Finding a job is a full-time pursuit, and it’s even harder when you’re just starting your career fresh out of college. But the keys to kickstarting your career are building a job search strategy, networking the right way along with mastering your online presence, application, and interview, experts say. Sound intimidating? We break down 5 easy, digestible steps to supercharge your career search.
Make a list
Look into the companies you admire and would like to work for, instead of just searching for open positions anywhere. Starting your search this way can help you narrow down the jobs you wish to apply to and makes your search that much more targeted.
Schedule it
After you know where you want to apply, organize your application process and schedule when to submit your resume for each opening. Break it down into something more manageable by making a list of job searching tasks you must finish each day.
Use your network
Sending out an application may not be enough to land that coveted job. Instead, consider if you know someone who can help you get a leg up. For instance, ask new or existing connections what events they have attended recently. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and never discount how someone may be able to assist.
Be specific
When talking to people in your network, be specific about what you want to know. For example, explain what you want to do, where you want to work and ask if that person has contact at the company you’re looking at. It’s much easier for someone to respond to a specific request than “can you help me find a job?”.
Follow up
Your job hunt isn’t over after you submit your application. It’s ok to check in with your potential employer one or two weeks after sending in your resume to get an update. Following up in a respectful, professional way ensures that you stay top of mind while continuing to express your interest in the position.
Source: yahoo.com