Even when getting hired now is the goal, the employment process can often drag on for longer than we’d like. This isn’t always an option for some job seekers with urgent bills to pay and mouths to feed.
On occasions, it’s crucial that you find a job ASAP. However, if you’re eager to find out how to get a job fast, there are a few tricks that you can use to get things moving quicker.
In the following guide, we’ll explain how you can get hired in the fastest way possible and find your next job with ease. Let’s look at these methods in more detail.
Get Prepared and Get Focused
Being prepared is an essential requirement no matter if your job search is slow-paced or hurried. You will always need to spend a little time deciphering the needs of the employer and understanding the nature of the role before you even write a word of a resume or a cover letter. A lot of job seekers spend no more than 30-45 seconds reading the job description – as a result, many job applications companies receive are from candidates who don’t have relevant work experience. Read the job description thoroughly – do you have the experience with the Responsibilities listed and can you prove it? Typically, the most important job requirements are listed first – there is no point applying unless you meet at least 60% of the requirements. Equally, there is no need to wait until you meet 100% of the required criteria as not all of the requirements will be the essential ones and a job description is written with the perfect candidate in mind. That candidate may or may not exist.
Be focused and target jobs that you not only want but that you know you can get with some level of ease. Narrowing down your options will help you create application documents like resumes and cover letters that will really hit the mark. You always need to tailor each application/resume to the job description, so it’s better to send fewer applications that are tailored, rather than randomly applying for jobs you’re only vaguely qualified for.
Make your Resume Sparkle
Your resume is probably one of the best things you can use to sell yourself during your job search. Using tools such as online resume generators and by really focusing on the needs and requirements discussed in the job advert, you can do a lot to get a hiring manager’s interest with your bio quickly.
Our top tips for quickly optimizing your resume to speed up your job search include:
- Write a strong resume objective that highlights your best skills, achievements, and suitability for the job. Your summary section should be a few lines unique value statement that is keyword optimized for optimal search and visual scanning impact. Focus on the two to three most important items in your targeted position where you have achievements and expertise. Cite your industries and unique perspective. If career transitioning, cite transferrable skills and intent to switch industries.
- Keep your resume concise and easy to read. This doesn’t mean your resume needs to be 1- page only (2 is ideal) – but it should never be more than 3 pages max.
- Create an attractive and tidy resume template
- Make your experience section tell a story and show your progression throughout your career. For all achievements that you craft, take a job description responsibility, and ask yourself, “How do you know you did a good job?” Then describe what that good job looked like. Another way to write an achievement-based bullet is to look at how you saved money, made money, streamlined a process or positively contributed to the corporate culture. Be specific. If you’re still stumped, ask yourself, “Why was my manager/co-workers happy with my work? For what work did colleagues come to me for?” These answers are your unique talents and gifts that prospective employers should know about.
- Tailor your resume to each individual job opening. If there are certain hard skills or responsibilities mention on the job description that you have experience in but they aren’t on your resume, make sure you add them.
- Show off a wide array of soft and hard skills in the skills section
Utilize your Natural Charm and Networking Skills
A personal approach isn’t common in today’s job market. Most applications for jobs are screened impersonally via computers (ATS) and much about you as an individual isn’t really known until you sit down face to face with an interviewer. Obviously, creating an effective resume can go some way to alleviating this personal disconnect, although it can only go so far.
That’s where a little personal charm and communication will come to your aid. One way you can get a little of your own enthusiasm across is by following up with the recruiter or the hiring manager directly after applying. If you aren’t looking for a job in a big corporate environment, but rather in a small company, a restaurant or a beauty salon, you might even try delivering your application in person (if another manner of delivery isn’t explicitly specified). Alternatively, by frequenting local business events or professional networking events you can make personal introductions and demonstrate your capability to potential hiring managers in person.
Also remember, networking doesn’t always have to be in person. By reaching out to hiring managers or fellow professionals directly (but gently) on social networks can also improve your chances of getting a job quickly. One good way is to join online social groups on Facebook or LinkedIn focused on careers in your industry. Here you’ll be likely to find lots of people searching for talent or where you can build connections by answering questions in your professional field.
Sometimes the first step to finding a new job is just saying it to people whose advice you trust. Arrange to talk to them, tell them you’re thinking of moving and what you’re looking for. If these people work in your industry, you can even ask them for advice on your resume or which contacts in the industry you should be talking to. Tell them what type of a company and in what area you’re looking to work and don’t forget to add: “If you happen to know anyone who I should connect with, please let me know!”
What Not to Do When Job Searching in a Hurry
We all make mistakes sometimes, especially when searching for jobs. In this high-pressure situation, it’s easy to slip up on occasions. However, when you’re trying to get a job with lightning speed, reducing the risks that might slow you down is critical. These faux-pas might include:
- Dressing inappropriately for interviews
- Discrediting or insulting your former employers
- Not being prepared for your interview
- Making spelling mistakes on the resume
- Showing you’re desperate to get the job
- Applying for jobs where you lack the basic qualifications
Getting hired fast is always easier with the right tools. No matter if your job search is well into its third month or you’re starting on day one, building an effective resume is always one of the best weapons in your arsenal. There’s no one perfect solution to getting hired fast. However, with a little work and, of course, a little luck, you can very easily streamline the process.
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