Using Technology to Streamline Your Job Search

In today’s competitive job market, it’s important to stay one step ahead of the crowd. While the tried and true methods of cold calling and sending cover letters still work, technology has made the process much more interesting.

 

We now have access to personal websites, social media, and the ability to interview from anywhere in the world. Further, an increasing number of employers are using big data analytics to streamline hiring processes. In order to thrive in this new job market, you need to be on the cutting edge. If you leverage tech advancements, you stand a great chance of finding that dream job. Utilize these technologies and best practices when searching for your new position:

Search for Jobs From Anywhere

The wonderful thing about technology is that it not only allows us to apply to jobs on the go but to interview on the road as well. There are several apps that job seekers should download to their mobile devices that can help streamline application and interview processes. For instance, many companies are jumping on the tech bandwagon and are opting to have phone and video chats with candidates.

 

Some of the more popular video chat apps include Skype and GoToMeeting, which allow you to use the camera installed in your device to have the interview seamlessly. It is a good idea to download these apps now so you are prepared for that last-minute interview. There are other job search sites that you should look into as well. These include Glassdoor, which can help you find jobs based on salary and company size, and LinkUp, which searches only verified job listings that are located on company websites.

 

In this technology-fueled world, the internet is a tool you simply cannot be without, especially when you are job searching. However, if you find out about a new job or a sudden interview and you don’t have access to the internet, you could always use your cell phone as a mobile hotspot. Doing so is as easy as activating the hotspot and then connecting your laptop or other mobile device. That way, you are not stuck with shoddy public Wi-Fi.

Proper Social Media Etiquette Can Help

These days, 90% of job seekers under 30 have a social media profile, and many businesses have one as well. You can take advantage of these companies with a thoughtful online presence.

 

Before you even start contacting businesses, you need to ensure that your social media profiles are clean and friendly. Employers these days will do everything they can to make sure they get the right candidate, so you can bet they’ll search through your profiles. For that reason, do not post any photos that you wouldn’t want your mother to see.

 

Many people opt to use LinkedIn, which should only be used as a way of applying to jobs and attracting hiring managers. When you use LinkedIn, take the time to add all necessary details, including where you have worked and the skills you learned or utilized while working there. Choose a professional photo where you are dressed for the type of position for which you are applying — typically a suit or collared shirt. Finally, list your finest professional achievements as employers are often looking for the top talent.

 

As far as the other social media profiles, post in such a way that companies will take notice and want to further engage with you. If you are going to use Twitter, then keep current with posts and tweet meaningful messages that are connected to your chosen profession. This is the place to tweet about accomplishments and thoughtful opinions on current news in your field. On Facebook, make it a habit of “liking” the companies that you are interested in working for and feel free to post the fact that you are looking for a job along with your qualifications.

Incorporate Technology Into Your Resume

One significant advancement on the side of the job providers are applicant tracking systems that categorize job seekers and use bots to sort out the individuals that they don’t believe are suitable for the position.

 

The trick is to format your resume properly so you can get through that first round and into the hands of the hiring manager. If you’re unsure where to start, a quality resume writing service can craft a resume for you that truly showcases your abilities. Tweak your resume to set yourself apart from the pack:

 

• Start by using proper spelling; misspellings look unprofessional, and bots may not understand what you are trying to say.
• Some also recommend that you skip the career objective section at the start of your resume. Instead, start it off with a bullet point list of your experience and best career achievements.
• If you are applying for a job for which you have previous relevant experience, consider adding infographics and charts that can further illustrate the skills that you bring to the table.
• Further, consider utilizing technology to showcase your abilities. Instead of simply writing out some qualifications in text, add hyperlinks that will lead potential employers to your online portfolio or even a personal website that showcases your abilities.

 

Creating a website is easier than ever before, and it can be made for free from places like Wix and SquareSpace. Many of these websites give you templates that are easy to modify with important information about who you are, your previous experience and accomplishments, and any work samples that show off your talents. Feel free to add a little personality to the website with professional videos and some photos of you practicing your craft.

 

Technology will only continue to evolve as time goes on, so it is a good idea to adapt your job search now so you are ready for the jobs of tomorrow. Start utilizing these tech tips and stay ahead of the pack.