So, how long does it take to find a new job?  I have heard this question a lot over the past year.

The answer to this question is unknown as data, statistics and personal success is difficult to quantify when comparing the total population of people interviewing. Perhaps a better question would be “What can I do to improve my chances of finding a job as quick as possible”? or “What can I do to improve my chances of finding a job”?

Everyone has a different level of background, experience, skill set, etc… So following the basics of job hunting is key. Here are the key areas to any successful job search:

Target Job

When looking for a job, it is important to know what that looks like. What do I mean? I am talking about knowing what you want to do. If you have no idea what job you are looking for and are open to “anything” your chances of success for finding a job decrease. Targeting your job search is the most important part of finding a job as you will be able to sell yourself better.

Resume

Targeting your resume for a specific job will land you more interviews. Check out my article on How to Build a Winning Resume, take some time and seriously analyze your resume.

Job Search Techniques

How you look for a job does matter. If you are currently unemployed or are looking to transition into the IT career field as entry level, there are certain steps you can take to make yourself marketable. If you are still in school, I strongly encourage internship opportunities – even unpaid if necessary. Internships are great opportunities to gain experience for resume building. Internships also open doors for networking with IT people and can lead to full time job opportunities. Entry level contract positions in IT are also a great way to get into the IT field. Networking with people is key in IT, you never know when you will need a connection in the future.

Job boards are great places to post resumes, make sure you document all of your skills (any and every software or computing language is valuable) for Boolean keyword searches by prospective employers. Also, if you read my article on How to Build a Winning Resume, you will know to follow my guidelines of providing relevant information first with a targeted summary. Everything “above-the-fold” on the first page gets looked at whereas everything else is ignored when managers are screening resumes.

When applying on job boards, it is important to apply with resumes that are specific. If and when it gets looked at, it will increase the chance of getting an interview.

Interview Preparation

When preparing for the interview, study the job description, study the company’s website and anything else you can get your hands on. You will want to understand what they do and why the position you are interviewing for is important. Knowing that the position you are interviewing is important will better prepare how to sell yourself and why you are the best candidate for the job.

Always overdress for the job, even if they tell you it is a casual day and you can dress down – DONT BE TEMPTED. If you show up as business casual, you will look like everyone else. Dress professional – suit with a tie.

Check out more great content at my Minneapolis Recruiter blog