10 Ways to Job Search (Beyond Just Applying Online)

Is your job search feeling like this picture? If it is, I am sorry. It can be exhausting, especially when you’re sending out applications and hearing nothing back or getting an impersonal email weeks later. Don’t fall into the trap of only responding to adverts and doing applications though - there are other ways to create opportunities and I’ve listed ten actions below that I hope help you.

1. Get clear on your professional identity
   Instead of firing off applications in every direction, take a step back. Define your key skills, strengths, and what you actually want. A focused, deliberate approach for 5 applications beats sending 100 generic applications.

2. Make new connections in your target industry/occupation

   The best way to understand what’s happening in your field is …. talking to people!
   ~ Ring recruiters.
   ~ Connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn - yes even cold.
   ~ Request a quick chat saying "I’d love to learn more about your role and career path, what you are doing looks interesting - would you be open to a short conversation"?

3. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is working for you
   95% of recruiters use LinkedIn to find candidates. If your profile doesn’t include keywords and skills or show who you are and what you can do, you won’t be seen. Now is the right time to lean in to LinkedIn and maximise the opportunities it presents, it’s time to build your brand. Be sure to to turn on the private "Open to Work" setting too so recruiters know you're available.

4. Connect with your existing network
   Now is not the time to go silent. Let former colleagues, friends, and your gym or tennis buddies know you're looking. You’re not asking for a job, you’re asking for advice maybe or for them to keep you in mind if they hear of anything. Believe it or not a lot of people want to help you.

5. Look after your mental and physical health
   This should really be #1. Job searching is tough and emotionally draining - you are effectively asking the labour market “who wants me”? This is vulnerable stuff. Without the usual structure of work, positive feedback, and belonging to a team and organisation, it’s easy to feel isolated. But your energy and confidence matter in this process. Things that may help include..

   • Setting a daily routine.

   • Getting outside in nature and move often.

   • Reminding yourself that your job does not define your worth.

   • Committing to your own mental fitness and trying to find things daily to celebrate and enjoy.

6. Contact companies directly
   If there's a company you’d love to work for, don’t wait for a job ad. I once worked with a client who had his whole life dreamed of working in aviation so we spent time getting very creative about how he could make that happen. Who would you like to work for? Send a short, thoughtful message explaining why you’re interested and how you could contribute. Try to forge a connection and learn more.

7. Consider adding to your skill set
   AI literacy is now one of the most in-demand skills according to Linkedin. Could this be something you explore adding to your skillset? If not, what additional learning would strengthen your offering? Free and affordable courses are available on Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Google, and FutureLearn. This LinkedIn post lists free sustainability related courses, what a brilliant addition to your offering that might just be the differentiator.

8. Volunteer strategically
   Volunteering can help you build new connections, gain experience, and sometimes even lead to paid work. Plus, it gets you out of the house and involved in something meaningful.

9. Show up at industry events
   MIT research suggests in-person networking increases job opportunities 10x more than online applications. Look for professional meetups, business networking groups, or industry webinars.

10. Consider short-term, temp, or freelance work
    Freelancing or contract work can keep money coming in while expanding your experience and connections. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal can help.

Momentum creates opportunities so keep taking actions and moving forward, one conversation, one application, and one new connection at a time.

To all the job seekers out there, you are doing a great job, stay on course and believe in possibilities.✨🌟💫⭐

Career Coaches can support you at this time too - help you create strategy, stay positive and motivated and hold you accountable. Now might be a good time to get some support too.