Setting out on a job hunt? It’s a great idea to take a multi-pronged approach to landing your next job. The more avenues you pursue, the better your chances of finding a diverse range of options and opportunities to consider. And as the saying goes, it’s best to “leave no stone unturned” when it comes to covering your bases.
Start formulating your job search strategy by tackling these 4 places to look for job postings.
1) Get online.
The internet is a treasure trove of virtual networking opportunities. Try social networks like LinkedIn to research and discover companies, dig up current job openings, and create a profile page for yourself that serves as a digital form of a resume. Job postings often also make their way onto Twitter, so look for local industry recruiters in your area that you can connect with to discuss any potential fit for you.
There are also plenty of online job banks that categorize job openings based on parameters like location, industry, and so on, making searching current openings a breeze. Take a look at sites like Monster, SimplyHired, or Indeed to begin searching local job databases. You can even check out Craigslist for local postings.
2) Go old school.
In a digital world, there’s something to be said for getting out there and hitting the pavement. Don’t skip over the brick and mortar—depending on your industry, spend some time scanning storefronts for help wanted signage, or, take the time to personally deliver your resume or application to the business of interest. Though remember: if you’d like to speak to a specific individual, it’s best to arrange a meeting beforehand.
3) Tap into your network.
One of the most effective tools at your disposal is your very own network. You may not think you know the right people, or have the necessary connections to get you the job you’re vying for. But the truth is, you almost certainly don’t realize the full extent of your network. You may not know that your old colleague’s former boss now works at the bank you want to work for, for example. The best thing you can do during your job search is talk to people you know.
Schedule coffee meetings, tell friends and family you’re looking, and you’ll begin to discover just how far your network can really stretch. A personal recommendation or introduction is one of the best ins you can get!
4) Turn inward.
Don’t brush over the most important factor in your job search: you! Take some time to think about where you’d like to work, because the truth is that not every position is advertised, and sometimes jobs can be acquired simply by meeting someone and making a connection with them. If there’s somewhere you want to work, reach out to them and request a meeting to learn more. It never hurts to get more information about a company, and meeting someone from the company you’re interested in gets you that much further.
Use LinkedIn or company websites to find contact information for their Human Resources department and request an information interview from there. It’s a simple way of getting a foot in the door!
With your job hunt strategy down pat, don’t forget the other essentials. Discover tips for writing an effective resume, as well as 5 things to research before an interview. Good luck!
