Searching for a job can seem like a daunting process, but with a focused plan of action and the right attitude, interviews and job offers will begin to flood your inbox. We teamed up with our Human Resources department to get the inside scoop on the best ways to find a job. Check out our step-by-step job search guide to help make your job hunt a breeze!
-
Be prepared – Before you begin your job search, it’s important to have all materials proofread and ready for submission. This includes your résumé, references, transcripts, portfolio, and more. This also trickles down to cleaning up your online presence. Employers will look at your social media accounts and search for you on Google, so make sure to cleanup your accounts and to maintain a professional image. Better yet, use social media to boast your strengths by posting about topics you are passionate about, projects/extracurricular activities you are involved with, and more. Be prepared when you’re out and about by having a generic copy of your résumé (one without a specific objective) easily accessible at all times. Keep it in your car, book bag, on your smartphone, or wherever you can access it quickly. This way, if you come across someone you want to pass your résumé off to, you will be prepared.
- Find a recruiter – If you’re actively searching for a career, it’s beneficial to have a resource in your corner such as a recruiter. They are free and can help find career opportunities based on your search criteria, qualifications, experience, and education. After all, their job is to help you find an opportunity. If you decide to use a recruiter, make sure to keep lines of communication open and to be aware of where they are sending your information. Recruiting firms can be found at career fairs, in the newspaper, or on the Internet. Major recruiting companies include Robert Half and Aerotek, but it may be helpful to research smaller, industry-specific, recruiting companies as well depending on the field you would like to enter.
- Search for a company, not a job- Look for a company you want to work for, not a specific job occupation. Once you have compiled a list of companies that interest you, take the time to thoroughly research them. Obtain as much information as you can and keep an eye on their career’s page located on their website, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay up-to-date with job openings and company happenings.
- Make connections- Search and add connections on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, as well as speak with family and friends, to discover any contacts at a company or in a field you are interested in entering. Then connect with those you are interested in starting a professional relationship with. This may lead to an interview, a mentor, or a contact that can help you down the road. Making connections and expanding your network will always help land an interview, and help you to later excel in your career.
- Ask questions- If you get an interview, remember you are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you; so come prepared. Have a set of questions ready to ask, ranging anywhere from company culture to growth opportunities. Employers will be impressed by your interest and enthusiasm, which could be the edge that gets you the job.
- Have thick skin- Don’t get discouraged and keep moving forward. If you are actively searching for a job and presenting yourself in the right light, you will be successful.
- Utilize your time-You should be spending the least amount of your time on websites such as CareerBuilder, Monster, and Indeed. Instead, better utilize your time by signing up for email updates from these websites! Plan to go through them each morning, and if you really see something you like, then apply.
Are you a motivated individual in search of an exciting, fast paced career? If so, check out open positions at Mariner Finance! We are currently operating in 24 states, and are continuing to grow each day. Click here to learn about career opportunities, company culture, benefits, and more!
Blog posts are for informational purposes only.