7 Habits of Highly Successful Job Seekers

There are two types of job seekers. Those who get a job two weeks after they make applications and those who end up being unemployed all year, even after making numerous applications. I’m very sure you have looked at your friend who got a job within a short time and said that they were lucky, because it seemed to be taking too long for you.

What differentiates these two types of job seekers? Is it their qualifications or their well written CV?

I personally have been on both ends of the spectrum, where I have made hundreds of applications without receiving any feedback, to applying for a job and getting an interview invitation the following week.

Allow me to share the secrets I have picked up, that will be beneficial to you in your job search. What are the habits of highly successful jobs seekers? Find out.

The Secret Habits of Highly Successful Job Seekers

1.Search For Jobs With A Purpose

The biggest mistake most job seekers make is applying for so many jobs that they don’t naturally qualify for. You know how you customize your qualifications to match those of the company? Yes, that’s a bad strategy.

I know that you should always tailor make your CV to match the roles of the job advertised but it should not be forced.

For example, you cannot afford to apply for a Corporate Communications job at the United Nations, whereas you only have  2 years of work experience working as an Assistant Communications Officer.

Searching for a job with purpose means that you only target companies and jobs that match your goals, career values and qualifications.

2.Always be prepared

You can receive a phone call anytime. You can be asked to attend an interview this afternoon. How well are you prepared?

Avoid being caught off-guard when opportunities arise. You don’t want to answer a phone like this: “hello? . . . well . . . um . . . well, like I was kinda sleeping. . . how long is this going to take? . . . who are you again? . . . like I, um, contacted so many places, cuz, you know, like, I can’t like find a job . . .,” etc and this is totally unacceptable.

Here at our office, I have heard phone calls made to candidates inviting them interviews and they end up answering the phone in a very ignorant manner.

Always be alert in your job search season, know where you have applied for jobs and for which positions. Preparation is key.

Read Also >>> 3 Very Important Cell Phone Etiquette For Job Seekers

3. Develop a job search plan

For example, when I was unemployed, I developed a plan to volunteer with different startups as a Videographer and Editor. I saw an opportunity that others did not see, where I would use the work I had done for these companies as part of my work experience. This placed me above other candidates when I was looking for jobs.

That said, have a plan. Will you volunteer and work hard to ensure you are retained? Will you send your CV to companies that have not advertised or will you attend conferences and forums to network?

Have a plan. When you fail to plan you plan to fail.

4. Apply directly To the Employer & not the Human Resources

The Human Resource representative is also known as the ‘screener’. Their role is to screen CV’s that are a good fit and forward them to the decision makers who include (VP of Sales, the MD, or the CEO)

It is, therefore, advisable that you address the employer when making applications.

5. Write follow-up letters/ calls

It’s wise to make a follow-up call or write a letter a week or two after your interview. This gives you information about the job you applied for, such as whether or not the position was filled.

It also allows you to know if you should continue applying for other jobs or not.

6. Avoid toxic job seekers

You know those friends who are always complaining that there are no jobs? Avoid such people. Make your job search very precious and work towards your goals and plans, ignoring negative people and groups.

7.Be good to yourself

Lastly, take it easy on yourself once in a while. Don’t be too focused on looking for jobs that you become overwhelmed. Take breaks from time to time, meet up with friends, join a club or church group and enjoy life.

In the end, it will all work out for your good.

All the best.

Susan is a Communications Officer at Career Point Kenya. Email: susan@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke