience and contributions to local organizations are two important sections to include.
Before you make any updates, change the privacy settings so that profile updates aren’t shared. Updating your profile can be a warning sign to your employer that you’re looking to leave, which can cause unwanted or unnecessary stress at your current workplace.
2. Update your resume.
I found it easier to start with LinkedIn and write out everything I’ve done. Then, take that information and tailor your resume to each job you apply for. You shouldn’t add everything you’ve ever done to each resume; make sure you select experiences and achievements that speak to each position you apply for. Speaking of achievements, don’t be shy about bragging on your resume. Showcase tangible results you’ve achieved and include numbers and statistics if you can.
The biggest piece of advice I can give when it comes to updating your resume is PROOFREAD. Then, give it to someone else to proofread — preferably a mentor who will provide suggestions to make it better. It’s never a bad idea to have multiple people proofread because one typo can get your resume tossed in the trash.
3. Prepare references and ask for LinkedIn recommendations.
As you get deeper in the job search process, you might be asked to provide references. It’s a good idea to have these prepared well before you are asked. Who makes a good reference? Not your mother, no matter how special and wonderful she thinks you are. A good reference could be a past supervisor (so make sure to never burn a bridge), a fellow colleague or even an old college professor. Once you know who you would like to enlist, ask if they are willing to be a reference. If they agree, it’s a good idea to give them a heads up on the positions you are applying for so they aren’t caught off guard if contacted.
Sometimes a prospective employer won’t ask for references, but they will review your LinkedIn profile. So, it’s a good idea to ask your references to leave you a recommendation on your LinkedIn profile as well. Recommendations will stand out when your profile is being reviewed.
4. Network, network, network!
One of the best ways to find out who is hiring is to network. It can be tough competition out there, and sometimes all you need to score an interview is to have someone on the inside mention your name. Attend local events, perhaps ones held by local professionals (*cough, Ad 2 Madison, cough*), and make some connections.
I’d also suggest researching the people who work at the companies you’re interested in. You’d be surprised how many connections you might have that work at that company. Whether it’s a college classmate or a friend of a friend, even the smallest connection can help move your job search in a positive direction.
5. Use job sites.
There are a ton of great job sites out there to use during your hunt. And, for many of those sites, you can upload your resume and have jobs you qualify for sent to your inbox. Some of my personal favorites are Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter, and Indeed.
The job hunt is stressful, but if you work hard, you will find yourself with a job interview. Preparing for a job interview takes as much work as landing an interview. But, have no fear, I have some insights to share with you on this topic too. Check back soon for my next post!
