March 12, 2016

(Thoughts) Job Hunting Tips


The job hunting process could be a long road, but it's all about how you portray yourself to you and others. It's no different than selling a house. Every client has different tastes and has a list of criteria and preferences they want in their future house.

As I am currently looking for a job, here are my several techniques that I try to continuously maintain during my job hunting process:

1. Never stop updating your resume/LinkedIn.
Everything is going digital nowadays and the "traditional" resume have been changed. Anyone can go on a search engine and type your name in and see what pops up! However, the "modern" resume can be anything, ranging from an online resume, interactive websites, and professional social media networks like LinkedIn. 

LinkedIn is a professional medium to display your experience and connections. But don't use it as a "casual" medium like Facebook. Some folks forget about this critical point: Keep your professional and personal life aside!

2. Your phone needs to have voicemail.
I know how easy it is for any candidates to just send an email and expect follow-up via email. However, have you thought of your smartphones? It's not just for emails and social media.

Nowadays, I expect phone interviews! I find that it is an easy and quick method to chat and test the waters between the candidate and the employer. It also shows how accessible you could be as well. So, if you miss the valuable "call" for an interview, your voicemail is your best bet to redeem yourself.

3. Arm yourself with company knowledge and list of questions.
You must do some research. Employers love knowing that you've actually taken the time to look at what they do, what clients they have and that you want to learn about them. Why would you want to work for them if you haven't even checked them out? They want candidates that are interested in the company and not just for the position.

Make sure you're armed with a few questions. Asking questions are very important! Not having questions may seem like you as a candidate, are not interested in the company. However, don't just ask them questions that can be found on the company website. Ask questions that can help you determine if you would like the job and/or if you can do it well. It's not just about the employer, it's also about you as well!

4. Make sure you have a professional email name.
Let's be honest, "sweetangel356@gmail.com" is really not professional. In this day and age, it's so easy to register for an email! Spend some time and think of your name and available usernames as it's all about your professional image as well. Personally, I prefer shorter the better, but if you can maintain your first and last name in your email, it also helps the employer to remember it easier!

5. Set up job posting subscriptions.
I'm not saying I'm not actively looking for jobs opportunities. I'm referring to using other websites to help me search for my next job opportunity. The internet is filled with so much information and services that can help you! I personally use Indeed.ca. You can easily set up job notifications based on keywords and locations and customize it to your liking! I find these notifications very handy and keeps me on my toes on the next available opportunity!

PS. You can do the same for LinkedIn as well!

6. Never stop learning!
There's so much to do and so much information around us. Never stop learning and improving yourself!

I know the road to getting a job can be tough. I try and send out my resume to a company once a week, but the rejection process can be painful. It's all about the right time and the right place. Good luck and never give up!