Searching for a Job during an Epidemic is hard.  We all know harder for some industries than others.  These tips will save you time and help find opportunities.

Top Tips TO Do   

1) Get organized.  Approach the job search as you would plan a trip. Have a way to track the roles, connections and correspondence you send/receive for your job search.  Make notes about the core mission on the companies you apply too, and keep those notes organized. Record contact information. Note:  This is needed for Unemployment if you get it so it helps.

2) Read the job description and make sure you have all the Basic Qualifications in your resume to qualify before applying.  Employers will not consider you if you do not have the Basic Qualifications visible in your resume. 

3) Resume/Application:

• Have an electronic "soft copy" of your chronological resume save with your full name and include an email address.  Most applications are done online so attaching a resume is key.  Your name and email provide a way to be reached if the resume is downloaded. Use spell check.
• Include title or verbiage that clearly references the role you are applying for and does not limit your search to a particular title  e.g. Business Analyst leading the product development of software products may qualify for a Product manager or Business Analyst
• List only skills or tools you have working knowledge of and if you are advanced in a particular area highlight that skill (e.g. Advanced Excel Skills)
• Minimize your verbiage in your resume but maximize your results and having concrete Quantifiable or Qualifiable results listed (e.g. Increased Revenue by 20% in 3 months  or Recognized as best employer of year)

3) Keep current.  Job searching is a fulltime job.  You will be exhausted, so take time to learn a new skill or do what you love and if its new to you or current in the industry all the better!  Learning and curiosity shows employers you are open to new ideas and you are willing to absorb a new role and all it has to offer.  It also may surprise you, build confidence, connections or a new skill to add to your resume and life experience! 

4) Look and ASK for connections, job postings and/or recommendations- You don't know until you ask who will or can help.   You also may not be aware of roles or needs not advertised. So Look, Ask and Reach out. 

Look:  If you visit a local coffee shop or website- check to see if they have message boards for free job postings.  You would be surprised at the un-advertised roles that pop up locally on physical or electronic sites.

Ask:  The more people you let know you are seeking employment the more people you have reached that can share your message.  If you are watching a child's soccer practice let the other parents know what you are seeking, ask if they know of any roles or resources. Ask your connections for introductions or informational interviews. Interests usually is mutual.

Reach out:  Reach out to former colleagues,  professors, managers or networks for opportunities, referrals and recommendations.  Ask managers or colleagues if they could give you a positive recommendation. Their answer will let you know to expect a connection or a strong recommendation. Don't stop to those you know-- reach out using Linkedin or to mediums you use to see if they have roles.

 

 

Good Luck!