A successful job search requires a strategic approach. This module will cover various job search techniques and how to tailor your approach to your specific career transition goals.
a) What is the hidden job market?
• Jobs that aren't advertised publicly
• Positions filled through networking or internal referrals
• Estimated to account for 70-80% of job placements
b) Advantages of tapping into the hidden job market:
• Less competition
• Higher quality opportunities
• Faster hiring process
• Better fit with company culture
c) Strategies for accessing hidden jobs:
• Networking (covered in Module 5)
• Direct outreach to companies
• Leveraging alumni connections
• Engaging with professional associations
a) Popular job boards:
• General: Indeed, LinkedIn Jobs, Glassdoor
• Industry-specific boards
• Local job boards
b) Tips for using job boards effectively:
• Use specific keywords related to your target role
• Set up job alerts to save time
• Research companies before applying
• Tailor your application for each job
c) Other online resources:
• Company career pages
• Professional association job listings
• Government job sites
• Freelance platforms (if relevant)
a) Types of recruitment agencies:
• Generalist agencies
• Specialist/niche agencies
• Executive search firms
• Temporary staffing agencies
b) Benefits of working with recruiters:
• Access to unadvertised jobs
• Industry insights and advice
• Assistance with interview preparation
• Salary negotiation support
c) How to engage with recruiters:
• Research agencies specialising in your field
• Prepare your CV and LinkedIn profile
• Be clear about your career goals
• Maintain regular communication
• Be professional and responsive
a) Creating a target company list:
• Identify companies that align with your values and goals
• Research company culture, growth, and stability
• Consider company size and industry position
b) Strategies for approaching target companies:
• Follow them on social media and engage with their content
• Attend company events or webinars
• Connect with current employees
• Send speculative applications
c) Researching target companies:
• Company websites and annual reports
• News articles and press releases
• Glassdoor reviews
• LinkedIn company pages
a) Elements of a job search plan:
• Clear goals and timeline
• Daily and weekly tasks
• Tracking system for applications and follow-ups
• Networking activities
• Skill development efforts
b) Time management for job searching:
• Set aside dedicated job search time
• Break tasks into manageable chunks
• Use productivity tools (e.g., Trello, Asana)
• Schedule breaks to avoid burnout
c) Measuring progress:
• Track key metrics (applications submitted, interviews secured)
• Regularly review and adjust your strategy
• Celebrate small wins along the way
a) Active strategies:
• Applying for advertised positions
• Direct outreach to companies
• Attending job fairs and networking events
b) Passive strategies:
• Optimising your LinkedIn profile for recruiter searches
• Sharing industry-relevant content online
• Maintaining an updated online portfolio
c) Creating a balanced approach:
• Allocate time for both active and passive strategies
• Adjust based on market conditions and personal circumstances
• Be prepared to act quickly on opportunities
Hidden Job Market Outreach:
◦ Identify 5 companies you'd like to work for that aren't currently advertising relevant positions
◦ Draft a speculative application letter for one of these companies
Job Board Efficiency:
◦ Set up job alerts on 2-3 relevant job boards using targeted keywords
◦ Identify 3 industry-specific job boards or professional associations with job listings in your field
Recruiter Engagement:
◦ Research and list 3 recruitment agencies specialising in your target industry
◦ Prepare a brief email introducing yourself to one of these agencies
Target Company Research:
◦ Create a list of 10 target companies
◦ For each company, note:
▪ Key values or mission statements
▪ Recent news or developments
▪ Potential networking connections (e.g., alumni, LinkedIn connections)
Job Search Action Plan:
◦ Create a weekly schedule allocating time for different job search activities (e.g., applications, networking, skill development)
◦ Set 3 SMART goals for your job search over the next month
◦ Develop a system for tracking your applications and follow-ups
Balancing Strategies:
◦ List 3 active and 3 passive job search strategies you'll employ
◦ Create a plan to implement one new strategy from each category in the coming week
By completing this activity, you'll have a comprehensive job search strategy tailored to your career transition goals. Remember to regularly review and adjust your approach based on results and changing circumstances.