A job search requires much effort on behalf of the job seeker. Planning, researching, and organizing a job search can be frustrating, time-consuming, and draining. Read on to check out our insights on how to efficiently and effectively identify the next role in your career!

1.  Intentions

A successful job search starts by understanding your own career goals and objectives. Creating a list of career goals and prioritizing them from the most important to the least will help you focus on what type of jobs you should research and apply to. Consider subjects such as the company, title, pay, PTO, benefits, perks, and location when planning your career objective.

You should also consider what you are willing to sacrifice should an offer not check all of the boxes on your list.

Your goals will help guide you and keep you focused on what your future role will entail. Try to remember to refer back to this list when applying for a job or considering a job offer.

2.  Organize and plan

Searching for a job can often feel like a full-time job, so implementing a plan of action should keep you in focus and make your search more efficient.

Start by setting aside a specific amount of time each day to dedicate to your job search. Your allotted time should include company research, checking job boards, and networking.

Create a spreadsheet that lists jobs you have applied to, along with a link to the company and application date. Keep notes on conversations and emails. This spreadsheet will help you track your interview progress so that you are fully prepared for any discussions with recruiters or hiring managers.

Job boards offer “job alerts,” which is an excellent tool for job seekers to stay up-to-date with newly posted positions. Job alerts are simple and free to use.

Remember to include networking in your job search each day as it can uncover job opportunities that you would have otherwise not known about. 

3.  Networking

Networking is critical for career growth. Successful networking can help eliminate any rigorous job search as your connections might lead to your next career step.

Meeting with new colleagues from different departments, attending meetups and networking events, or even meeting up with neighbors are all excellent ways to expand your network.

When networking with new people, be sure to share insight, such as your career goals and professional accomplishments. It is important to remember that these relationships are a two-way street, so think of ways your new connection can benefit from your experience and network as well. 

4. Choosing a platform

There are many resume-sharing platforms to choose from, so selecting the best forum for your talent is essential.

Recruiting agencies and employers are selective in which sites they use to view resumes because they must pay a fee for the services. IT professionals should post their resumes on sites such as Dice.com and Indeed.com, as they are often used by companies when seeking talent in the technology field.

5.  LinkedIn as leverage

LinkedIn has become a professional necessity. Many employers and recruiting agencies utilize LinkedIn to post jobs, search for resumes, and get a better idea of candidates they are interviewing. This makes having a completed and active LinkedIn profile critical.

Ensuring your LinkedIn is a reflection of your resume is of utmost importance. If managers notice any significant discrepancies between the two, it might raise a red flag and cost you an interview.

The “about” section on LinkedIn is an opportunity to sell your experience and skills. This section is essentially the “professional summary” that you have on your resume. Employers should decipher what you can add to their team and entice them to read more. This is also a space to include additional keywords and phrases to ensure you show up in searches.

Obtaining recommendations is another excellent way to showcase your skills and abilities. When asking for a recommendation, let the person know what career highlights you want to exemplify on your LinkedIn. Examples include leadership skills, technical knowledge, or your ability to work with a team.

Avoid negative and divisive discussions on LinkedIn as it can deter potential employers from considering your candidacy. 

6.  Social media audit

With today’s social media platforms, opinions are everywhere, and sometimes without personal censorship, this can cost candidates the chance at a job interview.

Expect hiring managers and recruiters to search your social media. The best way to avoid any potential issues with your social media platforms is to make your pages private. Privacy of your pages will allow you to continue posting what you deem appropriate.

While your social media profiles are yours, be sure to think about what a hiring manager might think about your profile picture. Profile pictures do not have to be professional, but they should be tasteful.

7.  Partnering with a recruiter

According to a survey, at least 80% of active jobs are not posted, which is why partnering with a recruiter can prove to be beneficial.

Staffing agencies have access to client information that is not privy to everyone. They recruit for jobs that are not posted on job boards, have detailed information beyond the job description, and have a solid understanding of the company culture. 

Specialized recruiters will also have a vast network of industry-related professionals, market knowledge, and a solid understanding of their chosen field. Partnering with a specialized recruiter can significantly assist in landing your next job.

Learn more about recruiter partnerships here.

DIVERSANT Recruiters

DIVERSANT is the largest minority-owned IT staffing firm in the US. Our recruiters are tenured, knowledgeable, and ready to help you in your next IT career move. Contact us today to connect with one of our many talented recruiters.