Seven time-saving ways to search for a job

Looking for a job? You can get sucked into spending hours on job sites and networks if you're not careful. Here are seven ways to cut that process down to 15 minutes a day.

 

1. Have a plan

Simply outlining what you're looking for can make the job-seeking process more focused so that you spend less time sorting the potential from the rubbish. Do a little research upfront to find out what's realistic in terms of your role and salary expectations to set some parameters.
 

2. Identify and use keywords

Use the keywords that employers and recruiters use, for example 'graduate' is preferred over 'degree holder'. Don't forget to identify the different categories that they may use. Tax roles, for example, may be placed under 'accountancy' or 'finance', so be sure to check both. Also add these keywords to your job-seeking profile to increase the chance of someone finding you.
 

3. Save searches

Most job sites and job boards, including LinkedIn, allow you to sign up for a profile and save your search, including all the terms and parameters you set (keywords, salary, location). Automate this process instead of entering the same information every time you visit.
 

4. Create alerts

If you prefer push notifications, on most sites and networks you can create alerts that deliver jobs that match the terms and parameters you set and have them sent to you via text or email. You can also employ tools like Google Alerts to find relevant postings and have them notify you.
 

5. Sign up to newsletters

Sign up to the newsletter of each organisation you're interested in. Not only will the 'we're hiring' message be fresh when you get it, you'll also have recent news about the organisation on hand, which you can use in your interview.
 

6. Join relevant groups

Joining networking and industry groups is often a good way to find a job that may not be formally advertised. It's also an excellent way to get to know your potential employers. LinkedIn Groups, for example, let you get close to people you're not connected to, and you can respond to posts and keep an active profile to get noticed. Make sure your settings provide you with a daily digest of the group's posts so you don't have to spend all day on LinkedIn waiting for a job alert.
 

7. Recruit your network

Make sure the people around you know that you're looking for a job and, if you can, brief them on the type of role you're after. They may see something in a medium you don't check (e.g. newspaper) or hear something from people you don't know or can't contact. More seekers means more potential for opportunities.
 

Job seeking does take time, but with a little upfront investment you can reduce the effort you need to find and filter suitable roles. Set up your profile and alerts properly and it will pay dividends when trying to land the perfect job.

 

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