5 Meaningful Job Search Hacks for the New Year

As we enter into a new decade, you may have an itch to pursue a new career path or explore new opportunities. Whatever your reason may be, we want to support you in your job search. To help you, here are 5 simple tips on how to better streamline your job search and make the most of your seeking efforts in 2020!

1. Network

As trivial as it may sound, you’ve spent years developing your network of friends and contacts, so why not use it to your advantage? Ask your network or even explore the possibility of a social impact career within your current firm by talking to HR or your manager. Career fairs are also a great way to network. Follow us @Bmeaningful for updates on events and potential roles. LinkedIn is also a great platform to seek potential opportunities or reach out to individuals who might be in your dream role.

2. Follow-up & Track your efforts

After applying to a new role, it’s easy to forget about the application and move on. Stay on top of your job hunt efforts by keeping track of your applications on an excel document. Schedule follow up times, results, and if you’ve networked with anyone from that specific organization. Keeping organized is an easy way to stay ahead of the job hunt. We cannot stress the importance of following up. As much as you don’t want to appear pushy or get rejected, a simple follow up email can only show potential employers that you’re interested and can help you stay on top of the progression of your applications.

3. Prep for interviews

Knowing your professional self is the key to acing any interview. To prep for your next interview, create a document and list out your strengths, development areas, hard and soft skills, accomplishments, and stories. Conducting a self-assessment can help you sound less rehearsed and more confident during your next interview!

4. Tailor your resume

Unless the same job posting for the same company shows up twice don’t send the same resume and cover letter. We know the tailoring process can be mundane, but employers can tell you’ve been using the same cover letter and resume for all your applications. Tweak your resume to add keywords from the job ad, and get creative with your cover letters! Tailoring your efforts is an easy way to start seeing results.

5. Online Portfolio

Want your application to stand out even more? Create a page on WordPress, Blogger, Tumblr or showcase your work on your LinkedIn profile. Instead of telling employers you can use Creative Suite, why not show them your abilities on your own website? Or create a blog of all of your social impact initiatives and projects!

Whether you’re looking to switch careers or progress within your current industry, we wish you all the best on landing the job of your dreams. Show your job search who’s boss this new year, and start 2020 off with a bang.