12 tips I wish I knew before my last job search

1. Use an ATS-optimized CV template. If you need one, get access to a free template here.

2. Get all-star status on your LinkedIn profile (40x more likely to receive job opportunities). Follow these steps to achieve all-star status. 

3. Focus your CV on transferable skills (Team Work, Leadership, Management, Critical Thinking, Communication, Problem Solving, Adaptability).

4. On your CV, back up all of your key skills with examples and include results with numerical data (figures/data/%) where possible.

5. Use TagCrowd.com to find keywords from the job description, and ensure your CV has the most prominent words included with context. This will help you get by the ATS.

6. After applying for the job online track down the hiring manager's email and send them your CV directly to ensure your application doesn't get lost in the pile.

7. Connect with the hiring manager on LinkedIn. Add a note on your connection request that cites your application + briefly mentions why you believe you're qualified for the job.

8. Network and engage daily on LinkedIn to increase your visibility to recruiters. Comment insightfully on posts.

9. Save the job description after you apply to help you prepare for the interview.

10. To prepare for interview questions that are likely to be asked, turn each requirement on the job description into a "Name a time" question. Ex. If the job requires you to handle new business calls, a question to prepare for would be: "Name a time when you handled new business calls."

11. Keep applying for jobs between interviews. Never put all of your eggs in one basket.

12. It's easier said than done but don't take anything personally on your job hunt. Everyone you know has been rejected for a job.

If you're on the job hunt, good luck my friend 🍀