How to Get Noticed by Modesto Employers in a Tight Market
What are the most important things to focus on in your job search?
That is one big question!
Resumes to write? Where to send them? Contacts to make? How to interview? How to even score an interview? What to do when you get there? And the list goes on and on …
It all boils down to being noticed, in a favorable light, by prospective employers. And while every tool in your job hunt toolbox is important, two key areas are networking and skills development.
Connect on a personal level.
You should always be networking, but never is it more crucial than when you’re looking for a new job. Continuously forge, develop and nurture long-term relationships that can be mutually beneficial from a career standpoint. Effective networking can help you:
- Hear about job openings. Often, the best open positions are not publicly advertised but rather, communicated via in-person and online networks. Use every available platform for this purpose, including LinkedIn and other social media, conferences and other events, professional associations, and alumni groups.
- Gain new insights and perspectives. Asking for opinions from people you get to know and trust via networking can help you see things in a fresh new light, as well as hear their take on company and industry developments.
- Firm up your list of references. Yes, you do need to have such a list ready in case you are asked about it during an interview. Keep your list of references fresh and current. Networking helps as you continue to collect current information and build relationships.
- Get ongoing advice and support. Networking is a two-way street. It helps you get the advice of experienced peers and offers a venue to share information, suggestions and guidance. This can work to your mutual advantage as you continue to build your careers.
Hone the latest, greatest skills.
The skillset you need to attract top employers can be divided into two categories: hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills, aka technical skills, are those you will need to use to perform tasks related to a specific role. Examples include accounting, copywriting, data analysis, foreign language fluency, graphic design, IT, and mathematics.
Soft skills by comparison are interpersonal strengths and other personality traits that contribute to a good company cultural fit and are transferable from job to job and industry to industry. Among the most desirable soft skills are adaptability, communication, conflict resolution, decision-making, leadership, motivation, teamwork, and time management.
Discover a Hidden Job Market
It’s a lot to wrap your arms around, but working with PrideStaff Modesto, the right job for you is closer than you think. Our recruiters have deep roots in the local community and beyond, giving you wider access to opportunities you may not find on your own. And, we’ll work with you from start to finish to ensure your search is efficient, productive, and successful. Reach out to us today to learn more.
