From Ordinary to Extraordinary: 5 Fresh Strategies to Stand Out in Your Job Search

Are you tired of sending out countless CVs and not hearing back? It’s easy to get discouraged when you feel like you’re doing everything by the book and still not seeing results. The reality is, the job market is crowded, and standing out often means doing something different. Traditional methods certainly have their place, but if you’re not getting noticed, it might be time to try something new—something that truly showcases your creativity, initiative, and unique skills.

What if the answer wasn’t just to work harder but to work smarter with innovative job search strategies? Here are five out-of-the-box ideas that could turn your search around and help you land your next opportunity in unexpected ways.

1. Create a Personal Website or Portfolio

Even if you’re not in a creative field, a personal website can be a fantastic way to showcase your skills, projects, and personality. Think of it as your online CV—one where you can tell your story in your own words. It’s a great place to include:

• Blog posts about industry trends or case studies
• Visuals of projects you've worked on
• Video introductions that add a personal touch
• Testimonials from colleagues or clients

A polished website could be just the thing that sets you apart from other candidates.

2. Leverage LinkedIn for a “Job Search Campaign"

Social media isn’t just for networking; it can also be a powerful job search tool. Use LinkedIn to create a “job search campaign” that showcases your career journey, skills, and the roles you’re seeking. Here are some ways to make LinkedIn work for you:

• Share regular posts or articles about industry insights, recent projects, or professional milestones to demonstrate your expertise.
• Create video content, such as a video resume or day-in-the-life clips that reflect your skills and personality.
• Engage with industry-specific content by commenting thoughtfully on posts, participating in discussions, and joining LinkedIn groups.
• Use hashtags like #OpenToWork, #JobSeeker, or those specific to your industry to increase visibility and attract potential employers.
• Clearly indicate in your profile that you’re actively seeking new opportunities by using the “Open to Work” feature and optimising your headline and summary.

3. Use Informational Interviews Creatively

Informational interviews aren’t just about learning from others—they’re also a chance to build meaningful connections. Instead of just asking standard questions, use this opportunity to ask deeper, more thought-provoking questions about their career trajectory or the company culture. For example:

• What’s been their most unexpected learning curve in their role?
• What do they think the industry will look like in five years?

This can leave a lasting impression and open doors for more opportunities.

4. Host or Attend Industry-Specific Virtual Events

If attending conferences or events in person isn’t an option, why not organise your own virtual event? Consider hosting a webinar, panel discussion, or online networking event focused on a hot topic in your field. This approach positions you as a proactive industry participant, not just another job seeker. Plus, it gives you a chance to meet people you might not encounter through standard networking channels.

5. Try Guerrilla Job Marketing

Promoting yourself in unexpected, creative ways might feel a bit bold, but it’s a strategy that can make a real impact. If you’re willing to step outside the box, here are a few ideas to consider

• Make a short, engaging video that showcases your skills and experience. Share it on LinkedIn to let your network know who you are and what you’re looking for. With the right approach, these videos can sometimes go viral, opening up new opportunities.
• Create a digital flyer or business card that highlights your skills and achievements. Share it online in relevant LinkedIn groups or industry forums, adding a QR code that links back to your profile or personal website to make it easy for people to connect.
• Share a unique story on LinkedIn about a career challenge you’ve overcome or a recent win. Use storytelling to engage your audience and encourage conversations, making you more memorable in the process.

Stepping outside the norm in your job search isn’t just about grabbing attention—it’s about showing potential employers that you’re adaptable, resourceful, and willing to take initiative. In today’s competitive market, employers are looking for people who don’t just tick the boxes but also bring creativity, bold thinking, and a fresh perspective to the table. Whether you decide to try one of these strategies or all of them, the key is to be genuine and align each approach with your personal brand.

Remember, the job search process can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to showcase who you really are, not just as a professional but as a person. The more authentically you present yourself, the more likely you’ll connect with the right opportunity. Don’t be afraid to experiment, take a risk, or share a unique part of your story—because sometimes, the best opportunities come from unexpected places. Stay open, stay curious, and above all, keep moving forward. Your next role could be just one bold move away.