Polishing your resume and rehearsing your interview questions in the mirror will only take you so far when it comes to finding a new job. While it’s true your dream job is probably out there, you’ll only find it if you’re looking in the right places. Random internet searches and job board postings aren’t going to help you make the connections you really need – but we have some information that can.
You don’t want just any old job. You want a new job with a promising future in the field of your dreams. So why are you wasting your time scouring the want ads and listings on generic job boards? It’s time to leverage your alumni resources and professional networks.
Looking for a New Job? These Job-Hunting Strategies are For You!
Utilize Your College Placement Office
College placement offices are an incredible and often underutilized resource for current students, recent graduates, and alumni. Quite a number of employers will reach out to colleges in search of well-trained individuals. Make sure your resume is on file with the office’s coordinator and give them a call whenever you are in need of work. Remember, colleges have a vested interest in being able to say their graduates are employed.
Explore Professional Associations
What state or national associations exist for your profession? Is there a regional or local chapter you can join? Women who have entered the insurance field, for example, should look for a local branch of the National Association of Insurance Women. Political Science majors may want to look at the Association for Political Theory. There are associations and organizations for quite a number of professions, each offering opportunities for networking and growth.
Strengthen Your Digital Presence
Your online presence does matter. While your resume should do the talking for you, recruiters and HR reps are turning to the internet to learn more about you. What will they find when they look? Clean up your social profiles and pay special attention to your LinkedIn page.
LinkedIn is, after all, a tool for professional networking and job hunting. Make sure you’ve asked people you’ve worked, volunteered, or studied with in the past to leave you a professional recommendation. The stronger your profile, the better your odds of making a new professional connection.
Your dream job is out there, but you’ll never find it if you keep wading through traditional job pools. These job hunting strategies may not offer the quickest results, but with a little bit of effort you’ll find that what you end up with is more valuable than anything you’d find by simply sending out your resume en masse.
