The moment you begin your job search is the moment that potential employers start to pay attention. Everything you do has the chance of reflecting poorly on you or showing the value you have to offer. Professionalism in your job search matters. Make sure that you remain professional throughout the entire job search process. Here are some tips to keep you on track:
Professionalism in Your Job Search: Do’s and Don’ts
While searching…
Do: Begin your job search while you’re still employed. Job seekers who are employed during their search are often given better offers by potential employers than job seekers who are unemployed. Starting to look for a new position while you still have a job can also help minimize the stress of the search because you are not desperate for a new source of income.
Don’t: Search for a new job while you are at work. It shows a lack of professionalism. You owe your current employer your best effort while you are still employed with them. Plus, if you’re not ready to let your current employer know you are searching, using a work computer to look for jobs may alert them to your intentions.
Do: Update your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile. These things are often the first impression that a hiring manager will have of you and what you have to offer.
Don’t: Use a resume that is out of date or not targeted towards the specific position you are seeking. Hiring managers don’t have time to guess why you are a good fit–make it clear in your resume. Also, remember to proofread everything before submitting. Nothing is more unprofessional than a resume full of typos!
Do: Reach out to friends and other professionals in your network to learn about open positions at other companies. You are far more likely to get a job if you are referred by someone you know. If your network can’t help you, a recruiter could be a good option.
Don’t: Abuse your relationships. Keep in mind that no one owes you anything. If someone is willing to help, be grateful for the assistance and don’t expect miracles.
During The Interview Process…
Do: During an interview, make sure you are courteous and professional to EVERYONE you meet. This includes office staff, other job candidates, and anyone else you encounter.
Don’t: Be rude or unprofessional during the interview process. If your interview doesn’t start exactly on time, be patient and don’t complain about the tardiness of the interviewer. Regardless of how things go, your professionalism will make a positive impression.
Do: Send a thank you note after each interview you attend.
Don’t: Follow up every day until you get a response about whether or not you got the position. While following up is a good idea, don’t be obnoxious about it. Irritating the hiring manager will not help you get the job.
Do: Highlight the value you can bring to a new a new role based on your knowledge, skills, and experience.
Don’t: Make any negative comments about your current or former employers. Even if they were truly awful, this is not the time to mention it.
Do: Take time to thoroughly evaluate any offers that you receive. Be sure that the role and the company are a good fit before accepting.
Don’t: Keep the hiring manager waiting on your decision for too long. Remember that you are not the only qualified candidate out there. If you take too long to make your decision, you risk having the offer rescinded.
*Bonus: DON’T ghost! Always return phone calls and emails, show up for interviews, and if you accept a job offer, show up for work. If you accept an offer and then change your mind, let the hiring manager know as soon as possible (BEFORE your first day). Hiring managers have long memories and you never know how ghosting can impact your future job searches.
Are you ready to begin your job search? Let us help! Check out the resume packages we have available, or give us a call to discuss how we can help you reach your career goals.