Ten Questions to Consider as You Begin Your Job Search

Whether you are an experienced professional, entry-level or senior executive, these questions apply to everyone looking for a job. So, if you have not already addressed most of these, it is time get started. Of course, this is just the beginning. There are many elements that go into a successful job search. If you do not make new year’s resolutions, at least do these.

1. LinkedIn Profile URL – Does your URL display numbers after your name when you click your profile?

Most do not know this is the default for all users. So, delete unnecessary digits and create a personalized URL with your name. It is easy to do.

2. LinkedIn Headline – Does it list your current or recent job title?

LinkedIn, by default, lists your current or recent job title as your headline. And many people go with this. Why not change it to brand yourself to highlight your strengths and areas of expertise. You are allowed 120 characters which permits you to pack much creative text into your headline.

3. Resume – Are you using the same resume for every role even if you are considering multiple industries?

Although each resume will probably not have to be 100% tailored (particularly if it is in the same sector), you must include information that addresses the employer’s needs. And even though this is an overused term, I still see resumes that do not include the all-important ‘key words’ which are necessary when employers load your document into the Applicant Tracking Software (ATS). If it does not receive a good score, your resume will not land in front of the recruiter.

4. Cover letter – Have you described why you are interested in each employer?

Your letter must address the requirements for each role. Yes, this is time consuming, but crucial. A generic letter can be spotted immediately and will get you nowhere. You have to explain why you are an excellent fit by tailoring the letter to the job description.

5. Fear of networking – Do you feel you might bother someone, especially a stranger by contacting them?

You probably know only about 80% of all jobs are listed. This means you must connect with people who can put you in touch with others or tell you about upcoming roles that have not been posted. Many people will oblige. If they do not, move on to the next person. You have nothing to lose. Whether you network in person, via LinkedIn or your alma mater, this can allow you to tap into that ‘hidden job market.’

6. Elevator Pitch – Do you have a plan for how to describe yourself in a short period of time?

You never know who you will encounter in any situation, so prepare your concise pitch that points out what you are doing, what you have done in the past (include skills) and your goals.

7. Mock Interviews – Are you afraid to practice with a career coach who will give you proper feedback?

This is your only chance to receive comments and suggestions about your interview skills from a professional. You will not get this from an employer in the real interview. You need to know how you are doing so you can improve or at least know you are rocking the interview. Think about it…if you fear this, how will you handle the real event?

8. Refusal to Join LinkedIn – Do you want to avoid all social media platforms?

LinkedIn now goes beyond connecting professionals. It is practically an unspoken expectation you should be on this platform if you are job searching. Did you know many employers will review your LinkedIn profile before looking at your cover letter? You can also list roles for which you are interested (viewable only by recruiters). I know several clients who have landed positions after being contacted by employers through LinkedIn.

 9. Your Social Media Sites – Can anyone on the planet view your Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.?

Not good. All recruiters view applicants’ social media sites. So, review your privacy settings, particularly when you are job searching. If you feel you have nothing to hide, do not change anything. But do you really want everyone knowing which bars you have visited, where you have traveled, political rants/likes, etc.

10. Email Address – Are you using a dated or current email address?

For those of a certain age, you might remember those free AOL CDs that arrived in the mail so you could sign up for an address. If you are still using this (and I still see AOL addresses), please create a professional email address with your name using Gmail which shows you are not a technology luddite.

Karen Suarez is Founder & Owner of KTS Career Coaching, a boutique firm providing customized career advising and job search assistance to individuals in all career stages and admissions interviewing preparation for college, university and MBA program applicants.