The 11 Unwritten Rules of The Job Search

Are you in the middle of a job search? There’s no exact formula for finding a job. Instead it takes hard work, determination, and a bit of luck. Luckily, here are a few secret, previously unwritten rules of the job search to help you keep your job search on track:

1. Treat Your Job Search Like A Full Time Job – Searching for a job will take up all of your time. Make a schedule and be efficient. Between job applications, resume tweaking, customizing cover letters, searching for job listings, and networking you shouldn’t have too much free time left.
2. Use Technology To Your Advantage – Technology is constantly evolving. Take advantage of it. Sign up for job alerts. Create online resumes. Develop your web presence. Write a blog. Fine tune your brand. Recruiters will Google you, so make sure they can find you and that they will be impressed.
3. Develop Your References – References are an often overlooked part of the job search. When you create a relationship that could become a reference, take time to keep that relationship healthy. Stay in touch with people both online and in person. Are your job references ready?
4. Constantly Network – We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – life is all about who you know. From the hidden job market to new contacts in your smartphone, you never know who can help you out. Spend the time to talk to people and build relationships.
5. Apply for Jobs – It may sound obvious, but if you don’t apply for jobs you will NOT get hired. Part of the job search is dealing with some rejection, but failure is one of the best teachers. Don’t waste time applying for jobs you don’t want. Focus on the jobs you do want. The JobMonkey Job Board is a great place to find cool jobs.
6. Prep For Interviews – We have tons of interview tips on the blog. If you land an interview take the time to get ready for it. Practice oddball interview questions, plan out your answers, and be confident.
7. Set Goals – Write down your job search goals. Plan out how many job applications you’re going to send in each week. Figure out how many contacts you can make per day. Dedicate time to your web presence. Measure your progress and be realistic. When you accomplish your goal, cross it off.
8. Continue To Build Your Resume – Just because you’re unemployed doesn’t mean your resume will stop growing. You can still volunteer, earn certifications, find temporary work, join associations, travel, or earn a new degree.
9. Follow Up – Making and maintaining contact with people is important. Send emails and mail thank you notes to people who help you out during your job search. They will appreciate it and it may help you get ahead.
10. Stay Organized – Keep your job search organized. Track important dates. Monitor the status of your applications. Follow up in a timely manner. Know which jobs you’ve applied for and what job listings you’ve seen. Stay on top of the details.
11. Get Creative – Sometimes you need to think outside of the box to make sure you stand out. Let your creativity flow and see where it takes you.

Finding a job is a challenge. It’s a time consuming process that can be very frustrating. Stick to these previously unwritten rules of the job search and with a bit of determination, you’ll find a job in the very near future.