Tips on Finding a New Job

COVID-19 has left a lasting impression on our economy and our job market. Right now, we are seeing many people searching for new positions that haven’t had to for many years. Given the high volume of people reaching out to me for advice I put together some suggestions for landing a job to aid you during this uncertain time.

Tap Into Your Connections

Some of the most valuable resources you can utilize are the connections you have already created. You have a significant advantage at getting considered for a position if you receive a referral from someone already working at a company. 

Take time to consider some of the relationships you may be overlooking. For example, coworkers at your previous job may have found new positions already. Fellow alumni, family, or friends may know of open posts that fit your skillset. Also, consider reaching out to anyone you have met at career events or trade shows; they may have resources or have opportunities for you. Note: Tapping into your connections is even more important than normal for most jobs as companies are receiving 2-3 times more applications than they do normally.

Use Social Media

Have you cultivated a following on any social media platforms? Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or YouTube are all great places to engage with your followers to find new positions. Ideally, through your postings, you will have created a positive image with those that consume your content, and they will be excited to introduce any positions they are aware of to you. As well as building your domain expertise as a subject matter expert.

You can also use forums specific to your career path, such as a subreddit relating to your specialization. These public forums are an excellent way for those in the same field as you to help support each other through shared resources. 

Tailoring Your Resume

First, make sure to update your resume with any new information. Your last position should be updated, along with any references you can add from that position. Considering the circumstances, your old managers or coworkers will hopefully provide letters of recommendation and their contact information for adding to your references list. 

As you start applying to jobs, don’t only customize your cover letter, also customize your resume per position. While this seems like a lot of work, highlighting your more applicable skills can mean a world of difference when applying to new jobs. It is important that you do your best to stick out in a pile of resumes, and taking even just 15 minutes to personalize your resume can give you a significant advantage over an unedited application. Read through the desired skills for the position, and see how you can highlight your experience to emphasize those elements. 

Please comment or add tips you think would be valuable to others below. Thank you for reading!