Do’s and Don’ts of a Successful Job Search

Let me guess: you’ve decided you want to pursue other career opportunities, but are weary of starting a job search. Believe it or not, you’re not alone. Most people find job searching daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a quick reference guide to having a successful job search. Print it out or bookmark this page for reference.

What makes a successful job search? Getting a job! But it is also about getting your name out there in your target business community, networking and making a name for yourself. Your career should go beyond one actual job; it should encompass your entire work experience, education and yourself. When planning your next career move, keep these do’s and don’ts of a successful job search in mind:

Dos:

Network daily on social media sites, which includes making new connections, updating your profile with any relevant information, sharing thoughtful comments in groups or postings, reading/sharing relevant blogs.

Apply, apply, and apply.Not every position will be a fit for you, so read the job requirements, not just job the job title. Apply for relevant positions that match your skills, education or experience.

Keep a list of places and positions you applied to.

Keep different versions of your resume. One resume is not a fit for every job you apply to even though you may match the requirements. Spend some time editing your resume and targeting specific skills and highlighting your accomplishments. Save with different titles for easy reference.

Get out there. Take continuing education classes, take courses offered through unemployment or your local library, or go to job/career fairs or other events relating to employment.

Send a thank you note or email after an interview. Have someone else read for spelling and content before sending.

Don’ts:

Don’t apply multiple times to the same position. It doesn’t come off as very put together or professional. In a previous post, Don’t Let Your Resume Be Considered Spam, I dive deeper into the issues doing this can bring.

Don’t be negative. Yes, it’s hard to keep a positive attitude in this economy, but if you don’t know it already, it’s a small world and you never know who is going to hear (or overhear) what you say or read what you post.

Don’t under dress. Wear clothing to an interview or to a business event that is professional and makes you feel confident, but clothing that is age appropriate and not too revealing. You won’t get another chance to make a first impression.

Don’t underestimate yourself. Don’t concentrate on the skills you don’t have, but skills you do have. If an interviewer asks about a skill set you don’t have, admit to it and either mention a skill that is similar, any educational courses you have related to it, or a relevant experience where you have had to quickly learn a new skill.

Don’t give up. Persistence is the name of the game with securing employment. Be tactful and gracious about following up on a position you applied to or an interview you went on.

There is no magic formula to getting a job, but following these do’s and don’ts will increase your chances at securing employment and having a successful job search. What are your job search tips?