The complete guide on how to find a new job

Are you looking for a new job? Congratulations! It’s an exciting time. Despite all the excitement, however, searching for a new job can also be a daunting task and requires ample preparation. Although it may seem overwhelming, you can land your dream job by taking a few simple steps.

Fortunately, we’re here to help, with a few time-tested tips. These tricks will help you gain the attention of employers and present yourself in the best possible light during the application process. In this blog, we’ll cover the following topics:

• How long does it take to find a new job?

• How to create a top-class job-hunting toolkit, including a resume, portfolio, and cover letter

• How to harness technology to aid in your job search

• How to tailor your applications for each job and get more attention

• How to approach and conquer job interviews

How long does it take to find a new job?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a single answer to this question since everyone’s journey is different. If you have acquaintances who provide you with referral opportunities, your job search could be fairly quick. On the other hand, some jobs require months of applying and interviewing.

According to most estimates, candidates need around three to six months to find a new job. In addition to this, most candidates have less than a 10 percent chance of getting an interview out of any given application. Because of this, it’s necessary to fill out as many applications as you can to increase your chances of being noticed.

Since it’s hard to predict the length of your job search, try to remain employed with your current company until you are sure that you have a job. Although this may not always be possible, it can insulate you from financial insecurity and remove stress during the application process.

Looking for a new job while employed

As we mentioned above, it’s important to keep your current job until you’re sure that you have a new one. However, this can come with certain challenges. If supervisors at your company discover that you’re planning to leave, they may start to look for your replacement or reduce your workload.

When you look for new jobs, try to do it on your own time after work. This will allow you to remain productive at the office, which could come in handy if your new job doesn’t pan out. During the entire process, play your cards close to your chest until you’re ready to make a final decision.

When you tell your boss that you plan to leave, it’s important to remain polite and give them at least two weeks' notice. These individuals can still affect your future and you may need references. Maintaining good relationships is always a good idea and may give you somewhere to go if you find yourself in need in the future.

How to find a new job in 6 steps

Here are six steps that you can take to find a new job that you love:

1. Create a first-rate resume

When it’s time to take the next step in your professional career, make sure that you have a great resume in your back pocket. You can start by searching for example resumes online. These can show you how to format your resume in a professional way and can give you pointers on what to include. Make sure that your resume lists your relevant work experience, along with your skills, education, and professional certifications.

2. Write a cover letter

While creating a resume is an important first step, your preparations shouldn’t end there. Once you have a resume, consider creating a cover letter. This is a short introductory letter that introduces you and expands on the information contained in your resume.

When creating a cover letter, templates and examples are your friends. Look for examples online and tailor your letters based on what you find. A good cover letter should demonstrate enthusiasm for new job opportunities while including relevant details about your professional experience. Your letter is a good place to include all of the anecdotes and details that won’t fit on a single-page resume, so use it wisely.

3. Demonstrate your skills with a portfolio

While not necessary for all jobs, a portfolio can be a powerful asset in many fields. It’s a physical or digital file that contains records of your work, whether it’s gorgeous graphic design or successful consulting projects.

If possible, create a unique personal website to house your portfolio. You can also enhance it by adding visual aids, such as graphs, charts, and performance reports. Whenever you can, make sure to include scans of important documentation so that employers can verify your work. Once your portfolio is online, be sure to include a link in the header of your resume.

4. Use tech to enhance your search

Nowadays, most job searches take place online. Because of this, it’s vital to have a thriving online footprint that presents you in the best possible light. The first step in this process is to create professional social media profiles.

Once you create your profiles, be sure to update them regularly and connect with as many people as possible. This not only displays your credentials but can also lead to more job opportunities. If you don’t already have a professional website, creating one might be a good idea. 

Once you have an online presence, you can use the power of the internet to locate jobs. Most companies now list their open positions online on job boards, making it easy to find exactly the positions you’re looking for. Be sure to follow up with any potential employers, as they may receive a mountain of resumes.

5. Tailor your applications

Every job is different, and it’s essential to take this into account when looking for a new job. Before you apply for any position, review the job listing closely, paying attention to the skills and requirements listed by recruiters. Next, do a little research on the company that you’re applying to and learn more about its culture.

Once you’re done with your research, try to incorporate it into your resumes and cover letters. Use the keywords in the job advertisement to showcase your skills and tweak the professional experience in your resume to reflect the priorities of the recruiter. While resumes can be fairly flexible, you should have a somewhat unique cover letter for each application.

6. Prepare your interviews

Job interviews often make or break job applications, so try to prepare yourself accordingly. Before you go into your next interview, make sure that you have the proper documentation and practice your answers beforehand. If you’re not sure what the recruiter will ask, look online for common interview questions in your field.

Once the interview begins, try to project confidence with your body language. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and maintain a positive attitude so that you make a good impression on the interviewer, Make sure that you clarify any areas of concern with a few well-placed questions. Finally, be sure to follow up with your contact to keep the application process moving.

Key takeaways

1. Most job searches take between three and six months, so be sure to keep your current job until you have a new one.

2. When you’re ready to start your search, create a powerful resume that demonstrates your skills, along with a cover letter.

3. Consider creating an online portfolio to demonstrate your professional successes.

4. Harness the power of technology by investing in your social media profiles, creating a professional website, and using online job boards.

5. Tailor every application, based on the requirements of each job opportunity.

6. Invest in your interviews with ample preparation and proper etiquette.