“Hello from the other side
I must have called a thousand times.”

Ah yes, you just can’t get those Adele lyrics out of your mind.  You’ve memorized what to say when you get called for the interview. In your mind, they’ve called a thousand times….to the wrong candidate.

Many job seekers believe that in order to acquire the next best job, all that needs to be done is to apply and hit “send” on that application and wait to hear back from the company. Unfortunately, that is the wrong approach. In today’s job search times, much more is needed from applicants if they truly want to score the most coveted positions in their industries.

Here are some tips to get you started in re-thinking your job search strategy after you hit “send.”

Request in-person meetings

Reach out to companies you want to work for. Follow these companies on LinkedIn. Review their company mission statements and learn who the key players are. Ask for an in-person meeting. Ask for their email address. Send your resume directly to the hiring manager or executive partner and follow-up always. It shows initiative and a proactive stance.

Consider having a sell sheet, an innovative 1-page resume that is more like a brochure into who you are and the value you command.

Connect with recruiters on LinkedIn

You now have a resume that strategically markets you and your skill set (after all, you’ve hired a top-tier resume writer to get your job search going the right way).  Taking advanced steps is a requirement in the job market.  It is all about strategy and actively pursuing the opportunities. Once your LinkedIn profile is completely and fully optimized and resonates the image of a key business professional, it is time to make those connections on LinkedIn with targeted professionals and recruiters.

Search for jobs on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the #1 place to job search today. You can even use your LinkedIn profile to apply for jobs. Stop lingering around job boards.  They only give you a 4-8% response rate. LinkedIn is where it’s at for professionals and you need to be on top of your game. Remember, however, that just having a powerful resume and LinkedIn profile are not enough in the digital age — you need to be alert, active, and present.

Network like there’s NO tomorrow!

Look to attend networking events in your area if possible. It is a great way to get introduced. Join groups on LinkedIn and see who is posting articles and job advertisements. Consider attending local Chamber of Commerce meetings, business to business events, and even happy hour events for professionals. But remember one thing:  just like Patty Stanger says when it comes to dating advice, “Two drink maximum.” Be social, but do not let loose. You are there for the purpose of obtaining your next job, not your next weekend outing.

These are some strategic things you can do outside of hitting “send” on the resume and waiting to hear back. By taking charge, and going after those jobs you want, you will find that persistence will pay off, and the next job will be in your lap before you know it!

Have additional questions about your job search? Contact us!

Reach out to Wendi Weiner, The Writing Guru, Top Miami Resume Writer directly. You can book a consultation with Wendi Weiner, The Writing Guru, here.