Be proactive to ensure you stay ahead of the game!
When it comes to finding a job, one of the greatest lessons that I have learned is to try not be reactive. Don’t wait until something tragic happens or you become stagnate in your company. Always keep one eye on the job market and get into consideration for opportunities on a frequent basis.
Networking
Make a list of 10-15 companies that you are interested in working for. Review your leads, contacts and LinkedIn connections and make a list of jobs or companies you want to apply to or where you might know someone. Reach out to recruiters and hiring managers. For 30 minutes a day, send messages to or call recruiters that you need to know and try to build relationships with them. Search for relevant LinkedIn groups that you can become a member of. Then, contribute to group conversations and review who’s viewed your profile for contact leads.
Research public networking events in your area and attend them! Below are some popular websites to help you get started. Meet new people and share your background and skills! It has been said that 75% of all hires are made based on recommendation. Strengthen your professional network!
https://www.meetup.com/
https://www.eventbrite.com/
https://www.facebook.com/events/
Set your targets — with your list of 10-15 companies you want to work for, even if they aren’t hiring, you can start networking. Track down the contact information of the person who would be doing the hiring or who would be the boss for the type of position you want. Google and LinkedIn will be your best friends for this task.
Before completing applications be sure to update your professional documents!
Résumé
Update your résumé and be sure to tailor it to the specific job description that you are applying to. Review job postings and set up alerts for relevant positions. Save only the positions you will actually apply to. Don’t waste time on jobs you don’t want.
Have your résumé reviewed by a Recruiter, Résumé Writer or Career Coach.
Cover Letter
Work on customizing the letter to target each of the jobs on the list you complied. Send them by mail, email and through completing online job applications. The Cover Letter should be well targeted to the positions; it is better to send out 5-10 well targeted cover letters than it is to send out 100 generalized cover letters.
Professional References
When is the last time you updated your list of references? Create a professional document that includes the Name, Title, Company, and contact information of those that can speak positively on your behalf. This list should be compiled of at least 5 professionals, ideally those that have served as a your supervisor.
Update your LinkedIn profile to ensure that it is in line with your résumé. Your résumé and LinkedIn should mirror each other, to some degree. You don’t want red flags popping up with competing information between your resume and LinkedIn profile.
If you are searching for assistance with updating your professional documents or need career coaching assistance, please visit us at redlineresume.com/services to find out more! Or, schedule a free consultation now!
