Most people’s checklist for finding a new job reads like this:
☑ STEP 1: Update/create a resume
☑ STEP 2: Update my LinkedIn profile.
☑ STEP 3: Apply for jobs.
STEP 3 can be a huge time drain with poor ROI…and is probably the biggest source of frustration for most job seekers.
For a variety of reasons, when you make applying online for jobs your primary job search strategy consider yourself lucky to garner beyond a 5% ROI. The three steps below can boost your odds with as much as a 30% return on your investment:
Post Your Resume Online
Although tedious, uploading your resume to job boards like Indeed.com or Career Builder may pay off.
It gets your resume into each company’s database where hiring managers/recruiters often search. Not up for this DIY project? Look into paying for resume distribution services.
Target Companies
Looking to work for a bank or a healthcare company? Don’t want to leave your hometown? Figure out which companies can help you achieve your next step and follow them…on LinkedIn AND Twitter.
Following a company can keep you in the loop when they are hiring. Figure out who you might know at these places and reach out!
Examine Your Network
The adage “you never know who you know” applies. You’d be surprised how many people might know someone who can help you take the next step! Here’s some suggestions to help you dig deep:
☑ Visit your LinkedIn Network and see who you know and more importantly who THEY KNOW.
500+ LinkedIn connections is a plus as it expands your second- and third-degree connections exponentially.
☑ Check out graduates from your Alma Mater to see where they have landed.
☑ Think outside your work network (i.e., your child’s coach and volunteer colleagues)
With just a bit of outside-the-box thinking and legwork it is possible to improve your odds when it comes to landing a new job quickly.