Searching for a job can be a hassle if you are unemployed. Looking for that first job, or just job-hopping from one place to another can really take a toll on you if you are unprepared to handle the job market. More now, in 2022, looking for the right job takes strategy, timing, and a little dose of confidence. To get ahead of the curve it is a good idea to consider the following steps:
 

1) Build An Eye-Catching and Informational Resume

Before you begin your job search, make sure to create and/or update your professional resume. Ensure that your resume has clear objectives tailored to your industry and job position, and keep your resume focused on positive results and accomplishments. Employers like to see a consistent format that is easy to follow. 
 

Make sure you list the most important, relevant items first. For example, you may decide to move your “Internships” and “Projects” sections above your “Customer Service Experience” section. Underneath each experience, you should also put the most important bullet points first. Within each section, you must list experiences in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.
 

Another tip is to qualify and quantify your experiences whenever possible, including numbers and percentages when you can. Highlight specific accomplishments rather than expanding on every detail. Lastly, proofread your work. Look at the sample resume below and notice what is done well, and what can be improved.

Resume Don’ts

• Do not mislead employers about your GPA, skills, or abilities.
• Do not Include long, generic objective statements. Employers will not read them.
• Do not make general claims (“Good communication skills”) without providing examples.
• Submit references on the same page as your resume. They should be kept in a separate document and provided when the employer asks for them.

Remember that your resume is the first impression that employers will use to determine if they would like to meet with you to discuss the potential job. If you want to be taken seriously make sure to invest some time, research, and effort to ensure that your resume can compete with other job candidates. 
 



2) Customize A Job Cover Letter

The next step in a successful job search is to develop a cover letter. This is a very important document that should not be skipped because it helps the employer see your personality! They can use this to determine how you would fit within their organization. It gives you a chance to stand out as a strong candidate and also explains some of your skills and experiences. When creating a cover letter, consider the following:

• Include industry-specific keywords
• Talk about some key strengths or skills
• Include your current contact information
• Explain how your skills will help the company
• Research the company before writing the cover letter
• Ask someone to proofread your cover letter for errors

Cover Letter Don’ts

• Do not use a font that is hard to read
• Do not include irrelevant information
• Do not focus on what the job or company can do for you
• Do not address salary unless introduced by the employer
• Do not forget to personally sign the letter, preferably in blue
• Do not go beyond one page. In most cases, three or four paragraphs is enough
• Do not forget to change the recipient's name and company name for each cover letter

Remember that your cover letter is another opportunity to give employers a snapshot of your skills as they apply to the position you're seeking. 
 

3) Stand Out from the Crowd

After you have developed and/or updated both your resume and cover letter it is time to think about how to attack the job market. Doing so will help you stand out from the crowd of potential candidates. The key to getting hired is to stay memorable. Doing things such as printing your resume and cover letter on quality paper or bringing a portfolio of your work for the employer to review, can help with this. Other things to consider:

• Arrive early to the facility
• Purchase business cards for yourself
• Offer pens/paper with your name on it
• Remember the name of the interviewer
   

When attempting to stand out stay away from jokes, pranks, or videos that one could find offensive or annoying. Refrain from wearing loud or distracting clothing or using inappropriate language.

4) Develop a Job Search Strategy

Another tool that you can use when searching for a job, is to develop a job search strategy. First, determine whether you are seeking employment within a small or large company. The best way to do this is to follow the steps below:
 

• Use job search engines. These help you find job postings fast.
• Search Google to get a quick list of employers that are hiring in the area.
• Apply directly on company websites. Once the job is no longer listed and is removed from the site, it will not show up in the search results. Also, your application will go into the company's tracking system. This can provide updates on the status of your application over time. 
• Use your network, both online and in person. Let your friends and family know that you are seeking employment.
   
  

Remember that when you are searching for a new job it takes time, effort, and an understanding of the companies you are pursuing. At EHS Resumes we understand what it is like to be on that side of the table. We can help you get career ready starting with an awesome resume and impressive cover letter.

Contact us today to get started!
 

I hope you enjoyed this blog. Thanks for reading. 
 

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