9 Must-Haves to Get the Job You Want

4 min read
Hand listing job search requirements on a notebook

It has been thought that due to the stiff job search requirements and competition, only four out of ten job applicants get the job they really desire, and fortunate is the person who can enjoy that very elusive job satisfaction.

Job Search Requirements to Help You Achieve Your Dream Job

These job search requirements, as gathered by a career development specialist, John Williamson, should help avoid failure in such an important aspect of your life. Read through the following, and learn how you can apply them to your job application.

  • Understand all of the opportunities available to you

The key to finding a great career is to think outside the box. Since every firm needs accountants, project managers, and salespeople, you need to be open-minded and understand that the job you want can be given to another person. In the same way, you could better fit in another company or position. Do not just assume that you can only work at the standard place of employment for your field of specialization. Consider different ways and places to apply your skills and energy. You can start by customizing your job search requirements.

  • Get to know a successful person

Did you know you could increase your chances to fulfill the job search requirements of your dream job if you get to know successful people? However, your father’s friend does not count if he does not know you. You must be able to find someone that has had decent success in any field and try to become their new friend. The tendency for those who have worked and succeeded to go much farther in their career is significant. You can take the world on all by yourself or you can benefit from the experience and wisdom of others. Mentors can make all the differences at every stage of your career.

  • Learn to sell yourself through your job search requirements

This is one of the most important tips to take note of. You have a lot more to offer than you may think. Whether your history is full of experience or education, you are bringing unique qualities to a company. You must learn to express your skills in a succinct and convincing manner through your job search requirements. It may feel like boasting at first, but your ability to sell yourself will help you tremendously.

  • Start networking in professional associations

If you really want to make an impression, meet people who are already in your industry. One of the job search requirements that impresses hiring managers is your volunteer work. Hence, volunteer with them for projects and get to know them. Building relationships and associations with colleagues are the fastest way into a company. Learn what they do and what you should do to get ahead in a particular company or in that field. These people are there to make friends and network as well. Do not be shy about your professional ambitions and you will get very far.

  • Initiate to network inside the company

If you want to ensure your role in a company, you must know several people there. No matter what position you are applying for, you will compete with others on making an impression, as people love to work with those that they trust and like. If you can make a good impression with people inside a company, you will have a built-in competitive advantage when they decide between you and another candidate. One of the job search requirements to ensure you snag your dream job is joining professional organizations to meet company employees. For the more direct route, try contacting a manager in the department you want to work in to meet and ask questions. If you are personable, you will probably not have any problems getting to know a few people inside a company.

  • Get your resume to the best people

There are several strategies for marketing yourself to the decision-makers in a company. Whatever your method may be, it is crucial that you get your resume to the highest-ranking managers possible. If you can impress an executive with a great resume, you will find the door to the company-wide open. The desire to please is prevalent at many larger companies, so any chance you can take advantage of to get your name dropped (or recognized) by top management is great.

  • Do your job search requirements’ homework

You have heard this all of your school years, but it is even more important in your career search. You can easily blow a great job opportunity by not knowing enough information about the company. Be sure to read industry news and trends to have a better perspective on the challenges and opportunities the company is facing. Read the company’s web site thoroughly. There is so much information readily available, including key personnel’s names, positions, and contact information. Take advantage of this information and any other knowledge you can attain from the multitude of sources available

  • Hit the pavement

Do not be afraid to show up at the company you want to work in. Nobody can sell yourself as you can. Even if the company is not advertising a position, they are almost always looking for great employees to hire. The information age has nearly eliminated the need for face-to-face contact, which is why it is so effective now. If you meet the people that you want to work for, then you are demonstrating your commitment and confidence in yourself. The younger generation of job seekers has forgotten the importance of personal relationships in business, leaving many talented people wondering why they are not being hired. Get out there and show that you are the person behind the resume.

  • Ask for the job you want

If you bring quality skills and/or experience to the table, let it be known. If the open position will not challenge you enough, find ways to add responsibility. Tell interviewers that you want to make a difference in their company. Confidence in one’s ability is the key to landing great jobs. If the decision-maker can see that you have a lot to offer and are willing to work harder than current employees, there is no question: you can get hired!

Linda Roberts is part of a research team providing various resource materials to many different corporate recruitment departments.

Related Articles:

Resume Writing: Top 4 Reasons to Fit Your Tool to the Job
Career Fears That Make You Stuck