Top Tips to Finding a Job

Finding a job can be hard and stressful in a challenging economic environment. It can be particularly difficult for new graduates, recent immigrants, or someone looking to change careers.

Here are some tips that can help you in finding a job.

Resume

When you start your job search you need to update your resume to include your most recent job. You can use a coach or professional resume writer to assist you with the format and making improvements. Resume writers will know what recruiters are looking for and how to make your resume appear more desirable to them. However, you should always have an up-to-date resume in preparation of an unexpected job opportunity coming along.

Interview Skills

Updating your interview skills is needed in order to make a good impression and to get the job you desire. First, you need to make a list of both the common and the unusual interview questions. Afterwards you need to plan out your answers, and find someone to do a mock interview with to practice your answers out loud. You should do multiple mock interviews to help you get more comfortable with the process. For an interview you should always be early, presentable, give a firm handshake, eye contact, and cut back on the amount of times you say "umm".

Thank You Letters

After an interview you should always send a thank you letter. This can increase your chances of being remembered by the interviewer and getting the job. This can also increase your chances of having the interviewer respond to let you know if the position has already been filled.

Social Media

Using social media to assist in your job search has become essential in today’s labour market. The more commonly used sites are Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter. If you don’t already have a profile, you should create one on all of these sites and any others that you feel will assist you in your job search. If you already have a profile, you should update your online resume, change your status to looking for a job, and start tweeting. Personal branding can dramatically improve your chances of getting a job.

Networking

Networking is important for meeting new people, getting the word out that you are looking for a job, and ultimately getting the job. Networking can be done through social media, emailing or calling people that you know, going to networking events, and making new contacts. Making connections with people that may be able to help you in your job search can allow you to get referrals and to tap into the hidden job market. Networking is important to do continuously and not just when you are looking for a job.

Focus your Job Search

Before you start your job search you need to narrow down what kind of job you are looking for by focusing your job search. This may be more difficult for new graduates or for individuals who want to make a career change. Research can be done on different fields and positions that you are interested in.

Career Centers

If you are a new graduate, a recent immigrant, or changing careers, going to a career center can be beneficial. They can help you in writing your resume, improving your skills, and making sure that you are on the right track in your career. They can give you valuable insight and guidance into finding that perfect job.

Job Boards

In order to find the right job you need to use multiple job boards in your job search. All job boards will have an assortment of different jobs. Many job boards will also allow you to upload your resume to an internal database that employers can view.

Recruiting Firms

Using multiple recruiting firms can help you in your job search. Recruiting firms specialize in matching the right candidate with the right employer. They will also have valuable insight into how the labour market is doing and the types of jobs that are out there.

Job Fairs

Going to multiple job fairs can increase your chances of getting a job. Make sure to go to job fairs that offer the types of jobs that you are looking for. Before going to a job fair you need to make sure that you are prepared by learning what exhibitors will be attending, and the types of positions that they are looking to fill. You may want to do some research on each of the companies that you are interested in, and even make a cover letter for each of these companies. Also, make sure to bring plenty of resumes and business cards.

Co-op/Internship

Co-op placements and internships are a great way to gain some experience, and to try different roles to determine what fields you are interested in. Co-op placements are done by students through a school program. Alternatively, internships are typically done by both students and new graduates during the summer. They aren’t always connected to a school program, and can be either paid or unpaid. Additionally, volunteering can also be done to develop your skills, and to avoid having any time gaps on your resume.

Education

Human capital is a valued commodity. Taking additional courses or going back to school can increase your chances of getting the job you want. It may also be necessary if you want to change your career. Some workplaces offer to reimburse some or all of your tuition fees. If you work for such a company, you should take advantage. This will help you to advance in your current workplace and to increase your chances of getting the next job you want.

Conclusion

Make sure to always have an up-to-date resume and to continuously improve your skills. Also, ensure that you are regularly utilizing social media and any networking opportunities.

Good luck on finding your perfect job!