The internet has made it easier (and cheaper) to find out about and to apply for jobs. Two decades ago, job seekers had to scour Sunday classifieds, print resumes and cover letters on pricey stationery, place their documents in the mail, and repeat. However efficient the search process has become, the internet job search hasn’t made it any easier to land an interview. Automated software “judges” your resume based on keywords, rather than substance, and the sheer volume of applicants vying for the same position makes it difficult to stand out.
Working with a recruiter is an effective and efficient way to connect with your ideal opportunity. They can get you past the automated gatekeeper, they can sell you to a hiring manager before your interview, and they know about opportunities that are never posted on job boards. If you are looking to catch the attention of a niche recruiter in your field this year, follow these strategies.
Get Active On LinkedIn
If you aren’t spending time on LinkedIn, you’re doing yourself and your career a disservice. It is a highly active platform, and most successful recruiters spend time on LinkedIn every day. Make sure that your profile is up-to-date, that it utilizes keywords, and that you quantify your achievements. Join professional groups and contribute to discussions, and try to add new connections to your network each week.
If you are afraid your boss may figure out that you’ve got your mind on moving on, LinkedIn offers a feature called “Open Candidate” that lets you signal to recruiters that you are open to new opportunities without broadcasting it to the whole world. You can even specify the types of companies and roles that are ideal for you.
Become A Thought Leader
Great recruiters are internet savvy and spend time browsing the internet, looking for thought leaders in the field they recruit for. A professional website with a well-written blog that focuses on your niche can be a great way to catch the attention of people who can help you advance your career. Share your original content on LinkedIn and on a professional Twitter account. Make sure to follow other thought leaders and comment on their pieces, to encourage them to visit your site and engage with you, as well.
Network Locally
Yes, it is important to be active online, but you can’t neglect real-world connections. If you want to become a mover and a shaker in your field, you must get out and meet current movers and shakers. Join a professional organization in your field and attend meetings and mixers. Recruiters attend professional events in the hopes of building their own network of talent, and these can be great places to get your foot in the door with a successful recruiting firm. Drag a colleague with you the first few times if you are intimidated, but make it a goal to attend events on your own so that you are forced to actually meet new people.
You don’t have to wait for a recruiter to call you. If you are a Buffalo-area IT or finance professional looking accelerate your job search by working with a recruiter, reach out to the experts at Systems Personnel today.
What’s your next step?
Send us your resume today and one of our top recruiters will be in contact to help you find your next role.