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Having a plan before you start your job search can help you focus and make more strategic decisions regarding your future career, which can increase the number of offers you receive. Planning includes goal setting, such as how many applications you intend to submit in one day and how many follow-up emails you need to send or phone calls you need to make .
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Just like your cover letter, each resume you submit should focus on that particular job. Be sure to highlight your skills and experience that are most beneficial to that position, especially those that are listed in the job description itself.
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Without mentioning your qualifications, your resume might be missed by an applicant tracking system or the hiring manager, and you could be disqualified for the job before a person sees your application. Leave out skills and experience that are not relevant to the position you’re applying for so you have room for what does.
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Sign up for job search platforms. Some examples are LinkedIn, Glassdoor, FlexJobs, Indeed, Monster, CareerBuilder and US Jobs.
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If you’re looking for a job, you should ask all your contacts for help finding mutual career contacts. Networking is an effective way of finding a new job, and employers prefer receiving a referral from a trusted member of their staff.
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Drop off your resume directly at the place you want to work. This might be a good strategy for positions in retail, hospitality, food service, and similar industries.
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Really want to work for a specific company? Contact the company directly. Check out their website for a section on job opportunities. Contact them on LinkedIn. If you know someone that works there - ask them for a referral.
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Your state labor department might have the resources you need to find a job. New York State, for example, has a job bank where you can search open job opportunities, post your resume and where you can sign up to receive emails about new job listings.
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If you’re applying to more than one job, it’s important to keep all the information organized. Glassdoor says to create a spreadsheet so you track all the jobs to which you’re interested in applying.
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To be one of the first applicants for consideration, contact companies that interest you before they publish a job ad. Some companies work with recruiters who can keep you informed when a position opens. Additionally, they might pre-screen you to know whether you're a good fit beforehand, which can significantly shorten the hiring process later.
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Once you find a new job - form strong working relationships. Whether you work remotely or in the office, a good relationship with your peers can improve morale in the workplace, increase productivity and work satisfaction, and improve personal growth.