12 Job Search Tips That Will Help You Land Your Next Gig

We asked around and compiled some of the best tips. Make sure to file it under 'career goals'.

1. Focus on the role you want.

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Start your search by looking for the type of job that not only interests you, but also fits with your skill set. If you secretly hate copious amounts of paperwork, an administrative position might not be right for you.

2. Then do your research on the companies.

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Finding the right company is just as important as finding the right role, so do your research on the company offering the position you want. Ensure that the work culture and general ethos matches up with yours. You spend a lot of time at work — better to make it the right fit rather than the right-now fit.

3. Your résumé should reflect the job you're applying for.

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One résumé does not fit all. Include keywords from the actual job posting in your application, and list only the experience and personal qualifications that feel most relevant to the role. Are they looking for someone who loves dogs? Guess what you can (finally) add to that résumé!?

4. The same goes for cover letters.

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Cover letters can be a great way to show that you've read the job description and understand the company. Make it short, and get to the point. Tell them why you want to work for them, not just what you can do for them.

5. Don't stress (too much) about the job requirements.

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Most companies give a laundry list of requirements to find a specific type of candidate, but don't let that stop you from applying. If they're asking for a year of experience and you've only got six months, apply anyway. But if they're asking for someone with a PhD and you don't even know what that means, you're better off sitting this one out.

6. Stand out from the pile.

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Standing out in 2019 is hard, and companies need to figure out who you are and what you can offer in a very short amount of time! So make sure you've got a highly readable résumé that emphasizes your impact. If you're in a creative field, design a unique résumé, or make a reality TV–style audition video.

7. Network, network, network.

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Go to parties. Go to industry events. Hang out in coffee shops where you know people who do what you do will be. Working a part-time gig? Don't be afraid to network with the right customers if their careers align with your ambitions. You never know who might help you get your foot in the door.

8. Get social!

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Make sure you're active on your social accounts and fill them with content related to the field you're applying for. Employers are definitely looking you up online, so this will help show your passion for the position. Be sure to also follow accounts for the CEOs and companies you're applying to work for.

9. Have questions ready at the interview.

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Believe it or not, the interview process is a two-way street. The company wants to make sure you're the right fit for the job, but they also want to make sure they're the right fit for you. So have questions like these prepared: "What does success look like for someone in this position?” or “Are there opportunities for professional development?” It shows that you're eager to learn more about the position and the company.

10. Leave something impressive behind.

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It's an open secret among creative professionals, but everyone should be doing it: Leave something behind after your interview. It could be a portfolio, examples of past work, references, or even testimonials. (No baguettes, though. Unless you're applying for a head baker position. Then do leave your best baguette.)

11. Say thanks!

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After an interview, always follow up with a thank-you email to the interviewer. It shows you're eager about the position and interested in learning about next steps in the process. (Depending on the company, may we recommend including a GIF?)

12. Ask for feedback.

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If you got through a few rounds of interviews but didn't land the job, ask (nicely) for feedback! Employers usually don't mind sharing their thoughts, and it'll help you grow as an interviewee.

Searching for a job is a job in and of itself, but if you stay focused and positive, the right gig will come along — especially with help from Indeed.