Searching for a new job is a time-consuming process, one that involves researching open positions, completing job applications, interviewing, and waiting for responses from hiring managers. Some individuals, however, need immediate employment to pay for living expenses and other costs. When you need a job right now, there are some steps you can take that can maximize your job search efforts and get hired fast.
In this article, we explain how to get started if you need a job right now, along with tips to help your search.
8 Things to Do right now to secure a new job faster
Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting hired quickly if you need a job right now:
1. Refine your resume
When creating or updating your resume, include only the work experience that’s relevant to the job for which you’re applying. Hiring managers need to scan the document and quickly determine whether you’re a good fit for the job.
Update your skills and the terminology you use to describe job duties and accomplishments. Also, customize your resume for each job you apply to, using keywords and qualifications from the posting. Recruiters and applicant tracking systems look for these elements when reviewing resumes.
2. Apply for the right jobs
Rather than applying to every position that appears in job board search results, apply to only the ones you’re very well qualified to perform. This gives you a better chance of receiving an interview request for a job you might get. Use advanced search queries to narrow your search by title, location, keyword or other features.
3. Apply to many companies
Another strategy is to submit applications for as many positions as you qualify to get your resume in front of many hiring managers at once. Applying to many jobs is particularly effective if your professional network is small or has few leads.
Some job search boards allow you to upload your resume and apply for multiple jobs directly through that site. This saves you time filling out the same information for many applications.
4. Get references
Have references and recommendations prepared before you need them. This allows you to give hiring managers your references as soon as they ask for them. Individuals you might request recommendations from include managers, colleagues, professors, mentors, clients and vendors.5. Network
Networking can help you find job opportunities that fit your skills and experience perfectly, improving your chances of getting hired quickly. This strategy can also get you job referrals and introductions to the human resources personnel and recruiters making hiring decisions. Online and in-person networking methods include:
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Joining industry associations and attending member events
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Going to conferences, seminars and workshops
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Having lunch with former colleagues, managers and professors
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Attending industry webinars and asking the hosts questions
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Engaging industry members on social media
Create a list of the people you know professionally and personally, focusing mainly on those who work at companies or know people who work at companies where you want to work. Contact everyone on the list, and tell them you’re looking for a job right now.
If you know someone who can introduce you to a hiring manager or human resources employee, you have skipped a step in the job search process and are closer to getting an interview and a job offer.
6. Apply to companies even with no job listings
Research companies you want to work for that fit your skills, knowledge and goals. Check their careers pages, and email the careers or human resources contact even if they’re not hiring. If they reply and show interest, you likely don’t have to compete with a population of other candidates.
This strategy can be effective for several reasons. Sometimes companies are planning to post a job opening soon, and you contact them at the right time to get an interview. Others are expanding quickly and need talented employees to help them grow. Regardless of the reason, you can speed up the application and interview process and, if the situation is right, receive a quick job offer.
7. Consider contract work
Contract, freelance or temporary work can help you earn money while you’re searching for a full-time job. They can also give you skills and experience to add to your resume and more professionals to network with.
Independent contractors can usually start working immediately if they meet the client or company’s qualifications. Tell your employer you’re interested in career growth or a full-time job. If you perform well as a freelancer, you might eventually earn a job offer.
8. Follow up
If you haven’t received a response within a week or two of applying or interviewing for a job, email the hiring manager to follow up on your application. Show your appreciation for their time and reiterate your interest in the job. If you wait to get a response from a busy hiring manager, you might extend the time you spend searching for a job.
Tips when you need a job right now
How you search and apply for jobs, what your resume and cover letter say and how you present yourself in interviews can affect how quickly you get hired. If you need to get a job now, consider these tips to improve your chances of receiving a job offer:
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Get help with your resume. Ask a friend, family member or mentor to review your resume to make sure it reads well and has accurate spelling, punctuation and grammar. A well-written resume increases your chances of getting an interview request.
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Research while you wait. While waiting for interviews and job responses, read and learn about your industry so you can be up-to-date and knowledgeable when you get an interview.
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Look and act professionally. Make a positive first impression on hiring managers during job interviews by dressing appropriately, having good hygiene and giving genuine, thoughtful responses. Show your personality and answer questions using examples and stories rather than saying what you think the interviewer wants to hear.
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Practice good interview etiquette. How you behave and conduct yourself during an interview can affect the hiring manager’s impression of you and whether they want to work with you. Best practices for interview etiquette include only saying positive things about previous employers, being polite and respectful and conveying confidence.
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Think positively. Establish an optimistic mindset and think positive thoughts about the job search process. Doing so can improve your mood and confidence, which can give you an advantage during interviews.
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Be patient. Avoid rushing the job search process, even if you need to get a job now. By being thorough and patient, you can ensure your resume, cover letter and communications are accurate and professional.
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Develop your elevator pitch. Practice what you want hiring managers to know about you when they ask questions like, “Tell me about yourself.” Briefly communicate who you are, what you do and what makes you different from other applicants.
I hope you find this article helpful.
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