Rehire Tips

10 Helpful Tips for Finding a New Job

Whether you’re submitting your first application or juggling multiple rounds of interviews, you’ll need a proactive strategy to help you fine tune your job search and stay organized during the process. With that in mind, here are 10 tips to help you prepare for finding a new job.

Network, Network, Network

Your professional network most likely includes individuals who can connect you to job opportunities and people who might be able to better help you find a new job. Check in with your network at different points during your search to see if they can provide you with any guidance or support.

Bonus Tip: Even when you’re not looking for a new job, it’s a good idea to regularly update and maintain your professional network.

Edit Your Resume

Most applicants take the time to edit the obvious parts of their resumes, such as job titles and dates. However, editing for clarity, grammar, and flow is just as important. For example, rather than using the same three or four verbs throughout your resume, use a list of powerful verbs to help you describe your experience in different ways.

Bonus Tip: If you’re struggling to edit your own writing, consider sending your resume to individuals within your network and to recruiters for feedback.

Write Different Types of Cover Letters

While it can be tempting to apply only to jobs that do not require a cover letter, make sure you take the time to write at least two. The first cover letter should be your “master copy,” meaning it touches on all your experiences and connects them in a linear, concise manner. The second cover letter should be tailored to a specific industry or job, covering only the relevant parts of your work history.

Bonus Tip: Learn how to write cover letters early on in the process, so you can save yourself time when applying to different types of jobs down the line.

Update Your Social Media Accounts

It is becoming increasingly common for recruiters to check an applicant’s social media sites after reviewing their resumes. This preliminary search allows recruiters to make sure what’s listed on an applicant’s resume matches the information listed on their online profiles, such as LinkedIn and Facebook. The search also acts as the recruiter’s first impression of an applicant. It’s important then to update your social media accounts, especially your privacy settings.

Highlight Your Skills Through Specific Examples

One of the best ways to highlight your skills is to develop a set of specific examples and stories that you can use in your cover letters and during interviews. These examples and stories will help you clearly communicate your ideas and prioritize the salient takeaways that you want the interviewer to remember.

Take the Time to Prepare

It’s always a good idea to set aside some time before an interview to prepare; some good techniques include researching the company, reviewing the job description, and jotting down at least two questions to ask at the end of the interview.

Show Your Personality

Interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience and the idea of rehearsing a script can seem to provide some solace. However, a script will often limit the conversation and leave the interviewer without a clear impression of who you really are. The best way to find a new job that is a great fit for both you and the employer is to be yourself and show your personality.

Proofread All Emails

Typos leave a negative impression because they show a lack of attention to detail, even if your resume or cover letter suggest otherwise. Develop the habit of reading your emails carefully before hitting send. If you are prone to typos, consider drafting email responses in other documents and pasting them into the email once you’re ready.

Organize Your Searches

It is very easy to lose track of your applications and interview dates, especially when you are submitting multiple applications per day. Develop a system that allows you to easily track your applications, including interview dates and rejections.

Practice Self-Care

Finding a job can be a challenging and frustrating experience. Rather than fixating on how long the process is taking or obsessing over every rejection letter, make sure you take some time to meditate, exercise, hang out with friends, or engage in other activities that help you relax.