The rules for finding a job once seemed clear and unwavering: all you had to do was to capture your career highlights in a CV, practice answers to standard interview questions, and do lots of face-to-face networking. Nowadays, these rules have changed. This is why today’s savvy job seeker should know how to use new job hunting strategies that actually work. This new approach to getting hired requires new skills. In this two-part blog post, we will explain what new skills every successful job seeker should have.
1. Revamping your CV
First, you’ll need to write a new CV demonstrating your skills in a more ingenious manner. According to the Bayt.com ‘
Modern Job Search in the MENA’ poll, November 2013, a short and concise CV that is no longer than one page is the preferred format for the majority of MENA professionals responsible for hiring (42.5%). A medium-length CV is also a suitable option, with 38% of professionals who make hiring decisions finding it ideal. Only 19% prefer a detailed, lengthy CV. As far as CV content goes, experience is considered to be the most important element (with 25% saying it is most important), followed by skills (19%). Less important are education at 10%, a career objective statement at 7%, and lastly, any awards, badges and endorsements – all at 6%.
Developing a new CV is no easy task. The harder you work on your CV, the more effective it will be, so make sure you set aside plenty of time for this step. Many people struggle to promote themselves on their CVs. Rather than making a list of duties you have been responsible for, talk about achievements. On Bayt.com, you can create multiple CVs – so make use of this powerful option and always send different CVs to different employers. (More
tips to create a killer CV that will get you noticed).
2. Developing a purpose
Wake each morning with a purpose for your day. Apply the same rigor to the job search as you would apply to a full-time job by creating structure in your day. Sure you have extra time on your hands now that you are unemployed, but you will be amazed at how much you can do in a day if you are well-organized. Create a job search plan with goals and small, manageable steps. Then set priorities, structure your day, and treat finding a job like an actual job.
3. Staying up-to-date
Take advantage of learning opportunities to improve your job search and career management skills. Keeping informed of business trends will help you gain greater knowledge of the industries and careers that are important to you. Stay plugged into the regional job market updates by keeping an eye on Bayt.com’s
Research Reports, and make sure that you are always current by subscribing to our
Blog.
4. Documenting your job search
Keep all your job search activities documented in a spreadsheet, including the jobs you’ve applied for, the companies you’ve contacted, and any other jobs you might be interested in. This will help you stay on track and never keep your goal out of sight.
5. Socializing
Continually grow your network and keep expanding your contact database. Reach out to re-establish and nourish business and personal relationships. There is no substitute for connecting with people, so stay connected and don’t isolate yourself. Being out of work doesn’t mean you have to be out of reach, so be sure to build and maintain your network. You never know who knows who; someone you meet today could know someone with a job that is perfect for you! In fact, 34.5% of MENA professionals have found their last jobs through friends and family (The Bayt.com ‘
Employee Retention in the MENA Workplace’ poll, February 2013).
6. Connecting with other professionals
Supplement your physical networking with online networking. Use web sites and online professional platforms, like Bayt.com Specialties, to connect with your industry and to build greater visibility. In addition to leveraging career portals and job boards, learn how to use online tools like blogs, wikis, and virtual job fairs. Focus on optimizing your online identity.
...Part II is on its way. Stay tuned!
