You’ve decided you want to start looking for a new job. But where do you even begin? There’s a lot to consider, and the process can quickly become overwhelming if you’re not taking the right steps. The best way to describe job hunting is it’s like a roller coaster—you’ll face a lot of wins and losses along the way, but that makes landing that one job at the end even more rewarding.
As a new grad who’s recently been through the process herself, here are some of the best tips I have for setting yourself up for success in your job search.
1. Set up Job Alerts on LinkedIn
Like most job seekers out there, you’re probably using LinkedIn as one of your platforms, and creating job alerts is something worth considering. You can set multiple job alerts for specific job titles in locations you’re interested in, which is extra helpful if you’re searching for jobs in other states. You can even set alerts for specific companies too if there’s a brand you’ve always dreamed of working for. These alerts can be sent weekly or daily and they include a small roundup of recommended new jobs based on your preferences. It takes a little bit of work out of the process and it’s a great way to see any recent job postings that you might’ve missed the first time around.
2. Create a Set Number of Jobs You Want to Apply For Every Week
You might be tempted to sit down and send out 20+ job applications all at once, but you’ll only burn yourself out faster if you do that. Instead, spread your job searching out by creating a set number of jobs you want to apply for every week. Whether it’s one application a day or 5 applications every week, create a goal that works best for you. This way, you’re keeping yourself accountable, applying to a ton of jobs consistently, and setting time aside for it without overwhelming yourself.
3. Don’t Forget to Take a Break
Between filling out those lengthy applications, scouring the internet for open positions, and prepping for multiple rounds of interviews, landing that perfect position is basically like a full-time job. With that said, it’s incredibly important to take a regular break. How often you take one all depends on your own “job search stamina,” but it’ll prevent you from getting burnt out, which happens more often than you think it might! You may also feel guilty for taking a step back from job searching, but remember, all the job openings will still be there when you get back.
4. Keep a Record of All Your Past Interview Questions
If you’re applying to a lot of similar positions, you’ll most likely be asked similar questions. This is where keeping a record of your past interview questions comes in handy. After every interview, write down as many questions as you can remember. Organize them in a document or a spreadsheet (I recommended a spreadsheet!), and take note of the job title, company, and which interview round it was. When you need to prep for an interview, pull out your record of these questions and use them to help you get ready. Over time, you’ll start to see a pattern or an overlap of what you’re being asked, which serves as a helpful hint as to what kind of questions you may be asked in your next interview.
5. Follow Career Accounts on TikTok
You ever hear that phrase, “TikTok has taught me more than school?” It’s really true what everyone says, especially when it comes to job searching. I have gotten my best job search tips from TikTok, and if you’re not already on it, get on CareerTok! Some of my favorite career accounts to follow are Cynthia Huang, Erin Mcgoff, Jackie Caves, David Paykin, and Career Coach Darci. They’re the perfect go-to resources for all things career-related because they’re either recruiters themselves or have years of career experience under their belts. And if you have specific questions about your current job searching process, they’re pretty responsive when you reach out to them in their comments, lives, and DM’s.
I know, job searching is a grueling process. It’s not meant to be easy, but remember, all it takes is that one yes. Until then, keep at it!
