There’s a common trend among unsuccessful job seekers. 9 times out of 10, they’ve spent all of their time searching for jobs on their computer. They’ve scrolled through hundreds and hundreds of job ads and electronically applied for more positions than they’re able to keep track of.
While the Internet is obviously a crucial resource for job seekers, searching online should never be your only strategy. Limiting yourself unnecessarily is simply not an effective use of your time.
There are a number of ways to balance out your job search and increase your chances of securing a position. Let’s look at a few options.
Network regularly
It goes without saying that the more people you know, the better off you are when it comes to finding a new job. Take some time to reach out to the people in your network that might have leads for you. Even though a professional acquaintance, friend or colleague isn’t likely to be able to get you a job that you aren’t qualified for, they’ll probably be in a position to put in a good word and ensure that your resume gets noticed.
Don’t forget to follow-up
One of the biggest mistakes that job seekers make is forgetting to follow-up with prospective employers. You never want to come across as annoying or overly persistent, yet it is highly important to stay in touch with your professional contacts during this crucial time. If you submitted an application and haven’t heard back in a few weeks, get in touch with the company and make an inquiry. If someone in your professional network took time out of their busy day to chat with you, give them a follow-up thank you call (or email.) If you were lucky enough to get an interview for a position, always write a thank-you note within 24 hours. This type of proactive behavior demonstrates that you’re serious about finding a position.
Keep your online profiles up-to-date
A growing number of employers are looking for technological savvy professionals who understand how to use and leverage social media. If you don’t update your LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter pages while you’re on the job market, this sends the message to prospective employers that you’re not interested in making a strong impression. Log in to LinkedIn at least once a week to check for updates and to peruse job listings and group discussions. Follow companies on Twitter that you’re interested in working for. Be social and be engaged. Fully developed social media profiles also allow employers to easily search and learn more about you. Try to make it as easy as possible for them.
For more great tips on balancing your job search, contact Pro Source Staffing today.