With all the buzz about the latest job-search technology it’s easy to overlook some basic, reliable job search tips. If it’s writing a resume that gets past an applicant tracking system, or getting to know the people behind the companies you want to work for, these simple but effective strategies can make the difference in landing that new role.
Begin by defining the things you would like to achieve in your career and the type of company environment you’d like to be a part of. Then, align those priorities with the types of positions you’re looking for in order to narrow down your search. After you’ve narrowed your search to specific positions, you need to research each company. Utilize tools like Crunchbase to get an overview of the company, its size as well as its funding history and leadership information. You can also find out about mergers and investments and more. This will give you a better understanding of the business and allows you to ask more meaningful questions during an interview.
Build a network of people who can provide you with support and help you find your dream job. This includes current and former managers as well as coworkers, vendors, customers, friends and even acquaintances. When connecting with people in your network be specific in your reasons for why you’re reaching them and how they can help you.
Set goals and plan your applications, networking efforts, and follow-ups. This means that you’ll have a clear idea of what you’ll need to accomplish each week. Don’t be scared to experiment with new ideas or alter your strategy if it’s not working.