At some point in your professional career, you’ll inevitably find yourself looking for a new job. Of course, not every job hunt is the same. Casually looking for a new role is a very different experience than seeking your first job after college. It’s also very different from bouncing back and job hunting if you’ve lost your job, or are switching fields. However, each job-hunting scenario comes with a certain level of uncertainty, and each is time-consuming. If you think you may be in the market for a new role, you’re probably wondering how to find a new job.
The best approach to a job hunt might be different for each professional, and each field. That being said, there are a few tried and tested tips for simplifying your search. There are also a few creative ideas if you want to try something different.
Consider using these tips if you're wondering about the best way to find a new job:
1. Reach out to your network.
Using your professional network is easily one of the best ways to find a new job. It can also be one of the simplest ways to get a new role. Start by reaching out to those closest to you in your circle. Let them know you’re looking for a job and which fields you’re interested in. Ask for referrals or introductions. Ideally, some of your connections will be able to refer you to a specific job or company. High-value networking connections may even be hiring in your field! But even if your network can’t directly offer you a job, remember to seek out informational interviews, and any tips they can provide to make your job search smoother and less stressful.
2. Revamp your personal brand.
Giving your personal brand a once-over before starting your job hunt will ensure the process goes smoothly. For most young professionals, your personal brand exists almost entirely online. Revamping your brand probably involves updating your LinkedIn heading, description, and skills. Consider writing a short personal statement that encompasses your professional goals, your experience, and what makes you unique. You can then use that statement when revamping your website, and any other online profiles you might have. This virtual spring cleaning is essential, particularly if you’re hoping to switch industries or have a specific role in mind. Updating descriptions of each of your previous roles will allow you to focus on the skills or experiences most relevant to your job search, while carefully crafting your personal headline will make it easier for recruiters and potential employers to find you.
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3. Put LinkedIn to work!
If you’re trying to find a new job, don’t discount the magic of LinkedIn. Once you’ve spruced up your LinkedIn profile, update your settings to let recruiters know you’re actively looking for new opportunities. You might even want to make a public post about what you’re looking for! You’d be surprised how quickly those types of messages gain traction on the platform. LinkedIn is also great for doing cold outreach. Identify a few professionals working in your dream job or field, and ask them for their tips and advice. Informational interviews are always a good idea!
4. Find an internship.
If finding your next full-time job doesn’t seem within reach at this stage, consider applying for an internship. Whether for a few weeks or a few months, an internship in your field is a great way to gain experience and make the job search easier. Many companies give first dibs on entry-level positions to former interns. Others want you to have at least a bit of experience in the field before hiring you full-time. Internships are a particularly good idea if you’re making a mid-career industry shift, or if you’re lacking professional experience before applying to your first job.
5. Get creative!
By now, we’ve all seen the creative lengths people have gone to when trying to snag their dream job. Instagram posts geared at the social media platform’s hiring team, TikTok application videos, or viral Tweets with Spotify-themed resumes. Not only are these creative outlets a fun experience, but they might just get you noticed by the right people, especially if you're looking for a role in a creative field.
6. Stay positive.
While focusing on the positives might be easier said than done, it’s one of the most important things to do as you navigate how to find a new job. Consider the endless opportunities available to you, and think about your top skills and the value you’ll add to a new organization. Have you wanted to change careers? Relocate to a new city? Think about how your experience will help move you forward. The job market is highly competitive and it can be disheartening if you start getting rejections. Focus on the positives and remember that any job you don't get wasn't right for you anyway!
7. Focus on the future.
In addition to staying positive, it’s important to stay focused on your next steps, and how you can make the most out of your job search. Set out clear goals, make to-do lists, and set deadlines, whatever will help you stay motivated and focused on the future. Staying future-focused can also be beneficial when you’re in interviews for new jobs. When explaining to your hiring manager what you did in your previous role, remember to link this experience to where you’d like to go next using your new goals, and how their role can help you get there.
8. Learn a new skill.
The interim time between jobs is an excellent opportunity to pick up a new skill! Whether you’ve been thinking about making a career change or advancing in your own field, nothing enhances your application like adding some key technical abilities. Consider the skills that differentiate you from those who currently hold your dream position, and pick a few to master. Not only will learning a new skill keep you motivated and active, but it’ll also ensure your resume is in peak condition for the job search itself.
9. Revamp your resume.
Of course, one of the most obvious tips for bouncing back when finding a new job is updating your application materials. Depending on how long you were in your former position, a lot may have changed since the last time you fired off your resume to a hiring manager. If you are laid off, it’s time to make sure your CV, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile are up to date. Consider asking friends and mentors to read through your materials, and make sure to cater each one to specific roles.
