The current job market is highly competitive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 7.2 million job openings in the United States, with about 6 million hires as of July 2019. With numbers like these, it is no wonder that many job seekers are looking for any edge they can get to help them land the job they want.
One way to give yourself a leg up on the competition is by using technology in your job search. There are many ways you can use technology to improve your chances of getting hired. Here are some ways to do so:
Stay Connected
In today’s business world, it’s essential to stay connected. You never know when you’ll need to reach out to a potential employer or networking contact. By visiting connected, you can make sure you’re always in the loop and able to take advantage of opportunities as they arise.
There are a few ways you can stay connected using technology. One way is to use a service like LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a professional networking site that allows you to connect with other professionals in your field. You can use LinkedIn to find job openings, networking events, and more.
Another way to stay connected is by using social media. Many employers use social media to post job openings and promote their company culture. By following potential employers on social media, you can stay up-to-date on what they’re looking for in a candidate.
You can also use technology to stay connected with your network. You can use email, instant messaging, and video conferencing to keep in touch with your contacts. This way, you can always be prepared when an opportunity arises.
Do Your Research
Before you apply for a job, it’s essential to do your research. You should research the company, the position, and the industry. Doing so can make sure you’re a good fit for the job. According to LinkedIn’s Business Employer Brand Statistics, 75 percent of job applicants will do their research about a firm’s reputation before applying. It’s essential to make sure you’re one of them.
There are many ways you can use technology to do your research. One way is to use search engines. It’s an easy way to learn about a company’s culture, values, and mission. You can also look for news articles about the company and the industry.
But sometimes, you might find it helpful to go beyond the internet. You can talk to people who work for the company or the industry or attend events to learn more about what it’s like to work in the field.
Work on Personal Branding
Have you ever done a quick search about yourself online? What did you find? Like most people, you probably saw some old posts on social media or articles you’ve written. But if you’re job hunting, you should ensure your online presence is more professional.
Personal branding is creating and promoting a professional image of yourself online. It’s essential to do this if you want employers to take you seriously. You want them to see that you’re a competent professional with the skills and experience they’re looking for.
There are many ways you can work on your branding. One of the best strategies is to focus on Search Engine Optimization (SEO). You can tailor your online presence so that it’s more likely to show up when employers search for candidates with your skills.
If you’re unsure how to get started, you can seek support from a reliable SEO agency. These agencies can help you create and maintain a professional online presence. Thus, you can improve your chances of getting hired.
Use Job Search Engines
There are many job search engines, and they can be a great way to find job openings that match your skills. Simply enter your desired position and location, and you’ll get a list of available jobs.
Indeed, Monster and Glassdoor are the most popular job search engines. They’re all free to use, so you can start your search without spending any money. But while these job search engines are a great resource, you shouldn’t rely on them exclusively. Many employers don’t post their job openings on these sites. So, other job search strategies, such as networking and personal branding, are still essential.
Technology has made it easier to get a headstart on your career. You can improve your chances of getting hired by staying up to date with the latest news, doing your research, working on your branding, and using job search engines. So take advantage of these tools and resources to give yourself a boost in your career journey.
