Tips for an effective job search

Once you’re in a job search, you realize how big of an endeavor that actually is. We shouldn’t be putting it down. Truth be told, job search is a big thing that determines the course of your life and it should be treated that way. Like any other endeavor in life, it works best if you dedicate enough time to it and develop a solid plan. In this article, we’ll cover some of the best tips on effective job search.

Where do I begin?

If you’re wondering where to begin with your job search, you’re not the only one! We often get asked this particular question. Reasons as to why it’s confusing are different for different people. Some have been employed for too long and don’t remember what’s it like to look for a job. Others just can’t organize themselves or they simply don’t have time to focus on it. But, the truth is, if you have a clear path of what you need to do, your job search will be effective!

Tip #1 – Identify your next move

When you’re new to the job market, your first step should be identifying your next move. This means you will have to take some time and find out where you want to take your career. If you want an effective job search, it has to be focused. Meaning, you need to know exactly what you want to do.

Tip #2 – Customize your CV

We’ve talked about this one before. Surely you’ve noticed if you’ve read our other posts. It is absolutely crucial for you to tailor your CV to the job ad you’re applying to. If you want to have an effective job search, this is a must. Today, it’s easier than ever to write a high-quality CV – just follow our professional step-by-step CV writing guide that you can order here.

Tip #3 – Write a cover letter

Another thing that we’ve often talked about is the importance of cover letters. We only mention it so often because it’s really important to understand it. Writing a cover letter can either make or break you as a candidate. So, if your goal is an effective job search, you better submit a cover letter with each application!

Tip #4 – Use all available resources

When it comes to job search, you need to think outside the box.

Post your CV on every single job board you can think of, follow job fairy Facebook pages, connect with recruitment agencies on LinkedIn, and spruce up your LinkedIn profile and make it clear you’re on a job hunt.

Don’t forget to use your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn connections and see if they can help you.

All of the above will lead to a fast and effective job search for sure!

Tip #5 – Set a goal

One of the best ways to have an effective job search is by setting daily personal goals. You’ve probably heard this one before in other areas of life. Well, it works in job searches, too!

These goals should be something like this:

• The number of applications you sent that day
• The amount of career-related content you consumed that day
• The number of people you’ve connected with that day
• The number of companies you’ve researched that day

Of course, it all depends on what you want to do next and how fast you have to get another job.

Tip #6 – Keep track of your applications

If you’re actively looking for a job, it means you’ll apply to loads of positions. The best way to keep everything organized and effective is to keep accurate records of all your applications. An ordinary spreadsheet will suffice.

Just make sure to capture the following:

• Date of application – so you know how many days it took the recruiter to reply
• Job title – so you’re fully aware of what’s expected of you
• Platform where you applied – so you don’t apply for the same role on 2 different platforms
• CV you submitted – so you know which one to read through before the interview (because you should have several versions of your CV!)
• The cover letter you submitted – first, whether you did submit it or not, and then which one was it (because you should have several versions of it, one for each job ad)

Tip #7 – Send follow-up emails

Another important thing that contributes to an effective job search is following up. If the job poster is disclosed and you have the option of reaching out to them, definitely do it. We’d recommend waiting for 2 weeks before you do so, just so you don’t seem too eager. Plus, they probably have loads of applications.

You should also send a follow-up email if you did an interview and no one has gotten in touch for a few days. Remember, you’ve got nothing to lose and much to gain.

Tip #8 – Reach out to professionals

If you’ve followed all these tips and you still have no results, maybe you should talk to a career expert. Or just have your CV checked for quality. You never know, it could literally change your life! Linking Lines offers a free CV analysis so don’t hesitate to reach out if you feel it’s needed.

Remember, there’s nothing wrong with getting help when you need it. Sometimes, we can’t do everything on our own, and if your goal is an effective job search, find a way to achieve it!

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