Tips for a Successful Job Search

Embarking on a job search can feel like navigating uncharted waters, but with the right strategies, you can chart a course to success. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or somewhere in between, these tips will help you stand out in the Twin Cities job market.

Expand Your Horizons

Be open to different types and sizes of organizations.
Hunt for interviews using the aid of your network and your recruiter because a successful job search requires you to cast the broadest net possible.
Leverage your network to get introduced to the people who make hiring decisions for the positions you covet.

Prepare Thoroughly

PREPARE. Do your homework prior to an interview. Practice interviewing and thoroughly research the organization.
Prepare to talk about yourself and the value you offer to the organization regarding its needs and/or challenges.

Engage Actively in the Interview

Go to the interview with your own agenda, questions, and curiosities about whether this job fits you. If you don’t ask good questions, the interviewer will think you lack interest.
When answering a question, speak for only 20 seconds to 2 minutes at a time. Focus on providing content-rich and concise answers. Much like a good speech, practice this to do it effectively.

Maintain Professionalism Throughout

Always present yourself professionally and positively throughout the process, regardless of whom you speak with, including admin staff. Everyone evaluates you from the moment you enter the building until you leave.
Always write a thank you note the same evening of the interview and mail and/or email it by the next morning at the latest. Ask a third party to proofread all written correspondence.

Prioritize Honesty and Integrity

When filling out a job application, ALWAYS represent yourself honestly. Don’t exaggerate previous compensation levels, degrees, or designations.
Always include the exact dates of employment on the application. If you reach the offer stage with any company, they will check and verify all this information. You don’t want a company to rescind an offer because you were dishonest!