5 Fantastic Job Hunting Tips to Help You Land Your Dream Job

f you’ve been noticing more “Help Wanted” signs than usual, or if you’ve been sifting through job listings every day, you’re not the only one. Research suggests that there are way more job openings than unemployed people in the U.S.—10.9 million compared to 8.4 million, respectively—even as job-hunters struggle to get hired.

This might sound intimidating if you’ve been searching for work for a while, but the truth is that there’s plenty you can do to improve your chances. As you search for a job, here are five key job-hunting ideas worth trying.

1. Use the Right Keywords

Thanks to modern technology, 99% of Fortune 500 companies use software to screen resumes, and you can bet that many smaller businesses are following their lead. The use of this software means that your resume might get discarded long before an HR representative even sees it!

To avoid this, make sure you’re using the keywords listed in the job description throughout your cover letter, CV, and other materials.

2. Use a Cover Letter

On that note, use a cover letter! Even if the job ad doesn’t require one, they’ll often leave a space for you to add text or attach a file for your cover letter. Using one can give you a leg up, especially if you’re tailoring it to your prospective employer—as you should, according to popular job hunting advice.

3. Find the Right Job Boards

Larger job boards and social media sites can be a great way to expand your horizons and see opportunities from multiple employers.

However, don’t forget to check for industry-specific job boards that can narrow down your search. Some job boards, for example, are designed to help freelancers and contractors, while others may be better suited to healthcare professionals. Don’t forget to sign up for regular new listing alerts as you work to find a new job!

4. Work With a Specialized Recruiter

Working with a recruiter is an easy way to streamline your job search, and it’s easy to do while you’re doing your own job hunting.

Note, however, that certain recruiters work best for certain industries. You might want to seek out tech job recruitment, for example, or you might want to look for a recruiter that specializes in pairing marketing professionals with their dream team.

5. Network

Attending industry events is a great way to produce sustainable leads. While networking looks different in the age of COVID, it’s safe to say that there are plenty of virtual events to go around. Look for professional association meetings and networking events held on an ongoing basis, which can help you see the same people more regularly to solidify your connections.

Try These Job Hunting Ideas for Success

The job hunting tips above might sound straightforward, but they’re an easy way to ensure that you stand out from the competition on every application. Adopt these habits during your search to see success, but don’t forget that job hunting is often a marathon, not a sprint. Keep a cool head and keep pushing forward to find your dream job!

Want more of the work and business tips you need to know? Be sure to check out our other content for more informative guides like this one.