Leading Your Job Search with Humility

Invoking Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics (without the expletive), I think it is always a good thing to remain humble during your job search. This means that as much as your pride might tell you to hide the fact that you’re unemployed, now is not the time for that. You have to use the connections you have – especially online.  

I have seen a number of very savvy recent grads go viral on LinkedIn by posting their resumes. A few gave updates after getting job offers and interviews from folks who saw their posts floating around. So, get out there!

Be creative in your approach. Don’t just post your resume and “I need a job in tech” on your LinkedIn profile and think that's enough. Tell your story. Share what makes you unique. Heck, anyone who decides to make a jump from nonprofit to tech is brave. 

So, reach out to that recruiter you’ve been following on LinkedIn (or Twitter, even). It took me a while to release myself from the shame of being unemployed to embracing the experience and making it my own. There is so much to learn if you would open yourself up to the rollercoaster that is making the switch. 

Ok, so what are some steps you can take in putting yourself out there?

1.    Write about it. The best way to let people know that you’re looking for new opportunities is to be open. Write about your decision to make the switch and tell your story. I’ve decided to do this in the form of a blog. 

2.    Share your resume with your friends and family. You never know who knows who. I can attest to having more connections than I originally realized. Ask your network to help you land your dream job!

3.    Create an online brand (if you don’t already have one). Flick the switch on LinkedIn and make recruiters aware that you’re looking for new opportunities. Change the language in your profile to capture what you would bring to the roles you’re interested in tech. Tailor what you post on social media to your goal. For years I have mostly posted about politics online, but I have recently decided to refrain from using my platforms in that way. I find politics fascinating, but I don’t want it to be a part of my personal brand. For me, I am interested in working in content creation for a tech company. As such, I’ve been intentional about how I’ve chosen to position myself online. 

4.    Send personalized, specific asks to “super-connectors.” There are a few people that I know who know A LOT of others. They are “super-connectors” who are able to make introductions to hiring managers, recruiters, etc. if you give them the right information. The generic “can you help me” is not going to cut it here. You also don’t want to include them in blanket asks with others. Send a direct email to this person with a specific ask, your resume, any language they might need and links to your online profiles. That way, they’ll have all they need to make the appropriate connections. This is probably one of the most important tips I can give anyone making the switch. Super-connectors can be game changers if you utilize their help in the most productive way.

So, there you have it, a few tips to get you started on your job search using humility as the driving force. It is tough to be in this situation. Take solace in knowing you’re not alone and everyone is rooting for you to succeed. *in my best Beyonce voice* Let's go get ‘em!

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I'm tracking my road to employment during the COVID-19 epidemic at makingtheswitch.me! I'd love for you to join me on the journey. New blog posts every Monday!