Have you re-entered the job market and wondered if anything has changed? Have you recently lost your job and don't know how to start your job search?
While some things have changed in the new job search landscape, some things have remained the same.
Let's take a look at both.
Keep Doing This
1. Network with friends, neighbors, community groups, professional groups.
2. Create a job-focused resume that highlights your accomplishments (not a to-do list of job responsibilities.
3. Prepare for an interview by studying the job description and practicing responses to questions that may align with the job responsibilities and skills described. Think STAR (Situation or Task, Actions Taken, and RESULTS). Prepare responses to common interviewing questions, Strengths, Weaknesses, Why Us, Take Me Through A Day. Througherly research the company.
4. Create a thank you email.
5. Create a LinkedIn profile.
Now Add This
1. Leverage AI and Automation
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AI Resume Optimization: Tools like Jobscan can help tailor your resume to specific job listings by analyzing job descriptions and suggesting keywords to improve your chances with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
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Chatbots & Virtual Assistants: Some companies now use AI-powered virtual assistants in the recruitment process, allowing you to interact, apply, and even schedule interviews directly through AI chat interfaces.
2. Network through Social Media & Professional Platforms
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LinkedIn Networking: LinkedIn continues to be one of the most powerful platforms. New features like LinkedIn Open To Work and LinkedIn Career Pages allow you to connect directly with hiring managers, recruiters, and companies, making networking more active.
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Twitter & TikTok for Job Seekers: Especially for younger generations, platforms like Twitter and TikTok are becoming valuable tools for job search. You can engage with companies, follow industry leaders, and even share your career journey and achievements creatively.
3. Personal Branding
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Build a Personal Website/Portfolio: Having a personal website or portfolio showcasing your work is becoming more common, especially for creatives or tech professionals. It’s a great way to stand out and demonstrate your skills.
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Video Resumes: For roles in media, marketing, or any position that benefits from showing off personality and communication skills, video resumes can help you present yourself in a more engaging way.
4. Direct Outreach
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Instead of solely applying to posted job openings, direct outreach to hiring managers or recruiters via email or LinkedIn messages is becoming a more effective strategy. Crafting a personalized message expressing your interest and how your skills align with their needs can help you get noticed faster.
5. Remote and Hybrid Job Search
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As remote and hybrid work have become the norm, searching specifically for remote-friendly roles or companies with flexible working arrangements is a key strategy. Use websites like Remote.co, We Work Remotely, and FlexJobs to find such positions.
6. Freelancing & Contract Work
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More people are considering freelance or contract work, even in fields traditionally dominated by full-time employees. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal have made it easier for job seekers to land projects without the long-term commitment of a full-time role.
7. Skill Upgrading (Microlearning and Certifications)
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Continuously upgrading your skills is essential. Microlearning platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning offer bite-sized courses and certifications that can boost your employability. Many job seekers are using these platforms to stay competitive and learn emerging skills like AI/ML, data science, or cybersecurity.
8. Targeting Companies Instead of Roles
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Instead of just searching for specific roles, focusing on target companies can help you tailor your approach. Researching companies you're passionate about and finding roles that align with your career path can give you an edge. This strategy allows you to align your job search with a company's mission and culture, leading to a stronger fit.
9. Job Search Communities and Groups
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Joining online job search communities on LinkedIn, Slack, Discord, or Facebook can provide support, job leads, and advice. These groups often share job openings not posted elsewhere and can be a great way to network with others in similar fields.
10. Video Interview Preparation
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As virtual hiring becomes the norm, preparing for video interviews is essential. Practicing with video tools like Zoom or Google Meet and making sure your setup (lighting, camera position, sound) is professional can give you an edge over other candidates.
By staying up to date on these new strategies and leveraging the right tools, you can enhance your job search and increase your chances of finding a great opportunity.
