Job Search Going Nowhere? 6 Cool Things You Need to Try
If you’re in the job search, you’re probably feeling a range of emotions. Whether you’re transitioning careers on your own accord or were let go by your employer, the job search is a tough sea to navigate — and your ship can be hard to steer when you’ve hit the metaphorical iceberg.
It’s easy to feel disheartened or unworthy when your job search is going nowhere. While you may go through many emotional stages, such as inner self criticism, feeling anger toward employers, or disbelief, it’s important to understand when your job search methods are working and when they should change. After all, if you’ve only been applying through LinkedIn, but have yet to see a response, it may be time to switch things up.
When you feel as if your job search has hit a brick wall, don’t give up hope just yet. Revamp your job search by utilizing these six cool tactics:
Virtual career fairs
Career fairs are a great way to meet with employers face-to-face and sell yourself as a professional — virtual career fairs take this job search tactic up a notch. Not only can virtual career fairs expand your job search by targeting employers from different regions, you can attend these virtual career fairs on your own time and connect with employers through different devices.
Online job search campaigns
If you want to stand out, why not try an online job search campaign? That’s what Matthew Epstein did with “Google Please Hire Me,” a viral campaign used to gain the attention of Google. Lindsay Blackwell did something similar with “Dear Lisa Rudgers.” Both campaigns showed potential employers how far these candidates were willing to go in the job search, while presenting their expertise and experience in a different way.
Interactive resumes
Your resume is the first indication of who you are as a candidate. If applicable to your industry, try something different, like an interactive resume. Dawn Siff, supposed inventor of the first Vine resume, did just that and it helped her get her foot in the door. Other interactive resume examples include videos, infographics, and even video games.
Approach employers directly
Did you know that 46 percent of successful job seekers applied directly to the employer? When you apply directly, instead of through a third-party channel, you increase the chances at getting noticed. Plus, if you take this one step further and apply directly to the hiring manager or even the department head, you open up the doors to communication. However, if the job description explicitly asks you to apply in a certain way, make sure to follow the rules. You don’t want to make the process harder on anyone.
Connect with alumni
Sometimes, it’s all about who you know. Linking with alumni is great way to land a connection, find relevant opportunities, and gain mentorship from someone with a common background. Try checking out alumni networking events or looking on LinkedIn for alumni who have similar experiences. More than likely, alumni who’ve had the same history as you will be willing to help.
Use a job search management program
Job search management programs, like CareerShift, can be your best friend in the hunt for the perfect career. For example, they can provide you with tools and applications to search, store, and manage your activity. Ultimately, a career management program can help you to organize your job search a little better, while giving you some key insight into what’s working and what’s not.
If you feel like your job search is going nowhere, I encourage you to switch up your strategy. Check out virtual career fairs, online job search campaigns, interactive resumes, alumni, and job search management platforms in your quest for the perfect job.
What do you think? What are some other ways to revamp your job search?
Image courtesy of CollegeDegrees360; Flickr
