Whether you’re currently in work or between contracts, starting a new job search can be a daunting task. With a multitude of job search options available, how do you know which one to choose? To help you get your job search off to the best start, we thought we’d take a look at some of the options out there.
Networking
As the old adage goes, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” – and your contacts could be critical in finding or securing work. Whether you’re networking with employers, recruiters, past colleagues, or new contacts, communicating in a meaningful way can greatly benefit your job search. In essence, networking is the art of meeting others, and interacting with them, in a way that will benefit your career, either now or in the future. Networking can help you find work, unearth hidden opportunities, and help you find out about future opportunities. Whilst networking can happen anywhere and with anyone you meet, it’s often useful to target specific groups or events. For example, you could network within your university’s alumni, with members of professional organizations, or at industry conferences. The key with any networking approach is taking the time to nurture and develop those relationships. Remember – networking is an approach that should be used throughout your career, not just when looking for a job.
Company Websites
If you’re interested in working for a specific company or industry, visiting company websites regularly can be a good way to keep up to date on both news and vacancies. As a starting point, create a list of employers you’d like to work for and set up Google Alerts to monitor for updates and new opportunities. For those employers who have job search functions on their website, register your details so that you receive job alerts directly. However, make sure to be specific about what you want, otherwise you’ll end up with an inbox full of irrelevant vacancies.
When it comes to hiring, LinkedIn is an incredibly popular tool both for employers and recruiters. In the past, it was often viewed as an online version of your CV, but today it is so much more. At its heart, it’s a networking tool that allows you to connect with other influencers in your industry. As an individual, it’s crucial to build a profile that works for you. Employers and recruiters frequently use LinkedIn to find future employees and to vet candidates as they apply, so you’ll need a profile that shows you in the best light. As you build your profile, be sure to optimize it so that your keywords, brand, and tone align with your career goals and industry. Remember, references from past clients, colleagues, and employers are key, so don’t be afraid to contact them to ask for a LinkedIn recommendation. There are also plenty of groups for you to join on LinkedIn, allowing you to find and interact with those that are relevant to your industry, location and interests. Being an active member of a LinkedIn group can help ensure that you hear about any new jobs that have been posted in the jobs section of a group too. In order to let employers and recruiters know that you’re interested in a career change, consider changing your employment status on LinkedIn to ‘Open to Opportunities’ and start replying to those headhunter and recruiter InMails that have long been ignored.
Other Social Media Channels
Despite LinkedIn being known as the ‘professional’ social media platform, other social channels such as Twitter and Facebook can be a boost to your job search as well. Regardless of which social channel you’re using, ensure your profile looks professional and shows you in a positive light. Optimize your bio or about me section with relevant keywords to make you ‘searchable’ based on what you do, and what you do well. The key with any social channel is to be active. Search for groups related to your industry, network with other professionals, and like or follow company pages of interest. If you don’t want to run the risk of having potential employers or recruiters uncovering awkward photos or comments from your past, consider creating ‘professional’ social profiles instead, sharing updates relevant to your industry and interests.
Job Boards
Job boards have always been one of the top resources for finding a new job, but there’s a better way to search them than just logging on regularly. Many job boards let you create a profile and upload your CV. This will allow potential employers to find you, whilst allowing you to easily apply for jobs. It’s also a good idea to set up job alerts. By doing so, new job postings relevant to your industry get sent directly to your inbox. As tempting as it might be though, try to avoid applying for every job you see. Only apply for jobs that you’re really interested in. Employers and recruiters will often receive an overwhelming response to online adverts. To ensure your CV is received promptly, following up your application with a phone call or email directly to the recruiter can help push your application to the top of the list.
Recruitment Agencies
Job searching by yourself can often feel time-consuming and frustrating. Using a recruitment agency, can be a great way to get someone in your corner, fighting for your next job. It’s a competitive market out there, so using the skills and experience of a recruiter can be invaluable. Recruiters can help increase your exposure to other companies, and help you find job openings you might not have heard about. As experts in their field, recruiters can offer invaluable advice to help you succeed, and can even help you prepare for any interviews they secure for you.
To make the most of recruitment agencies, be sure to keep in touch with them, and update them with any changes, such as your availability, or requirements. The key is to develop a partnership: be honest about your experience, salary requirements, and career objectives. By building a meaningful relationship based on trust, your recruiter will be able to convey your story to potential companies and hopefully help you secure a job sooner.
For more help in securing fresh new recruits for your business, or to find your next job in offshore wind, electricity transmission, construction or the oil and gas sector, contact Curtis Thompson at Turner Lovell today to discuss your requirements. 02074481100, curtis@turnerlovell.com