Finding a job is a difficult art to master. To stand out from the other candidates, you need to think outside of the box. With all the tips on how to find a job and then prepare for a job interview it is easy to get lost. Don’t panic! We have got everything you need to know to stand out against other candidates.
Follow these 6 job hunting tips that will distinguish you from other candidates and help you land your dream job:
- Know what type of work you want to do
Before starting your job search, take the time to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses and the type of work you enjoy doing. The better you know yourself, the more likely you will find a new job that provides you with greater satisfaction. What do you want in a job? What is most important; a title, the earnings, a promotion, the work itself, the location, or the company culture?
- Update resume and cover letter
If one of your application materials does not show that you are the perfect person for the job, do not be afraid to modify your keywords, rearrange your bullet points, and adjust your job responsibilities and achievements. Use their flexibility to your advantage and make yourself stand out during your job search. Your cover letter should be specially tailored to the position, as this is your chance to express your enthusiasm for the role and line up your biggest accomplishments with the responsibilities of the job you are applying for.
- Prepare for job interviews
Before you get called for your first interview, develop responses for common interview questions, and practice them — ideally using the mock-interviewing technique with a friend, network contact, or interview coach. The more prepared you are for the interview, the more comfortable you will be – and the more likely you will succeed.
- Keep investing in yourself
While you are looking for a job, you can invest some of your time in improving your skills. You can take an online course, do some volunteer work, or do an internship related to the position/industry you are trying to get into. This will not only be a great way to expand your network of contacts, but it will also give you something new to add to your resume, and that is always a plus.
- Be kind to yourself
Looking for a job can be stressful. So, take some time to meditate, exercise, watch a movie or do any activity that helps you unwind. Create a good support system. Having people to brainstorm with or to vent your frustrations will help the process be less stressful.
- Celebrate (small) successes
Every small step taken in your job hunt can be seen as a success:
- Applying for the job; you took the decision to go for it.
- Getting the interview; you get to talk to Human Resources and show who you really are.
- Getting the second interview: you get to talk to more people within the organization.
- Signing your contract!
Even if you do not get your dream job, you got yourself out there and you got to talk to people in the recruitment industry, do not give up hope and definitely do not forget to celebrate every small step within your job-hunting process.