Looking for a new job can be an overwhelming task. There are a few steps that can make this process a little easier and less intimidating. These steps include knowing what you want for your next job, refining your resume to target specific positions and companies, networking, and proper preparation for your interview.
Do Your Homework
Start by creating a checklist of what you are looking for in the new and career. Really think about what you want. It will guide you towards the jobs you want to apply for. After researching what jobs fit that criteria, you can begin to clean up your resume. Make sure you search the companies as well as a position since finding a company that fits is just as important. Start by looking up their online sites, this will help get an idea of what the job will entail and the temperature of the company. You can research commonly asked questions in an interview and prepare an answer as well as get a salary range. The more prepared you are, the better off you will be.
Bolster Your Resume
Before the interview you have to get their attention with your resume. Resumes are the key to getting an interview. They help companies begin to paint the picture of who you are and what you are able to bring to the company. Including your education, career and job experience, as well as a timeline of your experiences is vital. There is an endless variety of formats to use when preparing a resume. One suggestion to make your resume stand out is to have an achievement-oriented resume with achievements that are related to the job you are applying for. Look at the words listed in the posting, particularly the responsibilities and skills. Human resources managers look at the phrases and keywords on your resume to match.
Network, Network, Network
Networking is the next step in your job seeking process. You need to utilize all of your connections. Having a pool of people that know you and want to help you with job leads is essential to you having success—support is everything. If you know someone that works for a company you are interested in joining, reach out to them. Ask for a referral because it never hurts to ask. Hiring managers prefer to hire those how are recommended by an employee, rather than sift through the piles of resumes coming their way. In addition to utilizing people you know in person, you can use online resources like LinkedIn to help in your search.
Prepare and Practice
Finally, the day comes for the interview. You have done your research, your resume is ready, you have an idea of the questions the interviewer will ask. Now practice your answers with someone, even if it’s with yourself in front of the mirror. The better prepared, the more comfortable you will be. Include examples and specific stories highlighting your experience and skills. Once you finish the interview, follow up with a thank you card. Express your interest in the position and how you are a fit with the employer and the job. While it may not land you the job, it will definitely leave a memorable impression to help you stand out.
Good luck out there!
