<div><p>Here are the basics:</p></div>
1. Get To Know Yourself
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYxMjA5MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNTIyNDkwNn0.4L0fVeIlb-7Ry1TQz0fpBk3FpsMLFS9ykJ64XfQx-YQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="81ec1" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a9f2e1246df99bbb76c9eb4baef7244e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Man comes up with an effective job search strategy" /><p><span style="background-color: initial;">Before starting a job search, getting to know more about who you are and what you're looking for is critical. Write down what your hobbies and inter<del></del>est are, <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/st/quiz" target="_blank">take a self-assessment</a>, and be sure to utilize aides like these <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/resources" target="_blank">free career resources</a>. </span><br></p>
2. Ensure Your Job Application Is Professional & Highlights Your Skills
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYxMjEwNi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMDA2MDEyM30.nsp2jggR0MXGJtrz-RlW0JSX85ohiMJZa09TL-jGQ4U/img.jpg?width=980" id="2c873" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="218b4b5ed3ff2dd00ba48d26faad3166" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Woman follows effective job search tips while submitting her resume" /><p>Your job application includes your resume, cover letter, portfolio (if applicable), and LinkedIn profile. All of these are very important to your job search.<br></p><p><strong>Your Resume</strong></p><p>This must be well-written and organized in a way where a potential reader can quickly see what sets you apart from other candidates. Identify what skills you have, <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/quantify-work-experience-on-resume" target="_blank">quantify those skills and accomplishments on your resume</a>, and customize your resume for each position you are applying for. By doing so, you'll show employers a glimpse of the value you could bring to their organization, and your resume will be more likely to <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/get-resume-past-ats" target="_blank">get past the ATS</a> (Applicant Tracking Systems).</p><p><strong>Your Cover Letter</strong></p><p><span></span>It's not enough to write a cookie-cutter cover letter anymore. For an effective job search, <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/writing-disruptive-cover-letter" target="_blank">write a disruptive cover letter</a> for every job application you send out. It should tell a story and demonstrate why you would be a good fit for their organization.</p><p><strong>Your Portfolio</strong></p><p>Not everyone will need a portfolio, but if you are in a field that requires examples of your work, a portfolio is crucial to your job search. Include a digital portfolio of your best work—employers want to pre-screen your work before they decide to call you in for an interview.</p><p><span></span><strong>Your LinkedIn Profile</strong></p><p>If you are not on LinkedIn you don't exist in the employment world. The vast majority of employers use LinkedIn to recruit new employees. Make sure that your <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/how-to-get-started-on-linkedin" target="_blank">LinkedIn profile is optimized</a> and the information listed matches what you have on your resume. </p>
3. Establish A Brand
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYxMjM0Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwNDc5OTUwM30.IrGiRoAP1Xg905zV2417Z-fLrUCfzyTRh6LViCAJ9aw/img.jpg?width=980" id="f4968" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ce52e4c5c233254c3cb7438529aff978" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Man establishes a brand for an effective job search" /><p>Your brand is formed in various ways including in-person, social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram), and on personal websites and correspondence. You always want to leave a good impression on others, no matter if it happens in-person or online.</p><p>That's why tip #1 is so important to <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/personal-branding-tips" target="_blank">personal branding</a>. You must know what you are good at. You also need to know what skills and expertise you possess that you want to leave with people. This will become your brand.</p><p>If you perfect the art of personal branding, employers will initiate contact with you.<br></p>
4. Network Frequently
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYxMjM3Mi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NTYzMjcyMX0.MQIwAMlx6E2vznlvfqeZGsVcI0xpqzFsRFUHJL77BM4/img.jpg?width=980" id="4ddbe" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="0c316bc4bce8b23674ebd76ce6cb38b5" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Woman networks for an effective job search" /><p>The first place to start when searching for employment is your personal network (former co-workers, family, friends, church members, and even friends on social media). These are the people that know you the best, and will be more willing to refer you for an open position.</p><p>You must make networking a regular part of your activities, though, not just something you do during a job search. Join organizations related to your field of choice, attend <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/conversation-starters-networking-events" target="_blank">networking events</a>, and become active on LinkedIn and other social media platforms. Do what works best for you and be sure to have balance.<br></p>
5. Target Desired Companies & Positions
