Have you been searching for a new job for a while? If you have, then the start of the New Year is a good time to take a step back and assess your efforts.
For instance, what has worked for you – and what hasn’t? Are you getting fewer interviews than you thought or calls for jobs you’re not that interested in?
As one of the leading employment agencies in Miami, Future Force knows one change here or there can put you on a path toward career success in 2014. To help you, ask yourself these questions:
1. What’s my professional brand?
In a few short sentences, you should be able to define what you do – on LinkedIn, on your resume, and to a hiring manager during an interview. Your professional brand doesn’t need to be anything complicated; it should simply describe what you do – and what sets you apart from others.
2. Am I highlighting accomplishments or duties?
When updating your LinkedIn profile or submitting your resume for a job opening, consider whether you’re promoting accomplishments or job duties. While it’s important for hiring managers to understand what you do, it’s even more important for them to see your past track record of success.
Explaining that you were responsible for ordering office supplies will not impress them. Promoting the fact that you cut office supply costs by 15% will.
3. Is my LinkedIn profile current?
If you created a LinkedIn profile two years ago and haven’t looked at it since, then now’s the time to do some updating and polishing. The vast majority of hiring managers search online for information on job candidates and often wind up on LinkedIn profile pages. So what do you want yours to say about you?
Also, be sure to include keywords on your profile for the types of jobs you’re interested in.
4. Is my online behavior appropriate?
Remember, when it comes to posting online, be careful what you say. Nothing is ever really private and if you wouldn’t want a hiring manager to see it, then you should probably keep it to yourself.
5. Am I networking enough?
This is often the part of job searches that candidates hate most. But networking is a highly effective way to connect with decision makers and uncover new opportunities. So attend all the alumni reunions, professional seminars and tradeshows you can.
Also, try to build relationships with those outside your area through social networking opportunities, such as LinkedIn Groups.
6. Am I customizing my resume for each opening?
Hiring managers know when they are getting a personalized cover letter and resume, or one produced for the masses. While you don’t need to re-invent the wheel every time you apply for a job, you do need to tweak your resume and cover letter to include the most relevant information for each job opening.
If you’d like more help finding a new job in 2014, call Future Force. As one of the leading employment agencies in Miami, Future Force can help you find Miami jobs that are the right fit for you so you can take the next step in your career.