A successful job search requires organization, preparation, diligence and perseverance. Whether you are laid off and desperately trying to get back into the workforce or a current employee looking for a change of scenery, the job search can be a long, drawn-out process with plenty of frustration. Check out the following five tips for job-seeker success to ensure your job search goes as smoothly as possible.
1. Keep Your Resume Up to Date
Always keep an electronic copy of your resume on file, and update it when you receive a promotion, gain new duties, switch employers or earn a new certification. If you are suddenly laid off, this reduces some stress by letting you get right to the job search. When an unexpected opportunity for a career move presents itself, you can quickly tweak your resume, tailor it to the job posting and fire it off to the potential employer.
2. Separate Your Professional Life From Your Personal Life
Consider creating an email address specifically for job search correspondence. Only use your personal email address if the name is resume-appropriate; names such as SexyKitten@aol.com and BeerGuzzler@hotmail.com are not likely to impress hiring managers. Make sure the outgoing message on your voice mail sounds professional, or sign up for an inexpensive voice mail service specifically for messages from potential employers.
3. Line Up Your References
Do not wait until the hiring manager asks to start gathering references. As soon as you begin your job search, ask co-workers, previous supervisors, former college professors and personal acquaintances if you can list them as employment references. Make sure the contact information is accurate and up to date so it is ready to turn over to the potential employer upon request. These people may also be able to refer you to job openings or employers of interest.
4. Make Use of Mobile Job Searches
In this age of modern technology, mobile job searches make it easy to find career opportunities on the go. Download a few job search apps, or check out some career websites designed for mobile use. To streamline the mobile job search process, upload your cover letter and resume to the cloud so they are easily accessible when you find an exciting opportunity.
5. Take Advantage of Social Media
Make sure your social media profile is professional and clear of anything you do not want potential employers to see. Use Facebook to share interesting articles about your industry, and follow top employers on Twitter. Use LinkedIn to network with other professionals in your desired industry and learn about job openings.
Even if you are not currently looking for a new job, it is likely you may find yourself seeking a new position in the future. To ensure a smooth job search, always keep your resume updated. Make use of new technology, including mobile job searches and social media, to discover unique opportunities and network with others in the industry. Following these tips for job-seeker success may lead you to the career of your dreams.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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