Top 4 Job Search Strategies for 2024
Happy New Year! As a career coach, it’s important for me to have a pulse on what’s happening in the job market and to provide the guidance my clients need to be successful in their job search. As I reflect on 2023 and how to help my clients prepare for 2024, there are a number of job search strategies that must remain a focus for job seekers to be successful and land the job they want in this highly competitive job market. Here’s a few that stand out to me:
1. The need for speed
Candidates need to monitor job boards & company websites daily for updated job listings and apply immediately for the ones they are qualified for. It’s quite common to see hundreds of applications submitted within 24 hours of a job being posted on LinkedIn. It’s also common for companies to close the job posting within days after reaching a certain number of submissions. Job candidates need to stay active, keep an eye on company career pages, and set job alerts so they don’t lose the chance for their application to be seen.
2. Referrals are golden
Companies continue to put a lot of value toward referrals in the hiring process. This is where engaging with your network matters the most. Engage with the people who know you well and will be willing to vouch for you as a great fit for their organization. Check out LinkedIn to see what connections you may have at the companies you’re interested in working for. Identifying referral opportunities should be a top priority. Expanding your network should also be a priority and more on that in #4.
3. Gain skills & experience while you search
The job search can take months and candidates should keep building on their resume at the same time. If there are skill gaps in your background against the roles you’re applying to, you’ve got to fill them. Consider pursuing an online certification if it’ll help you stand out. If there is an opportunity to take on a short-term project to gain more experience – DO IT! These projects are great for your resume and who knows what opportunities could arise. Employers want to see candidates who are constantly learning new skills.
4. Networking is powerful
Attend networking events where you can connect with peers in similar positions to the ones you’re targeting. Use the time to learn and grow as a professional in your domain while forming new professional connections. Find ways to support your network connections and that kindness will find its way back to you. Identify a couple mentors who can provide insights into how to stand out as a candidate or break into the field you want. Amazing opportunities can emerge as you meet and learn from talented people in your field.
A clear theme emerges from my top 4 job search strategies and that is: proactiveness. Job seekers cannot wait around for job opportunities find them. Push yourself to explore at least one of the above strategies and trust me, you will see the benefits. If you are struggling to find job search success and want to make an investment in your long-term career happiness, let’s connect and see if we are a fit to work together!