Attempting to find a job in today’s job market may seem like a confusing and frustrating endeavor. However, it is not impossible to secure employment if you know where to look and how to approach an employer about a job opportunity. Having a basic understanding of business networking combined with an insight into the minds of recruiters can increase your odds of finding a job this year.
It’s All About Who You Know
Your business contacts can be an invaluable resource when it comes to finding a job. Generally, employers only want to work with people who they know. Therefore, your odds of finding a job are significantly higher if you apply to companies where you have someone who can vouch for you. The hiring manager will hold you in higher standing if a trusted employee has recommended you.
Where Do You Find These Contacts?
There are opportunities for networking wherever you are. When you are at a restaurant, don’t hesitate to start a conversation with someone in line at the buffet. If you are at a sporting event, a casual conversation about the two teams playing in the game can evolve into a business conversation. Other great ideas for expanding your network of business contacts include the use of social media as well as attending professional networking events. These events are organized by local companies as well as government agencies.
Recruiters Use Social Media To Find Qualified Job Candidates
The Internet has revolutionized the way that companies look for qualified job candidates. While submitting a resume is still the most common way to apply for a job, recruiters are looking to social media as a way to indicate their interest in you for a current or future job opening. It is to your advantage to develop relationships with as many recruiters as possible. Doing so increases the odds that you will be contacted about a job offer without having to apply for the job.
Maintain A Constant Online Presence
It is a good idea to develop and maintain a personal website throughout your career. Your website can list previous accomplishments and links to your Twitter and Facebook account. Adding a blog to your website is a great way to express your own views and opinions about current events in your industry. Your website is the best way to maintain your visibility while you are currently unemployed. Combined with a social media presence, a website can be a great way to network with others while having the freedom to show off your own personal style.
Make Sure That You Are Always Perceived As A Professional
Anything that you wouldn’t say to your own mother should never be posted online. Your personal Facebook account will be seen by any employer who shows an interest in hiring you. A Google search will also be performed to see if there are any negative quotes, videos or pictures attributable to you. Therefore, make sure that you never say anything bad about a former employer or post pictures that show you in a less than professional light. In the electronic age, there isn’t as much of a buffer between what you do in your personal life and how it affects your professional life.
Don’t Just Sit Around While Unemployed
Not having a job does not mean that you are entitled to sit around all day. There are myriad of things that you can be doing to improve your odds of finding a job. Volunteering can be a great way to help people while developing your business and professional skills. Starting an online business shows that you are willing to create your own opportunities. When you sit around doing nothing, you allow for a gap in your resume. This gap can be a detriment to your ability to find future work.
Looking for work today is much different than looking for work 20 years ago. While many of the basic principles for finding a job are the same, the tools used to do so are much different. The job search is about much more than just submitting a resume and hoping for the best. Instead, you have to take an active role in promoting yourself while making sure that your professional network is extensive and always expanding.