Author: Mike Scaletti
California is down to a 1.2% test positivity rate, the lowest in the nation. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter, but we're not out yet. If you're looking for a new job during this pandemic, the new and additional challenges you're facing can feel overwhelming. So much so that it can be difficult even to get started. We understand, and that's why we put together this collection of tips to give you a helping hand.
Make Sure Your Resume Is Up To Date
The first thing you need to do when you're ready to start your job search is to get your resume up to date. This means making sure the layout makes sense, is modern and aesthetically pleasing, and has up to date information. Remember that hiring managers look at dozens of applications every single day, if not more, so you want yours to stand out.
It's also important to tailor the contents of your resume to the job you want. Your experience is great, but if it isn't described in a way that highlights how you fulfill the requirements of the job you're applying for it isn't going to get you far. This means customizing your resume to every job you apply for, every time.
Target Your Search
Especially as more of us have moved to full time remote work, the number of places you can spend your time looking for work has skyrocketed, with websites, job agrogators, temp agencies, classifieds, job boards, and more all clamoring for your attention. So how do you choose where to start your job search?
Your first step should always be contacting your network. Do you know anyone who works in the field you're targeting, or better yet, the position you're targeting? Ask them what tools they used to land their job. What did they find most useful? It's also worth inquiring about whether they are aware of any openings, at their company or others.
Next, with so many options for job boards and aggregators available to you, try to look for one that is focussed on your specific industry. Indeed is great, but its broadness can end up bogging you down in positions that don't quite match what you're looking for. Instead, look for sites like Dribble, a job board focussed specifically on graphic and art design positions. This targeted approach can end up saving you time and effort.
Also, write down a list of companies that you would love to work for. These can be dream companies or simply those you think would be a great next step in your career journey. Check out their website or reach out to them directly and see if their hiring.
Finally, consider using a staffing agency, like The Job Shop, to help you with your job hunt. Reputable agencies like us have years of history building relationships with clients, as well as a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you land the job you most want.
Consider Freelancing
One of the unexpected consequences of the last year was an absolute explosion of freelancing work. Freelancing work can provide fantastic opportunities to make a higher than normal wage in your industry, as well as to expand your experience and network. While isn't for everyone, it can open up opportunities you might not otherwise have had the chance to pursue, and with everything that has happened in the last year, at the very least it is worth considering.
Check out our guide to expanding your freelancing skills if you are considering going this route.
Be Open To Possibility
Covid and all the ensuing impacts it had on our society have drastically changed many industries and work places, and this may cause your old expectations when looking for work to no longer be relevant. This can be a positive though! Whether it means working remote some or all of the time, having more space in your office, or some other change, you may find that your like the new way of doing things more than the old!
Do you're research, discover what the changes are, and then be open to the possibility of enjoying these changes.
Good luck out there, and if you need help with your job search in this trying time, remember to reach out. The Job Shop is always here to help!
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