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYxMjM1Ni9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyOTg0OTA2MX0.UAu9VD2vhoiAdpG5x8B-2V45c9bUdzKfGFXwrXEC-wo/img.jpg?width=980" id="23662" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="38def5c20a5dc19b45cfc410ae97a764" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Man targets companies for an effective job search" /><p><span style="background-color: initial;">Target positions that you would like to have and companies that offer those types of positions, then see if you have any connections to company insiders (referrals are the leading source for obtaining interviews).</span></p><p><span style="background-color: initial;">How do you figure out which companies to target? Create an interview bucket list—a list of 10 to 20 companies that you would love to work for that also hire for your skill sets.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: initial;">Be proactive and <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/how-to-find-hiring-manager" target="_blank">contact hiring managers</a>, even when there aren't open positions posted on their company websites. Introduce yourself and see if you can obtain an <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/how-to-set-up-an-informational-interview" target="_blank">informational interview</a> to find out more about the company and what they look for in candidates.</span><br></p>
6. Create Job Search Plans & Strategies
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYxMjM3NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNDU1MzgyMn0.L-TOcexQYnx5OsC_ZcSwnxNUzn_KaVZNSY5NW7hX-Xw/img.jpg?width=980" id="17774" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="6645dc7165d5cdbaef9651c732d9c905" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Woman executes an effective job search strategy" /><p><span style="background-color: initial;">After you've targeted the companies that you feel passionate about working for, put together a plan that will allow you to get closer to <a href="https://workitdaily.lpages.co/how-to-get-job-skillset/" target="_blank">getting hired</a> at one of them.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: initial;">Regularly evaluate your plans and strategies and stick with things that have had positive results. If what you are doing is not bringing results, it's time to try a new approach.</span><br></p>
7. Follow Up With Employers
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYxMjM3MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNzE2NDgzM30.FzFSTkW7wbGWX3QGVHcZau1A9JXqzfoAYChbO2Xb6U8/img.jpg?width=980" id="36edf" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="127c8ed7dd876d4b8315255fde6a4d18" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Man follows up with employers during his job search" /><p><span style="background-color: initial;">Once you have taken the steps to apply or inquire about a position, <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/how-to-follow-up-after-interview" target="_blank">follow up with employers</a>. Send a quick note that reiterates your passion for the company and desire to work there, and share an interesting article or video that you think they would find interesting. </span>It's about providing value in the little ways that you can to strengthen the connection.</p><p>The goal is to stay at the forefront of the hiring manager's mind so when they need to fill an open position, you'll be at the top of their list to contact first. </p>
8. Increase Your Marketability While You Search
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYxMjM3NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMjIxODgwMX0.vi6jmlYPqqieTjXGL0rfVK8RcUNUN1TMqaZ3y_fxchE/img.jpg?width=980" id="dccf1" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b00403980cae05ec54d36f8b431fe303" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Woman researches effective job search tips" /><p><span style="background-color: initial;">Don't get comfortable with your accomplishments. Continue to increase your skills and experience while you are conducting your job search—and even when you are employed.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: initial;">Like we say at Work It Daily, if you're not growing, you're dying. Seek <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/professional-development-tips" target="_blank">professional development</a> opportunities to make yourself more marketable to employers. Work on your career every day. To truly stand out in a competitive job market, you can't afford to think you have what it takes to get hired. </span><br></p><p><span style="background-color: initial;">Always be looking for opportunities to grow your career!</span></p>
<a href="https://workitdaily.lpages.co/workitdaily-job-search-checklist/" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzYwNDczMC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyOTg5NjkyMX0.ru4MFgdp0_IFMxbpqX0FVLP96Gd28iMeOIPKlRoto3I/img.png?width=980" id="7f66a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="c87e03a010471b3fee58afb7c59f1039" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Download Work It Daily\u2019s free job search checklist" /></a><p>In order to conduct an effective job search, it's important to follow the tips above.</p><p>School doesn't teach us how to get the job. So, don't be so hard on yourself! You can, and will, find a job. Give these steps a try and see how much of a difference it makes in your job search. </p><p><br></p><p><strong>Need more job search help?</strong></p><p>Join our <a href="https://workitdaily.lpages.co/pricing/" target="_blank">career growth club</a> today and get access to one-on-one career coaching, resume and cover letter reviews, online tutorials, and unlimited networking opportunities—all in your back pocket!</p><p>If you want FREE career advice in your inbox, <a href="https://www.workitdaily.com/career-advice-newsletter" target="_self">subscribe to our newsletter</a> The Daily Dose!</p><p><br></p><p><em>This post was originally published at an earlier date.</em></p>
