Job Search Strategy for Uncertain Times

With five generations now in the workforce and competition from both internal and external candidates, securing a job presents its own challenges and sometimes frustrations. In addition, depending on your targeted industry, current funding sources may be uncertain. However, with a focused job search strategy and a willingness to open yourself to alternative possibilities, gaining a job is within reach.

Resume and Cover Letter

Before starting your job search, the most crucial step is to check your resume to make sure it gives a clear summary of your achievements. Examine your current resume using this evaluation to ensure it is no longer than two pages and only includes your last ten years of employment.

Even though your extensive experience might not be adequately represented in a two-page resume, when you apply for jobs, make sure your material is tailored to each one, including relevant keywords from the job posting.

Your cover letter will be reviewed next.  If a cover letter is required for a position, make sure it is no more than one page and concentrates on the experience you have that is directly related to the job description.  Keep in mind that the cover letter should not be a rehash of your resume, but rather an account of how your professional accomplishments meet their needs.  The individual reviewing your resume and cover letter will be able to determine your suitability for their demands if you customize them to each posting’s requirements. 

Job Search Strategy

Developing a job search strategy comes in second.  Focusing on your goals can help you plan and monitor your progress more effectively and save time on sporadic searches. Making both a primary and secondary plan can help you achieve this.  While the secondary plan offers flexibility to expand your search, the primary plan will concentrate on the specifics of the job you want.

Remember that your next job is just that—your next job. It does not have to be the ideal one; it simply needs to be one that will let you keep developing your network and experience while also sharing your expertise and contributing to the success of an organization.

Let’s begin by drafting the main strategy.  It is helpful to list the qualities you are seeking in your next position during this phase:

• Job status, i.e., full-time, part-time, or limited-term
• Compensation – best to think of this as a range
• Benefits that are key for your lifestyle
• On-site versus remote or hybrid opportunities,
• Commute preference, including whether relocating is an option. 
• Consider what job titles fit your goals
• What industries, or even a targeted list of employers, to focus on
• And, lastly, outline what may be deal breakers or those elements of a job or industry that are not desirable

Focusing on opportunities that fit your needs is easier when you are clear about what you are looking for.

Clarity and focus are important, but having a backup plan will provide greater freedom.  This may include a departure from your initial objectives, such as taking on shorter-term positions or supplementary job titles, among other things.

Building Relationships or Networking

Building and maintaining long-term relationships is crucial, even if this approach frequently carries a bad connotation and may make people uncomfortable being vulnerable when reaching out. The goal of networking is to build relationships for the duration of your career, not just to inquire about job openings. Building new relationships is important, but do not forget to use your existing network, and do not be afraid to express interest in a new job. Information about the hidden job market—those positions that are open but might not be advertised—will frequently be shared via this network.

Building relationships is essential for understanding the hiring cycles of companies or industries, learning about current and potential job openings that may not be posted, and gaining insight into employers that are not already on your plan, regardless of how much time you spend looking for a job.  Additionally, your new contacts might occasionally be able to recommend others.  Remember that every individual you encounter becomes an extension of your job quest. However, keep in mind that partnerships require both giving and receiving; they are not one-sided.

There are numerous ways to meet new people, even though putting yourself out there might not feel comfortable.  Attending job fairs, joining associations related to your career (e.g., AMA for Marketing, Paralegal Associations, Fundraising Associations, SHRM), contacting your alumni group, going to events with your local Chamber of Commerce YPN, taking part in events that align with your interests and hobbies (e.g., Meetups), and volunteering are all opportunities to consider.

Even though applying online alone might get you an interview, putting yourself out there will increase your chances of securing the job you desire and possibly in a shorter timeframe.

LinkedIn and Social Media

In the same way that you are looking for a new position, businesses also utilize special recruitment efforts. They use social media platforms, like LinkedIn, to post openings and look for passive prospects. Be sure to participate in any forums with employers sharing your objectives. Join groups, interact with others, and actively use the search function to locate peers and job openings.

LinkedIn profiles give you more freedom to describe your whole job experience and much more, whereas resumes must be no more than two pages. Make the most of your profile by telling your narrative in the overview section and then going into depth about your training, credentials, experience, and other relevant information. LinkedIn makes it simple to look for employers and colleagues, as well as build a professional profile.   

Create posts using this resource to establish yourself as an authority in your field.  Being active on all professional and social media platforms is essential to making sure you are seeing the most recent information on job openings and businesses.

Additionally, a variety of job boards are accessible, such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and Zip Recruiter.  You can use job boards to create a general and a targeted job search. However, when you come across a job that interests you, it is best to visit the employer’s website to learn more about their goals and mission, ensure the position is open, and apply directly there.

Tracking

The job search process can take months and involve a lot of applications and ongoing networking. Keeping track of application submissions, their status, the people you have met, and their contact details in a spreadsheet helps you identify what efforts are working and where you need to change your approach.  Keep track of the applications you have sent and establish a file for housing employment postings.  You can review and rehearse from the posting if selected for an interview.

Lastly, please be patient with yourself; it may take three months to a year to find a job.  Employers are becoming more selective in their hiring practices and postings, which can be difficult for job seekers. Still, it can also be comforting to know that you are not doing anything incorrectly.

Check out Top Articles on HERC Jobs.

About the Author: Sara Ermeti has worked in HR leadership for nearly 30 years in various industries such as higher education, NFP, Religious, Financial, Entertainment, and Transportation. She is also an adjunct professor teaching courses in HR and Business. Sara is a certified coach and resume writer offering individual and business consulting through Esperto HR Office.