No matter how hard you work, sometimes it feels as if some people just get all the breaks. This is especially true during the job search; some job seekers work tirelessly with few results, while others seem to attract multiple job offers effortlessly. It isn't all about luck; these successful job seekers have mastered an unorthodox approach to job searching. Adopt a few of the following secrets to beef up your results.
They Don't Always Follow the Rules
When you see a great job posted online, you may think the best approach is to follow the application instructions to the letter and try your best to make your resume and cover letter stand out. Successful job seekers know this isn't the most effective way to get recruiters to notice you. Instead, try doing some research on the company's current employees through its website or LinkedIn profile. Look for people in similar positions to the one you're applying for and reach out. If you make a good connection, ask your new contact to introduce you to the hiring manager. You now have an instant advantage over the hundreds of other candidates who took the traditional application route; you have a personal referral from inside the organization.
They Do Their Homework
Some job seekers will put all their focus into scoring an interview with a potential employer, but successful job seekers take the time to do their homework and determine if a particular job or company is even right for them. Before throwing yourself into the application process, check out the company's reputation. What does the media say about it? What kind of tone does it convey in its press releases? Look at sites like Glassdoor to read unbiased reviews of the company from real employees, and check out the LinkedIn profiles of its management team. The more information you gather about a prospective employer, the more confidence you'll have about whether this is a company where you want to work. This confidence gives you an edge when you make it to the interview process, because you'll possess a deeper understanding of how the organization works, and that knowledge will show.
They Know Their Worth
Successful job seekers aren't just looking for a job; they're looking for the right job. Before beginning the application process, make a list of your most desired benefits in a job. It could be a generous benefit package, work-from-home opportunities or lots of vacation time. Whatever it is, don't settle for less. If you truly want to get closer to your career goals, you need to be willing and able to negotiate with a prospective employer, ask for what you want, and be willing to turn down an offer if it doesn't meet your needs. Remember: you are in control of your own future.
Successful job seekers do their homework, take unorthodox approaches to applying for jobs, and refuse to settle for less than their worth. You must be willing to step outside the box and take reasonable risks to take your career to the next level.
Photo courtesy of Lorena Cupcake at Flickr.com
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