Avoid the Black Hole

A Job Search is a Multi-Faceted Project

Have you ever felt that applying for jobs is like submitting your resume to a big black hole?  It can certainly feel that way — especially if your strategy is limited to scanning job boards and clicking the “easy apply” button.

Finding your next role goes far beyond having a resume and filling out applications. A successful job search is a project: it requires a plan, clear priorities and the ability to juggle a variety of non-linear tactics at the same time.  Relying on only one channel leaves far too much to chance.

Researching and Planning: Choose the Right Mountain to ClimbAs you set out on this journey, make sure you have a clear plan and the tools to support you.

• Be clear about the type of role you want and how your career goals, skills and experience align with what’s required to be successful.

  
  

• Target roles and industries that truly match your interests and goals — not just what’s available.

• Create a narrative for yourself that succinctly explains who you are, what matters to you and what you want to accomplish.  Use this narrative as the foundation for your resume, cover letter, updates to your LinkedIn profile.

• Diversify your search. Explore LinkedIn, niche job boards aligned to your interests (idealist.org, Wellfound, FlexJobs, Dice, professional associations, company and university alumni sites), as well as company career pages.

• When you find roles that suit your interests, do your home work: understand the company’s mission, values, leadership, recent news and how the role fits into the big picture.

Good research distinguishes you as a thoughtful intentional candidate with a point of view and “skin in the game.”

Connecting and Visibility: Do Not Go It Alone

Statistics indicate that 70% or more of roles are filled through some form of professional or personal connection.  It is important that you invest your time in cultivating current and new relationships to increase your access and exposure to new opportunities.

• Take stock of of your professional and personal contacts and compile a list of people who can support you as advisors, connectors, or industry guides. Re-connect and stay in touch with disciplined schedule of calls and coffee talks.

• Identify hiring managers at companies that interest you.  Use LinkedIn to see whether you have first= or second-degree connections who could facilitate introductions.

• Be visible. Attend industry events, alumni gatherings, professional meetups, volunteer activities, and social events. Even casual conversations can lead to important new connections and opportunities.
  

Connections don’t replace your qualifications, but they dramatically increase the odds that your story is remembered and circulated.

Applications: Quality beats QuantityIt’s really important to invest in your applications.  Spend time to ensure your application stands out. Getting 1-2 applications out per day is fine, if you optimize them.

• Read job descriptions thoroughly and map the requirements to your resume. Make sure it is easy for the hiring manager to see the person they are looking for in your resume and cover letter.  

• Submit cover letters.They are often optional — but they can’t hurt you. A good cover letter adds context and sharpens your value proposition.

• Put your research to good use. Reference details about the company’s mission or culture to show genuine interest and fit.

• Leverage your network and connections. Don’t just click “easy apply”—look for someone who can refer you, walk your resume to the hiring manager, or introduce you directly.

Like any new adventure, you need a combination of navigational tools to avoid the “black holes.”  With good planning, intentional strategy and a community of support, you will experience a journey that has direction, momentum, and a destination that truly fits you.