5 Tips to Make Your Job Search More Effective

Guest Post by Linda Hildebrant:

Finding the available jobs that you are qualified for is easier than ever before because of the internet and all of the job boards. This means that it is also easy for everyone else that you will be competing with to find those same jobs. For this reason, it is critical that you find ways to make yourself standout from the crowd. Listed below are five tips to make your job search more effective and to help you differentiate yourself from the other job candidates.

1. Write a compelling resume that makes you stand out. Unfortunately, many job candidates don’t think their resume will be one of the deciding factors in whether they get the job interview or not. Because of this, they don’t put much thought into it and don’t take much time to craft one that will really get the attention of an employer. It is critical that you look at numerous resume samples and get lots of feedback from friends and associates that are qualified to give constructive feedback. Once your resume is perfected, be sure to get it posted online where it can be seen by employers looking to find your job skills.
2. Don’t be timid about following up. Most people don’t follow up with employers after sending a resume or even after an interview. Be aggressive in checking back and showing initiative. Oftentimes employers are inundated with great resumes and job applicants. Sometimes the difference in getting the job boils down to being the candidate that followed up just as the hiring manager was deliberating on who to hire.
3. Professional development. When you are looking to enhance your resume with impressive education experience, but do not have the time or money for a degree program, research the different continuing education and professional development programs that are being offered. These provide a great way to learn the latest trends in your industry. They also might be the thing on your resume that makes you stand out above another job finalist.
4. Exploit the power of social media. Social media is a great way to get the word out about your skills and that you are looking for employment. LinkedIn is a great place to begin along with Facebook, Twitter and Google+. Google yourself to see what a recruiter will see when they check out your presence on the Internet. Make sure that you have a positive presence.
5. Networking- capitalize on your sphere of influence. Let’s face it, the most powerful way to differentiate yourself from those competing with you for a job is to come highly recommended from someone working for the company you are interviewing with or at least someone that knows the hiring manager. Networking is one of the best ways to find out about jobs and to be recommended for them.

Although you may not personally know the person hiring, you may know someone who does know them. By utilizing these five tips, you can make your job search more effective. What are some other tips that have helped you in finding a job?

Linda Hildebrant is the Associate Director of Internet Marketing for Resume.com, where you can create and post your resume online. She has several years of experience as a resume coach. When she is not writing about resume tips, she likes to shop and travel.

image via VentureBeat

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