Are you a professional on the lookout for new career opportunities but feeling the frustration of struggling to secure your dream job through traditional job boards?
You’re definitely not alone.
It’s no secret that the job market is ever-changing. Sticking to the same old ways of job hunting sometimes doesn’t always cut it.
Rest assured, there are proactive strategies that can absolutely help you find the job of your dreams. That’s Good HR is here to help you get prepared, step up your game, and start your journey towards a new role with confidence and success.
Why Job Boards Aren’t What They Used To Be
Back in the day, it seemed like job seekers could rely solely on big-name job boards to land amazing opportunities.
Lately, it seems that go-to job search platforms for job-seekers have become inundated with resumes.
For example, according to a survey by 10xhire, the number of resumes on Indeed in 2024 has increased by nearly +145% compared to 2017.
Additionally, ZipRecruiter, another commonly used job board platform has a database of over 43+ million resumes.
So, why do these platforms seem so oversaturated?
The ease of applying to multiple jobs with just a few clicks has led to a flood of applicants pouring into certain platforms.
While applying to 100+ roles daily may feel like you’re casting a wider net and increasing your chances of landing a job, it so often leads to a lack of personalization in the application process.
According to a study by CareerBuilder, a recruiter’s top reasons for rejecting a resume include the following: no thank-you note, lack of resume customization, and impersonal applications.
So, here’s how to cut through the noise and take a more targeted and thoughtful approach to the job search:
Networking, Networking, Networking
Building a strong professional network is the heartbeat of a successful job search.
Engaging with other professions in your industry, attending networking events, and participating in online forums provide valuable opportunities to build professional connections and potential job opportunities.
Networking is not just a buzzword. It gives you a platform for meaningful interactions, allowing you to share their expertise, learn from others, and establish connections that could lead to job referrals or introductions.
Wondering where to start? Try leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to expand your network and stay connected with your local (or virtual) community.
By nurturing genuine connections and regularly following up with contacts, you can easily maximize your network’s potential and open up new doors for career advancement.
Personal Branding + Thought Leadership
In today’s digital age, personal branding and thought leadership have become instrumental in setting you apart from the competition.
If the concept of thought leadership is new to you, here are a few examples of how you can start building your own personal brand:
Start sharing your unique perspective and knowledge on LinkedIn.
You carve out time each week to outwardly engage with other content and professionals, providing affirmation, support, or even varying perspectives.
Showcase your individuality, demonstrating your passion for what you do and why you do it.
Slowly, you will establish yourself as a go-to person in your industry, maximizing your exposure on LinkedIn and increasing your chances of attracting the attention of potential employers who are seeking top-notch talent (that’s you)!
Personalized Applications + Cover Letters
In 2024’s competitive job market, a one-size-fits-all approach to job applications and cover letters is a sure-fire way to land your resume in the virtual “discard” pile.
Using a more targeted and customized approach by customizing individual applications and cover letters to align with the specific job requirements and company culture can significantly increase the chances of securing an interview.
Trust us, we do a lot of hiring 😉
Meaningful research into the company, its values, and the job role demonstrates a genuine interest and understanding of the employer’s needs.
Curious what information you need to know prior to submitting an application? Here’s a good place to start:
Company Culture
Research the company’s culture and work environment. Look for employee testimonials, company reviews on platforms like Glassdoor, or any public statements about their culture. Understanding their values, work style, and employee satisfaction will help you determine if the company is a good fit for you.
The Job Description
Study the job description in detail to understand the specific requirements, responsibilities, and qualifications for the role. Determine how your skills and experience align with the listed requirements and make note of any areas where you may need to focus on highlighting your capabilities.
Recent News + Company Projects
Update yourself on any recent news, projects, or achievements of the company. This could include new product launches, partnerships, or expansion plans. Having this information shows your engagement and interest in the company’s current activities.
By gathering more information on the role and company you’re applying to, you can tailor your application and demonstrate a genuine interest in the role, increasing your chances of standing out as a qualified candidate.
Continued Professional Development
Continuous skill development plays a critical role in staying relevant and competitive in today’s job market.
Identifying in-demand skills within your industry and actively pursuing opportunities to refine your skill set can significantly enhance a candidate’s marketability.
Online courses, professional workshops, or industry certifications offer valuable resources for you to stay at the forefront of the evolving job market.
By staying abreast of industry trends and honing your skills, you demonstrate a proactive approach to professional development, which can be attractive to potential employers.
Partner with That’s Good HR
When you team up with That’s Good HR for your job search, you get access to our extensive network of client companies and exclusive job opportunities that may not be available through traditional job boards.
We provide our job seekers with personalized guidance and support throughout the job search process. When you work with us, our team works closely alongside you to understand your career aspirations, skills, and ideal culture fit, ensuring potential opportunities align with your long-term professional goals.
Want to leverage our industry insights, market knowledge, and established relationships with top employers? Contact us today at https://thatsgoodhr.com/job-seekers/ and gain a competitive edge in securing your next dream job.
That’s Good HR is here for you.