Assembling Your Job Search Toolkit to Land a Job Faster
Jobseekers today have access to a wide range of resources and tools that can improve and
significantly shorten their job search. Electronic communication, online CVs,
and social networking sites all mean it's definitely not your parents' job search! However, there
are some fundamentals which, when adopted and followed correctly, can streamline your
job search and help you land a plum position before you know it.
1. Get the Right Stuff. To perform a quick and effective job search, you'll need to put
together a solid toolkit. The good news is you probably have most of this stuff already and the
rest of it is not difficult to acquire. The most important ingredients in your toolkit are:
- A reliable computer with Internet access and word processing software.
- A serious email ID. Some people prefer to establish an email address dedicated to their
job search. Whatever you choose, make sure your email address conveys a real person engaged
in a professional job search (i.e. stay away from cutebunnyears2006@hotmail.com!)
- A cell phone and/or landline. Having both is ideal when engaged in a job search since cell
phones ensure you won't miss an important call while landlines still provide better sound quality
for longer job search-related calls. And while you're at it - make sure your numbers are
masked for increased security.
2. Shape Up Your CV. A professional-grade
well-written CV that clearly highlights your
experience and qualifications is still the backbone of an effective job search. Also be prepared
to customise your cover letter to the particular job you're interested in. And remember that your
job search will be an uphill battle unless you present yourself as a professional, articulate candidate.
3. Create an Online CV. Creating an online CV adds a new dimension and can considerably
shorten your job search. Prospective employers and recruiters increasingly prefer to access candidates' online
CVs. Using an online CV template like iProfile saves time and enables you to tailor your job search to
specific opportunities.
4. Notify Your Network. Networking with colleagues, former employers, co-workers, and other business
associates is a sure-fire way to get faster results - make sure they all know you're engaged in a job search.
Send those with contacts in your industry your CV or a link to your online CV. Expand your search network by
asking them to introduce you to others in your field. Join industry associations to make new connections and
consider joining one or more online professional networking sites.
5. Get Connected, Stay Connected. While using an online CV template to create and
post an online CV is a good shortcut to finding work, the Internet offers an entire range of useful job search
tools and resources. Explore company websites to educate yourself and
uncover new opportunities. Conduct specific job searches using online career and job search boards.
In fact, save time by searching millions of jobs
across multiple job boards all from one central location with your iProfile.
6. Spread the Word. Regardless of why you're engaged in a job search, this is no time to be shy.
In addition to building your professional job search network, let all your friends, family and other
personal contacts know about your job search. Whether you know it or not, they're part of your job
search network too and you never can tell where the next opportunity will come from.
7. Know What You Want. The quickest way to shorten your job search and land your dream
position is to know what you're looking for. Avoid wasting precious hours on companies or jobs
that are either unrealistic or unappealing to you. Target the industries and firms that suit
you best and focus your job search activities squarely on them.
Of course these guidelines are no guarantee you'll land a job tomorrow. But using time-tested
techniques and having a well-stocked job search toolkit will help put you on a faster track.
For more information on conducting a quick and effective job search, visit
iProfile's Career Advice Section.