5 Tips for a More Focused, Targeted Job Search

5 Tips for a More Focused, Targeted Job Search5 Tips for a More Focused, Targeted Job Search0Whether you are looking for a new job voluntarily or searching due to involuntary unemployment, having a targeted and focused job search can help you get better results from your efforts. Below you will find tips for a more focused, targeted job search, as well as information on why a focused job search is a more productive method of finding and gaining employment.With time being of the essence for many job seekers, having a more focused job search strategy and targeted process can help in alleviating some of the hustle, as well as optimizing precious time.Why a Targeted Job Search Is More ProductiveTargeting and focusing your job search can eliminate the stress of mass mailings and the waiting game. Rather than focusing your time and effort on getting as many resumes out as possible, targeting specific industries, companies, or areas helps in identifying positions that you qualify for and ar e interested in.Sure, sending a lot of resumes out gets your name out there, but it may be for the wrong reason. HR personnel are overwhelmed with applicants for every position, so if you dont make the effort to personalize your documents and target specific areas, your hard work may end up in the trash pile. Your time may be much better spent tweaking your resumes and deckblatt letters, applying only for jobs you qualify for, and doing the necessary research to make a lasting impression, or at very least, a new connection.How to Target and Focus Your Job SearchChoose a path.Most people have a hard time figuring out what they want to do with their lives, especially during a job search. You may be willing to do just about anything, at one point or another, but it is more effective to really dwindle the list down to a few areas you can focus on. Consider your background, your education, your life needs, and your passions. Understanding these can help your job search by identifying an industry, market, or a range of companies you can focus your search on. Finding similarities between the path you want to follow and your work-life balances needs will help you decide the type of job you want, whether it be part-time, freelance, or even an internship.Find a theme.Rather than applying for any job, think about your personal brand and who you are as a professional, and then find jobs that fit. Your resume should be targeted and customized for each position you apply for. Take note of any recurring themes and keywords in the job description to help you format your resume to highlight the qualifications and skills that the job requires.Do research.Whatever you do, dont skip the research. Companies are looking for people with attention to detail. By researching the company and the job, you can create customized cover letters and exceptional resumes. Additionally, when you are well versed in the company and the job description, you will be ready to talk and take action whe n it comes to the interview process. Going into a job blind may find you back in job search mode sooner than you expected.Know your qualifications.The whole point of a target is to hit the center. When you forget to aim at the target, chances are you are going to miss. The same applies for job applications. You must know your skills and qualifications so that you can target your efforts towards positions that you are qualified for. Sending your resume out to every job opening you see is going to, more than likely, put your resume into the trash. Find your path, do your research, and know your skills so that you can focus on the target of getting your dream job.Network.With more and more jobs not being publicly advertised, but spread through professional networks and word of mouth, having an established network in your targeted industry or profession is important. Not only does your network connect you to other professionals and like-minded individuals, it also opens up doors to jobs that you otherwise wouldnt have known about.Focusing your efforts and time on a targeted job search is important. Knowing what you want to do, creating personalized documents, doing the research, understanding what you qualify for, and growing your network are great ways to focus your energy and begin to target those ideal jobs.