So this is a tough year to find jobs? It certainly is, it’s especially harder for those wishing to get into financial services industry; but some simple changes can make a big difference.
Strategy 1: Do not just rely on one channel
I have heard too many candidates; including myself in the past; that they just use Internet such as Monster.com, careerbuilder.com or seek.com for jobs; these actually have several challenges:
Problem 1: There are also other thousands of people looking at this Job Ad.
Problem 2: Many of these jobs are called “advertised” jobs; either already placed or just placed for the sake of “Equal Opportunity” purpose, this is why it can be frustrating when you see they put down starting date immediately but then takes 6 months to get back to you.
Problem 3: Repeating jobs placed by agencies; I had applied one job and interviewed by 16 agents in total, and found it was the same job!
Strategy 2: Cover Letter is more important than Resume
Too many websites only allow you to send a quick cover letter; some do not even allow cover letters. Avoid these websites, and instead, send a direct e-mail to the company you are interested in; but with a “Personalized” cover letter.
I have found that many employers spend more time reading your cover letter than resume, as resumes are often very similar, but the cover letter is your show time to make unique points about yourself.
Strategy 3: Illustrate Important Points about the company
The very first question I often get asked during interviews is: What do you know about our company?
Some good responses that had led me to further interviews were: I am your shareholder; and have been buying! I have read a report from your Analyst X; and found it quite interesting, which prompted to join this firm. I had a look of your competitors; and believe there are strategies to beat their performance; make them relevant to the company you are applying for.
Strategy 4: Subject Line Strategy
We used this strategy to bid on projects and I think they are very relevant to job hunting as well. Have a striking subject line, not something like “Career Opportunities”. Make your head line relevant such as: Seeking for a Financial Analyst in CleanTech sector? Or Do you have an Analyst Specialized in IT sectors in China?
Make them something unique to grab their attention; you could open new doors, they can create new positions just for you, this has been the effective strategy for me to obtain my last 3 jobs.
Strategy 5: Networking and More Networking
More than 50% of jobs these days are through networking instead of direct advertising. Networking is very powerful either online or offline, establish yourself with more contacts through Social Media.
However, do not just ask everyone in your network if they can assist with job; get to know them, and look at their profile and company; tell them about your skills or apply directly to their company why your skills are relevant to them.
Strategy 6: Have your own blog
This is really interesting, I had been asked 6 times last year during interviews if I have my own blog. This is almost becoming a must-have asset for new job seekers, the prospective employers will assess your blog if you have a good writing skill and also what your skills and interests are. However, this also means your blog can also work against you especially if it is for personal purpose.
Many companies are actually considering hiring, but not sure if it is not the right time. Through networking; I had landed jobs in the past as Equity Analyst and Industry Analyst; which started as a 3 months contract and eventually turned into a 6 years job.
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