Time Saving Tips to Speed Up the Job Search
Searching for New Employment Doesn’t Have to be Time Consuming
Oct 7, 2009
Today’s job search is far more complex and time consuming than in the past. No longer does it consist of merely sending application packages to companies with open positions, but now it’s all about leveraging online social networks, creating a web-based resume, posting qualifications in employment search engines such as Monster and Dice, and for some, even creating introductory videos highlighting skills and experience. With all there is to do, how can a person possibly keep up?
Social Networking Sites
While creating YouTube videos isn’t for everyone, it is clear that the job search has migrated online. In order to speed up the process, it is very important that candidates establish an online presence on social networking sites such as Linkedin and Twitter. Linkedin is a business social networking site that links candidates, recruiters, and companies. Twitter is a micro-blogging website where people can post their status and availability for new opportunities.
While hanging out in other social networking sites including Facebook and MySpace, candidates can peruse new opportunities via employment-based applications from SimplyHired, Indeed, and other career websites. Using Linkedin is another time-saver – just click Jobs from the top menu to search for new opportunities not listed anywhere else.
Online Job Search Engines
The myriad of employment websites is dizzying. While it behooves candidates to post a resume on the major career boards including Monster, Yahoo! HotJobs, Dice, and CareerBuilder, they should also make use of metasearch sites that glean opportunities from across the web. Jobster, SimplyHired, and Indeed search newspapers, associations, company web pages, and career boards for available positions.
When registering on these career websites, be sure to sign up for emails and alerts for new matching job postings. Also be sure to follow the sites on Twitter to receive up-to-the-minute text alerts on a mobile phone device.
Be Prepared
Above all, the candidate should be prepared at all times. This means having several copies of the (updated) resume on hand, practicing effective interviewing techniques, and creating a targeted job search campaign. Write a to-do list and check off completed tasks. Make sure the wardrobe is professional, up to date, and reflects the employer’s dress code. If a layoff is imminent, learn how to file for unemployment benefits.
Searching for a new job doesn’t have to be overly time consuming. By leveraging social networking sites, using metasearch career boards, and effective preparation techniques, candidates can better utilize their time to increase the chances for a job offer.
