Looking for a job but don’t know how to begin? Not a problem.
Crack your knuckles and flex your fingers, we are about to get to work. It is important to be energized and up-beat when searching for a job. Just imagine you are a head-hunter and you have been mandated to find 20 job openings for… well, you!
This approach is great because it allows you review opportunities from an objective angle without the interference of your prejudices or second-guesses. When you have been assigned a task, you are expected to face it with a measure of certainty, right?
Let’s get to it then…
How do your determine the kind of job you need?
Define your target
Hold on; don’t go on a job-search frenzy just yet. First of all, you need to decide the exact kind of job you will like to do. For instance, I am passionate about public relations and I want to have a job as a Public Relations Executive.
Timeline
Timelines are awesome when it comes to staying on track with your plan. How many applications do you want to send per day and, at the latest, when do you want to have your job? Deadlines can be tough to keep especially when there are a lot of external determinants; so ensure to keep it realistic.
Optimize your resources
There are web applications and resources online with which you can build an international-standard resume, explore Of course, you have a network of family, friends and acquaintances are professionals; share your resume with them. It is also important to have an internet enabled device and data for surfing.
Your action plan
How exactly do you intend on getting this job? What is your strategy? Decide what your tactics are going to be daily in getting your desired job. For instance, you can decide to send in unsolicited applications to choice companies on Mondays, apply for advertised positions on Tuesdays and on Wednesdays, reach out to your network to help forward your resume.
Deadlines can be tough to keep especially when there are a lot of external determinants; so ensure to keep it realistic.
More definitively, below are the basics you must cover:
Post your Resume
Sites like Jobberman and MyJobMag allow job seekers upload their details and resumes. This makes it easy for some employers to call for resumes from such sites without necessarily advertising. You can also easily apply for relevant advertised positions on such sites.
Explore your Contacts
Do not underestimate your circle of influence when it comes to referrals and recommendations for jobs. Ensure the people around you are aware of your interests and qualifications per time. Share your CV with them and request politely that they help forward it when and where opportunities that align with your interest arise.
Optimise Social media
Social media provides great opportunities for sharing your skills and connecting with professionals in your field(s) of interest. It doesn’t matter whether it is LinkedIn, Twitter or even Facebook, once you are focused on your quest, you will be able to make beneficial connections.
Build your Network
You have to be intentional about building beneficial relationships with people who are professionals, share similar interests or work in the same industry you aspire to. Be an active part of the Google+ community, join professional sites like LinkedIn, attend relevant workshops, and remember to network and pitch your skills every chance you get. Keep your purpose in mind as you interact, so that your conversations are always as strategic as possible. Create the impression that you are knowledgeable and skilled by sharing insightful information on the platforms you belong.
Consider volunteering
I know part of your ultimate dream is to start making some cool cash right off the bat but you need to consider the fact that volunteering gives you an opportunity to showcase your talent first-hand. Imagine working a few hours for free at the company you’ve always dreamed of, giving your prospective employers the opportunity to see you deliver upfront? It can’t but end well for you.
Do not underestimate your circle of influence when it comes to referrals and recommendations for jobs. Ensure the people around you are aware of your interests and qualifications per time.
Always remember to convey confidence and competence in your correspondence with prospective employers; giving you a position in their organization is a show of faith, cherish it! Now, go get that game-changing job you deserve!.
