What you need to know about job listings and job postings for your next career move
It’s a strange time economically. And if you’re in job hunting mode, it can feel uncertain and scary. Recently, a client expressed dismay when he saw over 200 applicants for a position posted on LinkedIn that he thought would be a good fit. You may also see career advice telling you to ignore job postings completely.
Here’s what you should know:
First, don’t be discouraged by the large number of applicants.
The number of applicants does not determine whether or not you apply for a job.
The 80/20 rule applies to more experienced, senior, and specialized roles. Even at 95/5. Only a few applicants are attractive candidates. Most applicants do not fit. Most people rely too much on the spray-and-prayer approach to “searching.”
I don’t want it to be you I don’t want you to waste your time and energy. we want results. So the caveat to point 1 is to only apply for jobs that you think are the best fit for you.
Second, job postings are a legitimate means of obtaining career opportunities.
I advise you not to put all your job hunting eggs in the same basket. There are multiple channels for career opportunities, including recruiters, networks, referrals, and target companies.
Jobs are one channel, not the only one.
This is important because applying to a job posting works better for some people than others.
• Depending on your industry, role, and title, the job posting may be better handled by someone already working in that field.
• Where there is ample supply, there is demand and posting is effective.
• Candidates with relevant roles, a strong brand with proven experience, and a strong resume are preferred.
Here’s how to test it:
When you’re starting your job search, if you have a bunch of fresh and interesting posts that make you feel like you’re a strong candidate, it’s a signal that you should start there. If it’s the other way around, it’s a signal that you need to double down on your network and your targeted approach.
A selective and targeted approach to job listings, backed by strong marketing materials (resumes, cover letters) and sophisticated and compelling LinkedIn profiles yields stronger results. increase.
So what should you do to optimize your job search?
be selective
Is this an attractive opportunity and are you a good match? It doesn’t have to match every requirement (companies often look for unicorns). However, it requires experience and expertise that are central to the priorities of the role. Use the 70% rule. In addition, I want you to feel confident that you have the necessary personal qualities. Following this advice will improve your conversion rate.
paint hard
In some cases, we create customized resumes. And I advocate a “why you” message that leads to the role’s primary target outcome. If you apply, please do well. Add a cover letter or message written in the reward language. It doesn’t need to be long. Additionally, make sure your LinkedIn profile is polished, compelling, and to the point. And add the following tactics…
Send a message or email to a hiring manager or recruiter to follow them on LinkedIn.
Express your strong interest and highlight one or two areas that apply. Respect the other person’s process when using messages to draw attention to your profile.
(Tip: If a recruiter screens hundreds of applicants and receives a polite and helpful message from someone they think is the right fit, that person is likely to get more attention.)
Go beyond job postings with a proactive multi-channel approach
Most of the time, posting should not be your only avenue to opportunity. This passive approach carries more risk, less opportunity and more competition. The risks are greater for those with non-standard backgrounds, or those making significant changes in jobs or industry sectors where opportunities are scarce.
So be sure…
Leverage other channels
Develop related recruitment agencies. Develop and access networks. Research and target specific organizations.
Job postings are just a fraction of the opportunities available in the market.
Work proactively, strategically, and purposefully for optimal results. Even better, pre-build your career capital, profile and network strength to create a continuous stream of opportunities and referrals.
