The world of finding a job has changed. You could even say the world of working in a job has changed too. More and more people are working from home, different kinds of jobs are being created and employers desire a whole new scheme of skills and knowledge. It seems almost impossible to navigate, right?
That is why Charles Sturt University has combined the Career Services, Skill Development, Student Leadership and Mentoring teams to create the Careers and Skills Hub.
As it is National Careers Week, the Career and Skills Hub want to tell you the most effective job searching techniques and strategies.
How to stand out in the crowd
Hunting for jobs can be challenging, overwhelming and emotionally exhausting, especially if the search stretches over a long period of time. The Careers and Skills Hub have recommended the importance of reflecting on the skills and experiences you’ve gained over the course of your career and study. And as hard as that can be, you should also consider your strengths and weaknesses.
You can start by asking yourself some of these questions:
- Would I consider any of these as a core strength and competency of mine – team work, communication, problem solving, planning and organising?
- Why am I looking for a job?
- What do I wish to get out of my next role – money, career advancements?
This way you will be able to propose the best version of yourself to employers.
Know what you want
The Careers and Skills Hub have outlined four important tips you should consider when you are looking for your next employment opportunity:
- Identify the type of work you are looking for – casual, full-time, volunteering, or an internship, for example.
- Identify the target industry you wish to work in.
- Identify the location. Are you happy to relocate?
- Use keywords in the search criteria. Your course subjects may give you a starting point.
With these in mind, you can enter them in the Careers and Skills Hub online job search portal to find a wide range of fantastic opportunity that may be available to you!
Don’t forget your supporting documents
When job searching, there is every chance you may come across an opportunity that truly captures your attention. Most, if not all, job applications will require you to submit supporting documents such as a resume and cover letter. Providing the most authentic version of yourself in your supporting documents is encouraged by the Careers and Skills Hub.
These tips cannot go unsaid in terms of developing your supporting documents:
- Create a master copy of your resume and cover letter. That way you update and optimise your resume with keywords for every new job application.
- Google yourself! Not only will this give you the opportunity to see what others may see but will allow consistency in your online branding.
- Get amongst the networking environment by creating a LinkedIn account.
If you have any further questions regarding job hunting, or anything related to skills development and employment, check out the many mentoring and workshop sessions available through the Careers and Skills Hub.
