Tips to help you when job searching

You can increase your job chances by growing your professional network.

In Summary
  • Some people have had to job hunt while others were lucky to get jobs immediately after school.
  • To increase your options when searching for a job, it's critical to establish a strategy for your job search.
Image: OZONE

Starting off in your career path can be difficult and hectic especially when searching for jobs.

Some people have had to job hunt while others were lucky to get jobs immediately after school.

To increase your options when searching for a job, it's critical to establish a strategy for your job search.

When job hunting ensure your resume is updated that the information provided is current and accurate.

Tailor your resume and cover letter to meet the specific job you are applying to, be prepared for anything, and keep track of jobs you have applied to avoid applying to the same job twice.

In an interview with the Star, Samuel Mungai, Associate Trainer at Daystar University and  Retired Broadcast Journalist said that most recent graduates make the mistake of not researching the companies they want to work with, and lack the expertise required.

Below are some tips to help you when searching for a job.

Know your career goals

Narrowing down your career goals whether you are a recent graduate or you are changing your career is important.

This includes knowing the industry you would like to venture into, your dream job, the work environment you desire to work in, and what you want to achieve when it comes to your career path.

Set time aside to search for jobs

Searching for a job requires you to set aside time for it. That means being on a constant lookout for a job. Schedule it in your weekly or day schedule, and dedicate yourself to it.

Have a goal for how many jobs you will apply to on a daily basis.

Network

Networking is crucial when it comes to job searching since some companies advertise their vacant positions internally before advertising externally.

You can increase your job chances by growing your professional network.

Therefore these positions can be filled through networking. More people may be able to recommend you for a new position if you have more professional connections.

"Grow your professional network. Attend seminars, improve your local travel, and interact more with different people locally," he noted.

Research target companies

Once you are clear on your goals, it is crucial to research what the organisations you are applying to are looking for.

You can use it to determine what interview questions they frequently ask, get a sense of their corporate culture, and even learn the potential compensation you'll receive.

"Research the company you wish to join, find out what they are doing wrong or where they can improve. Bring solutions and new proposals.''

Cold calling

This involves calling or emailing the companies you are interested in and inquiring if they have job vacancies whether they have advertised or not.

Tell them a little bit about yourself and why you're interested in working with them in your email.

Internships

Starting with an internship is a terrific approach to enhancing your resume and network professionally if you are inexperienced.

You can have the chance to go into a full-time position with some internships.

Companies website

Search through companies' websites since some post their vacancies on their websites. Learn about them, what they do, and who their clients are before submitting your application.

Job fairs

They can be organized by universities, colleges, and some companies. When attending one, investigate the companies that will be attending a job fair before going.

Find out what kind of applicants they are seeking and what positions are available.

Referrals

Certain companies consider employee recommendations when hiring new hires.

This happens because they value the advice of their own staff members which can also speed up the hiring process.

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