Navigating Job Boards: Strategies for Effective Job Search

When searching for jobs, many candidates often rely solely on job boards, but this approach can be limiting. Job boards may not always be the ideal starting point. Instead, a more comprehensive strategy involves carefully selecting and tailoring your job search efforts.

The Role of Company Websites

Before turning to job boards, it's important to do some preliminary research on the companies you are interested in working for. Visit their websites where you can often find information about open positions, company culture, and even mentorship or training opportunities. This not only gives you more relevant information but also helps you tailor your resume to specific roles and companies.

Customizing Your Resume

When you identify potential job openings, take the time to customize your resume accordingly. Most companies list the key skills, knowledge, and aptitudes (often referred to as KSAs) they are looking for in a candidate. Make sure to include as many of these KSAs as possible in your resume. This demonstrates to potential employers that you are an excellent fit for the position.

Using Aggregated Job Sites Effectively

Once you have a well-tailored resume, consider using aggregated job sites like Indeed. These platforms can help you find job listings that are relevant to your skills and geographic location. Instead of uploading your resume, bookmark any positions that you are particularly interested in. This way, you can take the initiative to apply when the opportunity arises.

Indeed is particularly useful because it allows you to search for all jobs near you, potentially revealing positions that you may not have considered on your own. I recall finding a job on Indeed that was local and paid roughly three times the average wage in the area, counting fish. Although I took a different job, this example underscores the value of exploring all options available to you.

Respecting Regular and Small Businesses

Traditional job boards are not the only places you should seek employment. Many smaller, local businesses still operate using tried-and-true methods. Instead of relying solely on job boards, consider sending a nicely printed paper resume via snail mail. This traditional approach can still yield effective results, especially for small, non-internet-dependent businesses.

Another beneficial site to look at is Glassdoor. This platform allows you to review company reviews and internal insights, which can provide valuable information about a company's work environment and culture. While you might not want to upload your resume, using the insights on Glassdoor can still add value to your search.

Conclusion

Effective job search strategies involve a mix of company websites, tailored resumes, and the judicious use of job boards. By diversifying your approach and thoroughly researching both public job boards and individual company websites, you can maximize your chances of finding the right job. Whether you prefer macro-suited Indeed or the micro-approach of traditional legitimate job boards, each platform has its own strengths. Make sure to leverage them all to your advantage.

By following these tips and strategies, you can enhance your job search and increase your chances of finding the right job for you. Remember, the key to a successful job search is a combination of knowledge, adaptability, and persistence.