Finding jobs you want

- Finding a job is rarely the problem people come to me with which is a strong sign that we all know how and where to search. It's never been easier to connect to opportunities than doing a LinkedIn or Google search, checking industry job boards and networking with colleagues past and present. The main goal as you search for jobs is to go back to your job-hunting objective. Which jobs meet your criteria? If you're finding yourself sending out 20 resumes a day, you're probably trending toward anything will do territory. So be selective, search for keywords that tie to your skills. Search by locations you'd be willing to live and work in. Don't do a job search in New York if you don't actually want to live there. Scan the websites of your dream companies every few months also, who's hiring and where in their business? Make sure you don't miss an ideal role just because you saw a posting too late. You can even set alerts for job words tied to companies or industries. And I can't emphasize this enough, when you're being targeted in your job search, industry associations are your real friend to find relevant roles. A friend of mine was recently using industry job words in the training space exclusively just to filter his opportunities and his interview rate was over 50%. It's because his companies needed his exact background, the match was really clear. Social media is another great way to find jobs. Scan Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram in addition to LinkedIn. You can follow the companies you want to work at and also do hashtag searches for jobs or your career role. The most socially forward companies are putting up unique video resume challenges or inventive job descriptions that are shareable and fun so join the party. And don't forget that networking is still the most reliable way to get a new position. Many jobs don't even get posted because internal or preferred candidates are in the pipeline. Over 70% of jobs are filled through networking referrals making this one of the most powerful ways you can add value to your job search. Invest in your network today so tomorrow, when you have an ask, it's rich and ready, that means connecting with people, offering informational interviews to others when they need help, and sharing content that's valuable with the people you know. Happy hunting.