9 Things You Need To Know Before You Job Search

By Lilian Wamaitha

Landing your dream job isn’t going to be a joy ride.

To succeed you need to familiarize yourself with what hiring managers are looking for in job seekers.

The truth I that hiring managers have set up rule both written and unwritten about what they expect for job seekers. It is in your position therefore to get to know what is expected of you as a job seeker today.

Must Read: 5 Simple Tips That Will Guarantee You A Job In 2017

Job search things you need to know

1. Find someone to refer you

You are missing out on very good job opportunities because you don’t have someone who can refer you for a certain position.

Identify someone within the company probably a senior manager who can chip in some good things about you to get you shortlisted.

2. Invest in technical skills

We are living in a digital world which is the main reason to invest in learning technical skills.

Most hiring managers rank technical skills as top skills they need in a candidate.

You can take up online courses to gain more insight on this.

3. Insist on work experience and not grades

Most job seekers make the mistake of assuming that their academic excellence is a measure of competence.

To most hiring managers and employers, the experience trumps academic prowess.

So instead of focusing on your academic background, insist on internships and various positions you may have held f you are not a entry level job seeker.

4. Perfect phone interview skills

Normally your first interview will probably be through the phone.

You know what they say about first impressions. Make the last.

Master the art of phone interviews and you are n your way to impressing the hiring manager to give you a chance at a one on one interview.

5. The interview process is never a one day affair

The interview process takes time so it’s highly recommended that you be patient.

While it is good to follow up on an interview, it is never advisable to be a bother. You have to understand that you are not the only one being interviewed.

It takes a longer time to meet the entire shortlisted candidate so just give them time.

You can start following up after two weeks probably.

6. Always have these key skills

As you engage in job search trying to find the perfect gig, it is important to understand what skills to highlight.

Employers are keen on communication, leadership and team work as the top skills.

Ensure you highlight these in order to stand out from the competition.

7. Be ready to take a test

Most employers administer tests before or during the interview.

You have probably been required to complete an online test during the job search or you may have attended an interview and given a test to complete before the interview.

Therefore always be ready for such tests.

The job search process can be a little bit stressful when you don’t know what employers are looking for. Be on the know with these tings you need to know before you job search.

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Lilian is a Communications Officer at Career Point Kenya. Contact her via email at lilian@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke