How To Make Your Job Search More Productive
January 16th, 2012
This is the second part of our three-part series, How to Survive a Job Search.
You’ve jumpstarted your job search, reached out to your network, and set a schedule for Operation: Find Job. But now it’s becoming more and more difficult to stay motivated. After all, relentlessly surfing the web for your next great opportunity can get old — fast. Breathe a little life into your search by following these mantras:
Don’t Apply to Everything You See…
Quality is better than quantity when it comes to job searching – especially when applying online. You’re much better off spending your time thoughtfully applying to a few positions than blasting out your resume to every open opportunity out there. You should have a general idea of what kind of job you’re looking for. Only apply to the positions that meet your needs. If you’re not sure what kind of position is right for you, ask yourself these questions.
Remember that each application should be tailored to the company and position you’re applying for. That means there might be certain achievements and skills you list on one application that you don’t call out in another. It shows you’re truly interested in working for the company.
…But Remain Open To New Opportunities
If you find yourself stuck in a job hunt rut, ABR Employment offers a free online resource called ABR Job Connect that uses your interests to find the best opportunity for you. There might be a new career out there that fits your skills and personality perfectly, but you’ve never really considered it.
Most companies list communication skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work with a team and solve problems as the most important qualities a candidate must have for any position. Think about how your past experiences can translate to a new field. Read more about how ABR Job Connect works.
Use Your Time to Better Yourself…
Don’t feel guilty spending your scheduled job search time on something other than applications. Instead of mindlessly surfing the web, try reading up on your industry, searching a company’s social media presence for insight, or brushing up on your interview skills. When you do land an interview, that knowledge will help you in a big way.
ABR Job Connectalso offers a free comprehensive resume review and a library filled with articles and webinars. A quick fix on your resume or a tweak to your interview etiquette may be all that’s holding you back from landing that job offer.
…But Don’t Lose Focus
Your number one priority is to find a job. Applications must be sent out constantly if you hope to land an interview. Don’t wait for a job to fall in your lap – it’s never going to. But proactively applying and networking will bring results. Search. Apply. Repeat. Stay productive and strong and your job search will come to an end before you know it.
Next week, we’ll feature Part 3 of this series on How to Survive a Job Search.