Job search strategies

Because your great new job probably won’t find you.

Job sites

Including specialist sites. Do a thorough google search. If you’re only on Seek, that’s probably not enough. E.g. try Trademe’s jobs, jobs.govt.nz.

Recruitment agencies

Including specialist recruiters in your industry. Do a Google search. One trick is to go to a job site and see which recruiters are advertising roles in your area - then approach the recruiter. Better yet, apply for one of their roles (if feasible) and introduce yourself to the recruiter that way. If you can get in front of a recruiter that’s helpful in terms of making yourself known. And keep in touch – the squeaky wheel strategy, nicely done, can work. It keeps you front of mind. Ask your network for recommendations on recruiters to approach.

LinkedIn and Facebook

Work on your LinkedIn profile. Consider signing up to a LinkedIn premium Job seeker membership. This will let you connect with potential employers and recruiters directly to introduce yourself. Make sure your profile is polished up first. Reach out to your LI and FB network to let them know you’re on the hunt.

Here are two online resources to help you build a great LinkedIn profile:

• https://blog.linkedin.com/2014/07/01/creating-a-killer-linkedin-profile-tips-from-link-humans

• https://www.themuse.com/advice/the-31-best-linkedin-profile-tips-for-job-seekers

Organisational websites

Many have “work with us” or career pages - this is a great source of info. Plus you might be able to submit your CV online to add to their pool. That way, when a vacancy comes up, they may not advertise - they’ll find you in their pool already.

Use your network

Tell people you’re looking for your next step (unless you need to keep it quiet). Remember that roughly 60% of roles aren’t advertised.

Direct approach

This is the one everyone hates, and most people won’t do. It equals social pain, but on the flip side it also equals less competition (because few people do it). If you want to work for a particular firm, or in a particular industry, you need to get bold. Remember the value you bring and go approach them. Every organisation needs great people. Every organisation has problems it needs to solve. If you can help them with that then they want to meet you. You just need to introduce yourself and have your pitch ready. How you can contribute and why you want to work for them or in the industry. You could also treat it like an “information interview” where you are looking for information about working for them and in the field you are interested in. It's surprising how often an information interview turns into a job.

Consulting, Freelancing, Contracting

Consider consulting, contracting, freelancing, interning or even working for free to keep your CV current, relevant and interesting. Or it could be a longer term career strategy for you too. Technology advancements, rise of “virtual” opportunities plus the uncertainty of current jobs has created a rising tide in people working independently.