With the new year, did you decide it was time to start searching for a new job? If so, you are not alone. January and February tend to be busy hiring months. People often decide over the holidays that they might like to pursue a new opportunity. But, what to do next can be confusing. How should you plan your job search? Let's examine a few specifics.
Although it may be tempting to tackle all aspects of the job search process simultaneously, it may not be possible. You only have so many hours in your day. If you are currently working, you will have even less time to devote to what can seem like a full-time career search.
Get in the Right Frame of Mind Before Applying to Openings
If you are looking to get out of a bad situation or are currently unemployed, you may be tempted to apply to any and all jobs you see. However, we suggest you avoid using the "Spray and Pray" method. Instead, spend some time looking at what you have done in the past. What did you enjoy? What do you never want to do again? Now, look at job postings and find which roles meet the aspects you enjoy and would like to move forward with. Cross off those that contain responsibilities you don't want to pursue. When it is time to craft your resume, optimize it to showcase the skills you are looking to use in your new position.
You may also want to spend some time looking closely at the different companies with job postings. Is the company culture desirable? Will you have the opportunity for growth? Again, eliminate the openings that wouldn't be a good match. In the long run, this will save you time and allow you a better chance of success.
Update Resume or LinkedIn First?
In most situations, it is best to update your resume first. You can then use that as a starting point when you update other items, such as your LinkedIn profile. However, the answer varies based on a case-by-case basis and how you plan to approach your job search. If you will be primarily reaching out to contacts within your network, it might be best to update your LinkedIn first, and then tackle your resume. This way, your contacts will know what your most recent experience is, and the types of roles you are searching for. If you plan to apply to online postings, you will want your resume ready to go, so that should be completed first.
A word of caution if you decide to update your LinkedIn first and get the word out that you are looking for something new. It is likely that you will quickly receive a request to submit a resume. So, don't wait too long after your LinkedIn is updated to get started tackling the resume.
Overwhelmed with Your Job Search? Take it Step-by-Step!
Although we often tell people they should be working on practicing their interviewing skills long before they get called in for an interview, we recognize that the job search is stressful. Taking it step-by-step may help lower anxiety levels. Trying to do it all at once may be asking too much. Instead of worrying about everything simultaneously, put the items on your "to-do" list in order. Updating your resume should come before practicing your interview skills. Tackle each item one at a time, and then move to the next thing on your list.
Seek Help
You don't have to do this alone. Revision Resume is here to help you. We can create a new resume, or critique your existing one. Our LinkedIn services help showcase your unique qualifications. Not sure how to word your skills in your cover letter? Let us do it for you! We enjoy making our clients' skills shine! Email us at info@revisionresume.com today. We will be happy to schedule a complimentary conversation with you to learn how we can best support your job search!
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