Job searches are notoriously time consuming. You can have a standard resume that goes out with all your applications, but each employer wants a unique cover letter that tells them why you’d be perfect for that specific position. Other employers require you to fill out an application form, which is both tedious and time consuming. So how do you maximize your results while minimizing the time you spend actively searching for a new job?
Know What You Want and How to Get There
There are a lot of jobs out there, and when you need to start earning an income ASAP, it can be tempting to apply to everything you qualify for. But that’s not the best approach. You can easily wear yourself out trying to get a job when you should be focusing on getting the right job.
By focusing your efforts on trying to get the job that’s right for you, rather than any old job you might qualify for, you narrow your search significantly. This gives you more time to dedicate to crafting quality applications, which will also increase your chances of getting the job.
Employers hire for more than just qualifications. They want someone who wants to do the job and will be a good fit in their work culture, so be sure to consider all those factors before deciding whether or not to apply to a particular job.
Applying only to the jobs you really want also make it less likely you’ll be back on the job hunt just a few months after landing a job with a company you can’t stand.
Schedule It
Whether you’re employed, unemployed, or partially employed, it’s important to set aside time for your job search. If you’re unemployed, treat it like a job and hold yourself accountable to spend a certain amount of time every day applying to jobs. It doesn’t have to be at the same time every day, but it does have to be scheduled. Depending on your other commitments, scheduling your job hunt for the same time every day might make it easier for you to get down to work as your brain gets used to doing the same task at that time every day.
If you’re employed, you’ll have to schedule time before work, after work, and on your breaks to search for a new job. It might be tempting to use office supplies to apply to jobs or print resumes but that is inadvisable as employers don’t generally respond kindly to finding out their employees are looking for a new job.
Get Organized
Have a folder on your computer dedicated to your job search. Keep all your resumes, cover letters, references, work samples, etc. in that folder so you know exactly where everything is when you need it. Have printed resumes ready to go for when you get called in to that interview.
If you don’t already have an online presence, start building one. Whether that means getting a LinkedIn account and/or an online portfolio, make sure potential employers have a way to find you online and that the information they find is as up to date as possible.
Job hunting is stressful and taxing, but by following these tips, you can make it easier on yourself, as well as increase your chances of landing a job.