With all the buzz about new job-search technology it’s easy to overlook some sound, timeless tips for job searching. It doesn’t matter if it’s writing a cover letter that gets past an applicant tracking system, or getting to know the people who run the companies you’d like to work for, these simple yet effective strategies can make all the difference in landing your next job.
Begin by defining your career objectives and the kind of work environment you would like to be in. Then, align your goals with the kinds of jobs you’re looking for in order to narrow down your search. Once you’ve narrowed your search to specific jobs, do your research on every company. Utilize tools like Crunchbase to get an overview of the company, its size as well as its funding history and information on its leadership. You can also find out about mergers and investments and more. This can help you understand the an overview of the market landscape and will help you answer the right questions during an interview.
Make a network that can assist you in finding your ideal job. This includes current and former managers, coworkers and customers, as well as friends and acquaintances. When interacting with people in your network, be specific about why you’re contacting them and how they can help you.
Set goals, and ensure that your applications, networking activities and follow-ups organized. This means that you’ll have a clear idea of what you need to do every week. Don’t be scared to try something new or modify your plan if you feel that it’s not working.