The job search of today is different than when previous generations had to land the right job. Although, the age-old art of networking (especially within the hidden job market) is still one of the most useful ways to secure the perfect job, there are a variety of tools that can aid in your search.
Knowing how to make the best use of tools such as LinkedIn, job boards such as Indeed.com, and even Facebook and Twitter can maximize your return on time invested. Navigating new tools and tips touting job search advantages, can leave you feeling overwhelmed. In reality, the tools you may already be familiar with can produce great results without having to start from scratch.
Search Smart on LinkedIn
“The number one way to get hired today is by snagging a referral from someone you know who works for an employer with a job opening. The LinkedIn ‘discover jobs in your network’ feature has made that task a whole lot easier,” says Forbes contributor, Deborah L. Jacobs.
Making the most of your LinkedIn profile is crucial. You want to add as much value as possible and don’t be afraid to show some personality. Completely sanitizing your profile may lead to a workplace where you don’t fit in.
“If you erase any color, your employer won’t learn anything interesting about you. And if you hide causes you’re truly passionate about, you might do yourself a disservice,” says CBS Money Watch contributor, Amy Levin-Epstein.
Make the Most of Online Newspapers
Most major-city publications, such as the Chicago Tribune, have a section on their website specifically for open positions. Even if the site is subscription-based, you don’t have to pay a fee to apply for them. Simply create an account and you’ll have instant free access to the job listings. You can search by location and a variety of categories to help make it easier to find a specific career path.
Optimize the Use of Job Boards
There’s more to using online job boards than initially meets the eye. You can be quite advanced in your searching if you know how to navigate the platform.
“SimplyHired.com has a useful tool called, “Who do I know?” If you’re on LinkedIn, and you should be, this tool will instantly display your LinkedIn contacts with connections to various job listings. ‘Who do I know’ also syncs with Facebook,” says Forbes contributor, Susan Adams.
Websites that focus on job seeking offer helpful tools for those wanting to stay in-the-know about certain job openings, but don’t necessarily have the time to sift through the seemingly endless job opportunities out there.
Many job boards have mobile apps to make searching on your smartphone or tablet that much easier.
The job search can be challenging regardless of the tools you employ. However, finding the right position becomes much easier when you know how to use the right tools.
This article originally appeared on Clear Focus Financial Search.