When you’re ready to begin your job search, establishing clear intentions early in the process can help you make informed decisions along the way. Preparing the right job search materials as well as connecting with hiring managers at the companies you’re interested in are just two strategies to optimizing your time searching for a new job.In this article, we share 14 job search strategies to help you find the right position.Why job search strategies matterUsing specific strategies can help you organize your search and apply for more jobs that fit your qualifications. As you create a focused process that allows you to find roles of interest, you increase the likelihood of getting a job that benefits both you and the company.Your job search strategies might also help you notice new or evolving personal career objectives. Making a plan to find and apply for jobs helps keep you motivated throughout the job search process.

1. Maintain a growth mindset

Use your search as an opportunity for learning and professional growth. One way to maximize the potential learning benefit of the job search process is to identify and capitalize on opportunities.A growth mindset is a belief that skills and personal traits can improve with time and effort. For example, if you encounter an interview question that’s new to you, research possible answers to that question and brainstorm your own ideas to prepare and gain confidence for the next time you encounter the question.

2. Leverage mobile devices

If one of your goals is to use your time wisely in your job search, mobile devices make powerful tools. Mobile internet makes it easy to review job boards and social media job search communities throughout the day.To maximize the potential productivity of mobile devices in your job search, consider moving relevant apps to the home screen of your device. You can also set alarms reminding you to research jobs when you would normally do other activities on your mobile device. For example, if you typically play games on your phone during your commute, consider setting an alarm reminding you to stay on track and look for jobs during your normal travel time.

3. Apply to a variety of jobs

Instead of limiting yourself to a specific job title, applying for multiple jobs in different industries offers more employment possibilities. Keep a flexible cover letter on file as well as several resume formats to adhere to the conventions for different industries. Keeping flexible documents ready can make the application process faster when you find a position for which you’d like to apply.

4. Use keywords

Keywords indicate the top terms employers use to describe a role and related job responsibilities. Using keywords in your resume and cover letter shows you understand what’s important about the position.As more companies use software to screen resumes for the most qualified applicants, integrating keywords into your application documents can help you advance in the hiring process. Look for words or phrases the employer uses to define the role and job duties, such as specific certifications or years of experience. Keywords can also affect how you find jobs as you search. Using specific search terms yields better results and quality job postings. For example, rather than searching the word “nursing jobs,” search for the phrase “pediatric nurse job openings.” It may also help you to look at the tab noting similar search phrases. 

5. Network effectively

Making personal connections through networking opportunities enhances your job search. Let your network know when you’re actively looking for a new job by sending a message through social media platforms or in an email.They may offer information about open positions within their company or recommend you to another employer. It’s important to cultivate a professional network with both in-person and online contacts. 

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