Graduating soon? Parents cutting your allowance? Unhappy with your current job? There are many factors that push one into the abyss of job searching and it can be downright stressful at times. Check out these valuable tips to dig you out.
DO understand yourself first.
The last thing you want to do is waste your time applying for jobs you don’t even want. It is crucial to understand what you want to do prior to the job hunting process. Creating a list of your strengths, weaknesses, skills, values, goals and interests will certainly help you to know yourself.
DO a good amount of research for the company(ies) you are applying to.
Why apply for a company you know nothing about? Look up what the organization does, what products/services they offer, their mission, reputation, competitors and current performance. The research will benefit your interview as well.
DON’T forget to tailor your resume and cover letter to the job description.
Hiring managers and recruiters look through hundreds and maybe thousands of resumes every day. If you tailor your resume and cover letter to the listed position, you will definitely seem like the perfect match! So how do you tailor your resume to the job description? Think about how you add value to the listed qualifications, then include relevant skills, accomplishments and experiences. Make sure your resume fits in one page and has no grammatical errors.
DO try your best to apply through a recruiter.
Even though recruiters and hiring managers look through a massive amount of resumes and applications daily, there are probably 10 times more applications being submitted online. This means that you will have a better chance scoring an interview if you apply or simply hand your resume to a recruiter.
DO utilize LinkedIn as a networking tool.
Be a millennial and take advantage of social media, you’re already doing it anyway. You can find any company and most of their employees on LinkedIn these days. If you play your cards right on LinkedIn, you can certainly be connected with any recruiter or hiring manager you want. For example, let’s say you really want to work for X company but their hiring and selection process is highly competitive. Want to stand out from the crowd? Turn to LinkedIn and search the company. On the right-hand side of your screen, there is a section that says “How You’re Connected”. There should be a bolded number for second-degree connections. Click on the bolded number and try to find someone who works as a recruiter, hiring manager or is on the talent acquisition team. Then kindly ask your shared connection if he/she can connect you to the employee.
DO prep well for the interview.
I’m not a fan of buying new clothes for an interview simply because I like to feel like myself and make sure I’m comfortable. No matter what job position you are applying for, have a response prepared for the question “tell me about yourself.” Make sure you are not rambling for more than 90 seconds. Stating interests and hobbies shows personality but also keep it professional and relevant to the position as much as possible. Also be sure to bring a vault full of stories to answer behavioral questions. Another great tool for preparing for interview questions is going on glassdoor.com.
DON’T be late, show up at least 10 minutes early.
Show up on time the latest and plan your routes prior to the interview.
DO bring two extra copies of your resume.
This can be beneficial for you when the interviewer is asking you to walk them through your resume.
DON’T forget to turn your phone into silent mode.
Well duh.
DO accept water or coffee if offered.
Having something in your hands actually calms your nerves and holding filled cup is way better than clicking a pen or playing on your cell phone. Plus, it’s a good idea to hydrate yourself so you can speak perfectly without a dry mouth.
DO keep in mind that the job search is not about you.
Yes, I know you need a job, I know you need money but trust me… If you adopt the mindset that your job search is about the hiring manager, you will absolutely ace that interview. Don’t depend on previous job titles, current accomplishments and employee referrals to make a good impression. You will seem more favorable candidate when you prove how you can solve their current problems, if you can do it efficiently and if you will fit in with the rest of the team.
DON’T feel shy to ask questions.
If you misheard or misunderstood an interview question, don’t be shy to ask them to repeat or rephrase it. Asking questions makes the interview more conversational. Do have at least two questions to ask the interviewer at the end. Some examples of good questions to ask are “How has your experience been working for this company?” and “Why is there an opening for this job position?” These questions allow you to get to know the company as well. Whatever you do, DO NOT ask about salary and benefits.
DO follow up with a thank you note.
Either send an email or a handwritten note to the person or people who interviewed you within 24 hours. Thank them for their time and make it personal by saying something specific about the interview. This step is optional but certainly critical if you want to stand out from other applicants.