10 Best Strategies for Job Hunting (Plus Tips for Success!)

Strategising your job search is all about knowing where to look for opportunities. As with all tasks in life, you have to work smart, not just hard, to be efficient. There are many strategies for job hunting, so be wise and think about what would work best for the type of jobseeker you are.

Job hunting can take some time, especially now that you can land a job through several more means and platforms. Sometimes, however, you can still get rejected — even by jobs you are qualified for. This is all the more reason for you to explore different approaches. If you find the right strategies for your job hunting journey, you will be faced with a less arduous process, more opportunities for career growth, and, possibly, a better  job.

How do I succeed in a job search?

You can be successful in your job search if you create a plan and try different strategies. Here are some strategies for job hunting that you can consider.

1. Networking

Time to tap into your professional network! Your connections can link you to hirers who have openings, or they can introduce you to people who can answer your questions about particular jobs. If you are in a field with professional associations, you can join their events and network there.

2. Asking for referrals

Not all hope is lost if your professional network is not as vast yet. You can always ask your family or friends if they know of openings in your industry. They can pass you along to their connections or ask around for prospects on your behalf. Alternatively, they might be working in a company with a referral program, and they can recommend you for a job. You never know – you might even help them land a referral bonus if you get the position.

3. Signing up on online job boards

One advantage of a job board is that you can scan multiple openings in one platform. This allows you to compare jobs and assess which ones fit best for you. Utilising job boards like JobStreet is another strategy you should keep in mind. Everything is online these days, so you can find job openings from your computer and even your phone! JobStreet now has an app that you can download on Google Play or App Store, so you can browse through employment opportunities more conveniently.

Pro Tip: While it is important to customise your CV and cover letter for each application, you can also keep a generic one in your online profile. When creating your account on JobStreet, make sure to update your profile with all the information it asks for. This will allow the portal to connect relevant prospective employers to you, according to your field of interest and geographic area.

Make sure that your profile has the keywords that recruiters will use to go through the Applicant Tracking System so your application will be noticed. Maximise all those tools available to you to help you search for that perfect opportunity!

Read more: How to Make a Resume With Strong Keywords

4. Connecting with recruiters and headhunters

Some employers use recruitment agencies and headhunters to fill job openings. Working with a headhunter can be a good strategy: After you have discussed with them what kind of work you are looking for, they can link you to different openings and other industries that fit your profile. Remember, though, that headhunters charge based on commission, so discuss the headhunter’s rate and negotiate for a salary that can cover this fee.

5. Joining career fairs

One of the best strategies for job hunting is joining career fairs. Think of it as window shopping in the mall, only you are getting to know different companies in one venue — or in the case of virtual career fairs, over a certain number of days.

If you are about to finish university, check when your school schedules career fairs. For those already working, JobStreet conducts virtual job fairs where you can explore industries and see what the openings are! Stay updated by subscribing to JobStreet’s Career Resources Hub.

6. Inquiring at placement offices

Universities usually have placement offices that offer coaching for applicants and list job openings. If you are just about to finish your degree or have recently graduated, check if your university has a placement office and see if they have listings you can apply to.

7. Checking company websites

Some companies have a dedicated careers page on their website. If you are interested in applying to specific companies, checking the careers page of their website is a good place to start. Alternatively, you can search for organisations in the industry you work for, and check their careers page for openings. Some of these even allow applicants to apply directly on the website, so have your CV ready.

8. Directly contacting company recruiters

Reach out to the company’s recruitment team. You can call their office or send them an email. If you do send an email, briefly introduce yourself as someone interested in applying for a job in their company, attach your CV, and include that you are looking forward to hearing from them to jumpstart your application.

9. Exploring internships

The lack of experience should not be a hindrance when applying for a job. Internships are a good starting point to gain experience in a field, build your CV, and grow your network. Some internships can even transition into full-time jobs. Even if this is not the case, do your best to shine because you can be called in the future for possible jobs.

10. Following up on the jobs you previously applied for

Keep a list of the jobs you have applied to. Note the status of each, including your interviewer's contact details if already applicable. This will help you make sure that you do not apply to the same job twice after a few weeks of not hearing from the company. You can also send a follow-up email asking about their hiring timelines.

If you have been interviewed, do not forget to send a thank you email to the recruiter. This tells the company that you are courteous and very much invested in this application. If you have not heard back from the recruiter after two weeks, you can send an email to follow up as well.

Summary

Succeeding in the job hunt requires working smarter and exhausting all the strategies for job hunting. Keep in mind that the reality is not everything may go according to plan. There will be times when you do not get any calls or will not be considered for the job after going through multiple tests and interviews. These are all challenges and an inherent part of the job hunt. Amidst all the challenges that you might encounter, always remember that through careful planning, persistence, and hard work, you will find work that brings you passion and purpose. If you do get rejected, here are some ways to turn it around.

Being smart about your strategies for job hunting can help you find jobs faster, so #LetsGettoWork ! Update your profile at JobStreet and find work that will bring you passion and purpose.  Finally, don’t forget to visit Career Resources Hub for more expert tips and advice on job hunting and resume writing.