7 Tips When Looking for a New Job

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Finding a new job is one of the most daunting tasks. There are so many unknowns and so much work to do. It’s intimidating! Here are my tips for finding a new job. 

1. Network. 

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Ask anyone and everyone for help. Let anyone and everyone know you’re available and looking for a new job. Put yourself out there! I’ve found that business isn’t always 100% business. Personal relationships go a lot way. Whether it’s the university you went to, a family friend, or someone you met at a bar, don’t shy away from using your relationships. And don’t count anyone out.

2. Indeed and LinkedIn.

My favorite site to use to find a job is Indeed.com. I like the filters and find it very user friendly. I’ve found most of my jobs here. However, I think LinkedIn is becoming a larger player in the job search. Make sure your profile is updated. Don’t be afraid to ask people for recommendations or endorsements. Use your LinkedIn profile to include things that might be a little too lengthy for your resumé. Chances are good that your future employer will check your LinkedIn profile.

LinkedIn is also a great way to network and find out who you need to network with. If you have a friend or acquaintance that works for the company you’re interested in, reach out. Same goes for if you want to reach out to someone that you have a mutual connection with. Ask for an introduction! Always be professional and polite. And say thank you! Even if you’re sending a message to an HR employee at the company of your dreams.

3. Perfect the resumé. 

Make sure your resumé is the best it can be. Ask people to look it over and give you suggestions. Work with a recruiter to give feedback. I’d even recommend having a few versions of your resumé especially if you’re in a position to do a variety of jobs. Tailor your resumé to the job description (but not too obviously). Just use a few keywords that you find to be pertinent that you really want to hone in on in your skill set.

4. Brush up on your interview skills. 

Interviewing takes practice. For most people, it’s really hard to talk about yourself. If you’re anything like me, you might find you feel like you’re coming off too cocky. Get used to it. Practice selling yourself. If you have a partner or a friend willing to do mock interviews, take them up on it. Have them ask you practice questions until your answers sound like they come naturally to you (but not too rehearsed).

The other way is to actually go on interviews. You can never predict the random questions and array of personalities you’ll get in an interview. Agree to a few interviews you might not be as interested in to get some practice under your belt. Don’t go overboard but a few here and there can’t hurt. Plus, you might find something actually seems like a better fit once you’re there.

5. Do your research. 

Finding a job is like finding your next boyfriend. Note that I didn’t say husband. Jobs aren’t permanent but you do want to spend a few years at them if possible. Do your research. Ask the right questions, pay attention to how people talk about the company in the interview, and check their Glassdoor reviews ahead of time. Make sure the company has what you’re looking for and what is most important to you. Whether it’s flexibility, compensation, opportunities for growth, a great team, etc. Make sure you’re setting yourself up for success.

6. Prep your questions. 

Along the lines of doing your research, make sure to come to an interview with questions. Make sure you have 3-5 really good ones that will impress your interviewers. Also take the opportunity to make them think or to let them know you’re serious about the job. Here are some of my favorites:

• What do you find to be the most exciting/challenging things about working here?
• Do you have any concerns about my ability to perform this role?
• What is the most difficult thing this role will have to overcome?
• How would you describe the company culture?
• What kind of growth opportunities do you see for this role?

7. Use a recruiter. 

I’m hesitant to add this one to my list but in some instances, you might have to use a recruiter. If you’re not having much luck or are moving cross country and don’t have connections in the area, this is when you might need help. Recruiters have a lot of pros and some cons too. They have a way into some of the best companies and also can help you tell the story. However, they reduce your negotiation power and might not always have your best interest at heart. They’re just doing their job!

Do you have any tips for finding a new job? Are you looking for a new job? Share below!