5 things you can do if you are job seeking right now

September is often considered the month of new beginnings; the summer nights are closing in, the children are preparing to go back to school and many professionals start looking for new opportunities. Often the job market gets busier during the Autumn months, so it is essential to be ahead of the game when it comes to job seeking and securing a new role.

Here are 5 things you can do if you are job seeking right now:

1. Create an applicant tracking-compliant CV

It is estimated that over 60% employers and recruiters use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). ATS software provides recruiting and hiring tools which can collect and sort thousands of CVs based on keywords, then shortlists them in terms of how they meet the criteria. Therefore, it is essential that your CV is tailored and relevant to the role that you are applying for. You will need to think about the key words in the job specification and ensure they are included in your CV.

2.  Develop an All-Star LinkedIn Profile

In a remote world, LinkedIn is an increasingly important space for networking, building relationships, uncovering opportunities and thinking about your career moving forward. A LinkedIn profile allows you to create an online professional brand which showcases your profile, expertise, recommendations and connections.

According to LinkedIn, profiles with an All-Star rating are 27 times more likely to be found in recruiter searches. Surprisingly, only 51% of users have an All-Star status. Developing an All-Star LinkedIn profile is essential and can be achieved by completing each section of your profile with your profile picture, experience, key skills.

3.  Implement a strategy for your job search

Developing a strategy is key for a job search as there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach. There are four ways that candidates typically search for their next career – making online applications, networking, speculative approaching employers or utilising recruiters. Job seekers should consider each to maximise their chances of success.

Make the most out of your job search by planning your search on a day to day basis. Creating a timetable will keep your days varied and put you in control of your search. Allow time for following up applications, factor in exercise and getting out for some fresh air. Using a variety of job searching methods will lead to success.

4.  Prepare for a quick turn around

The current job market is experiencing fast-paced hiring; in some cases, organisations are finding candidates, interviewing them remotely and onboarding them soon after. Job seekers should get ready in several ways.

Firstly, have an ‘elevator pitch’ ready to quickly explain who you are and what your unique selling point is to anyone who displays interest in you or your application. Start to prepare for an interview as soon as you apply for a role. Pre-empt the questions you will be asked and start to plan and practice your responses in advance.

5.  Be in charge of your own onboarding

With the increase of home and hybrid working, job seekers should be ready to take charge of how they integrate in a remote environment.

The first 90 days of any job are crucial, therefore it is beneficial to have a 90 day plan that will demonstrate how you can do the job, to alleviate any potential concerns your employer may have, reinforcing your suitability for the role. Consider the stakeholders you want to meet and how you can engage with them in a remote setting. Think about where to add immediate value, the skills where you are confident in and those where you may need more support or mentoring. Finally, consider how to integrate into a new role from a technological perspective so that all the equipment is ready.

Renovo is the UK’s leading outplacement and career transition specialist. We work with both organisations and individuals to support all their career transition requirements. If you would like to understand how Renovo can help you please call 0800 612 2011 or email info@renovo.co.uk