Looking for a new job can take some time, making it important to try different methods to speed up the process. By using job-hunting strategies, you can continue to progress in your career and move on to better opportunities.
Networking
By expanding your professional network, you are opening yourself up to new career opportunities. You may find that when you have more professional connections, more people can recommend you to a new position. Even using your professional network for career advice can help you become a more qualified candidate. Use your connections as a resource to further develop as a professional.
Online Job Boards
What was once a corkboard in your local library has expanded to a vast network of job opportunities. Now that most job postings are digital, it’s much easier to find the type of job you’re looking for. You can use keywords to search for your intended job title. Likewise, many online job boards allow you to share your resume and cover letter directly with an employer.
Recruiters
Many companies use staffing agencies to fill their vacant positions. That’s why working with a recruiter or headhunter can be quite helpful for your job search. After you have an initial meeting with them, they connect you to jobs within your purview. Keep in mind that recruiters work on a commission, so make sure you can negotiate a fair wage and benefits plan before accepting a job offer.
Referrals
Some companies use employee referrals to hire new staff. That’s because they trust their own employees’ opinions, and it can help streamline the hiring process. Although employee referrals aren’t all that common, it may be worth asking a trusted friend if their company has any opportunities. If you both think you’d be a good fit for a position at their place of employment, they could recommend you. Along with helping a friend out, employees who give good referrals tend to get a nice finder’s fee.
Job fairs
Job fairs are an excellent way to learn about many companies at once. Colleges, universities and companies often host job fairs. They are often organized by industry, although some have companies across many job sectors. Prior to attending a job fair, research the employers that will be there. Learn about what kind of candidates they are looking for and what job openings they have. Bring a bunch of printed resumes and business cards to hand out. Be prepared to have a mini interview with every recruiter you speak with. Afterward, follow up with an email.
Company websites
Some companies choose to keep their job postings on their website. It’s worth doing an internet search of companies within your industry to begin looking at their websites. Before filling out your application, get to know who they are, what they do, and who their clients are. Knowing all this information shows you’re serious about wanting a job opportunity from them.
Calling
Although this method tends to be less effective, you could choose to reach out to a company directly even if they have no current job postings. You could either call directly or send an email inquiring about any possible positions they may have. As email continues to become a common form of communication, this tends to be the more appropriate option. In your email, share a little bit about yourself and why you are interested in their company. Attach an updated version of your resume and a link to your portfolio, if applicable.
Internships
If you are inexperienced, starting with an internship is a great way to build your resume and create professional connections. With some internships, you may have the opportunity to transition into a full-time role. If this is the case, make sure to put in your best effort through the course of your internship. Try to prove that you are the right person for a full-time job offer. You can do this by asking smart questions, offering to take on a new project and taking on more responsibilities as you get more comfortable with your work.
Volunteering
Volunteering at an organization is one way to increase your chances of getting a job there. This is especially true for nonprofits that may not currently have the funds to hire you right now. If they see you as a hard worker and someone integral to the organization, you may be more qualified when a paying job does open up. Even if you can’t get a job there, having volunteer experience looks good on a resume, expands your network and helps you learn more about roles you may want to pursue.
Reference: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/job-hunting
