How to Start a Job Search

How to Start a Job Search

When you decide that it’s time for a new job, you might think that heading to a job board and looking for opportunities is the best way to begin. In reality, that is never the case. Instead, there are a few things you need to do before you start that part of the journey.

With a bit of preparation, you essentially increase your odds of success. If you want to get headed in the right direction, here are some best practices for starting a job search.

Create a Brag Sheet

Generally speaking, when you answer questions during an interview or discuss your experience on your resume, you want to be achievement-focused. That strategy helps showcase not just what you can do but the results you’re able to deliver.

In it’s uncommon for job seekers to struggle a bit when it comes to remembering their accomplishments. That’s why you should take a moment to create a brag sheet. Essentially, you’ll write up a reference document that outlines all of your achievements. Then, when you need to prepare an example for an interview or update your resume, you can turn to it for ideas.

Write a Master Resume

When you apply for a job opening, you’ll want to customize your application to address the must-haves and other details outlined in the vacancy announcement. Often, that process is cumbersome if you essentially revamp your resume every time.

Fortunately, you can streamline these updates by writing a master resume before you launch your job search. With a master resume, you include every potentially relevant achievement, skill, and detail regardless of how long your resume ends up. Then, when you find an opening you want to apply for, you remove anything that isn’t overly pertinent and reorder the points to align them with the job description.

Update Your LinkedIn Profile

If you haven’t updated your LinkedIn profile recently, it’s best to handle that before you start applying for jobs. By getting it ready in advance, you can use it to apply for roles on the platform or put a link on your resume so hiring managers can find supplemental information fast.

Before you begin, consider heading to your settings and making sure that sharing profile edits is turned off. If you’re working and current colleagues or managers are part of your network, a bunch of edit notifications might let them know you’re about to hunt for a new position. By switching that option off, those alerts don’t happen, making the process more discreet.

After that, update the content as needed. Add new skills and achievements, revamp your headline and summary, and otherwise, make sure you showcase yourself in the best light.

Figure Out Your Target

Job searching can quickly become cumbersome, particularly if you don’t know what you’re after in a new role. Before you start exploring openings, reflect a bit on your needs and preferences. Decide what skills you want to use in your new position and determine if there’s anything you’d like to avoid. Then, create a list of possible target jobs, giving you some initial direction.

Partner with a Recruiter

Once you’ve handled everything above, it’s time to partner with a recruiter. By connecting with a leading recruitment agency, you’ll have an ally that can help you navigate the job market and find great matches. Plus, they can give you tips to improve your resume and interview skills, ensuring you’re in the best position to land an offer.

If you’re ready for a new job opportunity, the team at GSG Talent Solutions wants to hear from you. Contact us today.

Categories

Ready To Hire?

Ready To Get Hired?

Want More Information?