Five things to know as a job seeker in 2024

Applying for a job and getting noticed by the hiring manager is not an easy feat in this modern age. Some large and mid-scale employers tell us that they receive over 250 job applications for a single job posting. Imagine being among the masses when the competition for good opportunities is that high.

So, how do job seekers get selected for interviews even with this amount of competition? They make the right job-searching choices. Today, we will share some of the most important things you should know as a job seeker in 2024.

Develop your skills

As we say all the time, the American job landscape changes frequently. With new technologies and tools coming into play in the market every few weeks, you need to upskill yourself with the right knowledge to stay on top of your competition. Make a habit of identifying in-demand skills within your industry and equipping yourself with them. Simply learning new skills isn’t enough. Your resume must reflect the new skills that you have learned so that hiring managers will know that you have the right knowledge for the job.

Optimize your online presence

Take a minute and type your name into a search engine. Review what comes up. Most employers have the habit of checking out job applicants online. When you enter a job search, you must ensure that only the relevant information comes up when someone searches for you online. First, start by adjusting the privacy settings of your personal social media. If you have social media channels where you share your knowledge and ideas about the field, you must ensure that they align with the job requirements. Don’t forget to give your LinkedIn profile some TLC while you are at it.

Pursue career advancement

Take a long look back at your career. Have you made a lot of lateral moves when changing jobs? While lateral career moves can help you gain knowledge and scale up in responsibilities, it is also important for you to have upward movement in your career. Always keep an eye out for career advancement opportunities when you are searching for jobs.

Research the industry

Simply reading the job description is not enough when you want to make a favorable impression on the hiring manager. We suggest reviewing the social media profiles and the official website of the employer. Also, pay attention to recent press about the company. This will help you identify important projects undertaken by the employer or recent challenges faced by the company. You must also do some research about the industry to identify the latest trends in the field.

Build and use your professional network

Make a habit of actively networking throughout your career. This is a great move that will help you climb up the career ladder with ease. Did you know that your professional network can connect you with great opportunities? Most job seekers who get hired receive a referral from their professional network. You can ask professionals from your network to introduce you to recruiters and hiring managers. They can also provide testimonials, referrals, and recommendations for you.