Searching for a job can be a daunting and overwhelming task at any time. Clearly, with lots of layoffs and graduations happening right now, there’s a lot going on out there in the job market. With the right approach and strategies, you can increase your chances of finding the right opportunity that aligns with your interests, skills and goals. I’m here to offer valuable tips and techniques to help you navigate the job search journey and land your first, or 7^th, job that can set you up for your next career move.

My clients benefit from our initial work to do a deep dive to understand them and their particular needs and wishes. While this takes a bit of time and some precious introspection, it’s worth it. 

Doing a job search on your own can definitely work for you! But I do know from personal experience that having a trusted third party to talk all of this through with is invaluable. It’s so helpful to have someone to help you to hear yourself without their (you know those well-meaning friends or family members) biases and ideas interfering in your process.

All that said, here we go:

1. Self-Reflection and Goal Setting 

Before diving into the job search process, take the time to reflect on times you’ve been most engaged at work or elsewhere. Investigate what you truly important to you – what your needs and requirements are, and what a successful career needs to look like for you. Understand what you’re looking for in a job and know what you can bring to the table. It’s easy for insecurities to arise – you know, those fears about what you don’t have in your toolkit, but don’t go there! Keep pushing through! Your self-reflection will serve as a solid foundation for your job search strategy and help you focus your efforts on opportunities that truly matter to you.

1. Polish Your Resume and Cover Letter 

Crafting a compelling and clear resume and cover letter is crucial in grabbing the attention of potential employers. When new clients present their resumes to me I can easily see how we’ll need to rework them so they can move forward and get the response they want from potential employers. There are so many potholes to fall into! If you aren’t appropriately tailoring your resume to highlight relevant skills that match the job requirements then you’ll be easily dismissed. And while we don’t know for sure that anyone will read your cover letter, writing one that conveys your passion for the role and insights into how you can contribute to the company, you’ll miss a valuable chance to shine. Ensure that both documents are error-free, concise, and well-formatted.

1. Leverage Online Job Platform 

Utilize online job platforms, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, or industry-specific websites (workformother.com, Idealist.org, angel.co) to search for job openings. Use LinkedIn Premium – even for a short time if you can. It helps with visibility and information. Create comprehensive profiles and optimize with relevant keywords and skills to increase your visibility to recruiters. Set up job alerts to receive notifications for new opportunities that match your criteria. Join relevant groups, and engage in conversations to expand your connections. But don’t overlook going directly to company websites. You never know what else will show up!

1. Tap into Your Network 

You’ve heard it a million times…people are more likely to find a job from a friend, or weak connection, than through other means. But I get it…It’s the rare person who feels comfortable asking for advice or suggestions from others when they’re feeling vulnerable in a job search. I’ve helped even the most introverted clients reach out to their network of friends, colleagues, and acquaintances to re-connect. Share what you love to do, what you’re interested in finding, and see what your conversations open up! And be brave. My clients have had success meeting people at industry events, professional networking events, sitting on planes talking to their row mates, and at weddings! Hidden job opportunities can be found…so be prepared for these conversations.

1. Prepare for Interviews

Once you’ve got an interview lined up, thorough preparation is key. I regularly practice common (and uncommon) interview questions with clients to help them prepare thoughtful responses while staying composed and authentic. This is your opportunity to show enthusiasm, highlight skills with relevant examples, and ask relevant questions. I love prepping clients because their comfort level increases as does their confidence when they finally meet with interviewers.

1. Follow Up 

After an interview, send a customized thank-you note or email to express your appreciation for the opportunity to meet. This gesture shows your professionalism and interest in the position. If you haven’t heard back within the given timeframe, follow up to inquire about the status of the process. This demonstrates your proactive attitude and eagerness for the position.

Yes. The job search takes time. Probably more time than you expect.

If this job search process feels overwhelming and frustrating, try to remember that this is what it is…For everyone. A job search takes time. Be prepared for a few months for the right opportunity to come together. In the meantime, do whatever you can to stay positive, physically and emotionally healthy, and in a learning and creative mode so that you have things to share with others, and activities that keep you buoyed and vibrant. 

As always, I’m here to help you, your friends and loved ones. I have lots and lots of success stories. Honestly, most people wish they’d started working with me months before we got started together. You don’t have to do this job search alone.