By Joey Trebif
Job search is a challenging process, but certainly not a difficult one. I was reviewing a legal document at work the other day and realized that the writer had set out to make the document as complicated and long as possible (it was 150 pages, 145 of which were not necessary). Job search is much the same. Don’t over complicate the process. Focus on the necessary ingredients and execute on your plan.
Following is a list of tips to help you improve your job search and focus on what is important.
- Make a plan – Whether it’s a check list or a list of action items, you should have a job search plan. This will keep you organized and focused.
- Do Your Research – Do you know where you want to work? Do you know who you want to work for? I’m sure you have some answers to these questions, but you should have a well-developed list of the best companies to work that fit your career and industry.
- Know Your Compensation Guidelines – You (obviously) know how much you currently earn, and whatever that is, I’m sure you think it is too low. That being said, do you really know what you are worth? Do you really know what you current employer’s competitors are paying. You should do the research to make sure you align your expectations with the current job market.
- Update Your Resumes – Sounds pretty basic, but you would be surprised how many people don’t keep their resume up to date or, worse, don’t update and review their resume before sending it to a potential employer. Your resume is your most important job search document, review and revise often.
- Update Your LinkedIn Profile – LinkedIn is probably the number one site for job search connections. This is the first place people go when they want to know more about your professional life and also the first place recruiters and companies go to find new talent. You should update your LinkedIn profile on a regular basis. At least once per week if you are in the midst of a job search.
- Research Your Social Presence on the Internet – So what’s lurking out there on the Internet that will get you in trouble with your current or potential employers? The rule of thumb is, if there is something you wouldn’t want your mother to see, then it shouldn’t be on the Internet. Even if you think you’ve been perfect with what you’ve posted, have any of your “friends” posted something that would embarrass you? Only one way to find out, do some research on yourself starting with Googling yourself.
- Grow Your Network – Again, LinkedIn is the best place to build, grow and manage your network. While there are many other networks you can use, LinkedIn has become the standard for career networking. You can leverage the tools within LinkedIn to grow your network.
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