In my profession, I am regularly asked how to build a job search strategy. Here’s what I say…
Firstly, the main reason why people struggle to find something suitable is that they only apply to jobs that are exactly the right fit for what they want…
You probably spend a lot of time trawling through job advertisements, and only make a handful of submissions per day. Where does this get you?
Well, it leads to limited responses, fewer interviews, and then a frustration – which means starting the process all over again.
Here are the 3 steps for your job search strategy:
- Write your CV and Build a LinkedIn Profile
- Passive Search
- Proactive Search
1) Write your CV and Build a LinkedIn Profile
Ensure your CV and profile is up to date, your picture is (relatively) recent, and is to a business-standard. Don’t try and be funny.
You can find lots of information on how to do this online.
2) Passive Search
Applying to job advertisements, i.e., using LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, Reed, etc.
- This is the main method people use when searching for a job – which will mean you have a lot of competition.
Applying through a recruiter.
- You will usually be applying via a Recruiter: via a Search firm – either someone who works for an external company – or an Internal Recruiter.
- Be as open and as honest as you can; provided they’re good at their jobs, they may be able to influence the decision maker on your behalf.
Applying directly via company websites:
- This is more time-consuming.
- Usually, you will be applying directly to the HR Manager (who may not fully understand your skills – so make it very clear on your CV) or the direct Line Manager (which means your application may be given more consideration, especially if you’ve applied for a role slightly outside of your specialism).
3) Proactive Search
This is really the way you want to start applying.
Apply to the direct line manager who is responsible for hiring someone with your background. How?
Map out 25 companies where you can get an “in” – did an ex-colleague move there? An old friend from school? You met someone in the same team at a conference?
Though you do not know if they have a vacancy, chances are that they may like your approach and keep you in mind for the future or have something open but have not yet written an advertisement.
They may even open a vacancy if you are a direct fit for their business and your role is business critical. With huge demands in cyber and information security, chances are you may find something. Best case: they have something right now and you’re perfect for it. Worst case: they send you to HR. Well, worst case is they ignore you – but don’t be disheartened…
(Do not do approach the company directly if you are being introduced by a recruiter).
Next, map out 25 companies which are in your industry, specialism, or you just think are generally great. Apply directly to the line manager.
Continue mapping until you get somewhere. 50 target companies will be a good start to get you interviewing with 3-5 companies.
Map out your (minimum) 5 main considerations in a new job, you may choose:
- Salary
- Leader
- Location
- Company
- Ability to grow, etc.
Give all of the above considerations a points scale of 1-5, maybe even give double points to your top 1 or top 2… then map out all of the companies you are interviewing with (including your current company) and see how you get on. If you’re someone who bases things on “gut feel” then make it your #1 consideration.
You’ll be surprised how the decision-making process changes when you are being cold and calculated.
And lastly – good luck.
___
Whenever you’re ready, there are 2 ways I can help you:
1. If you’re an Employer:
→ Read our Free Guides: 10 Step Guide To Hiring A Security Specialist and 7 Steps To Fix Your Recruitment Process.
→ Download our Free eBook, “13 free tips you can use right now to hire security talent”. This is our ultimate 27-page guide to building your security team.
→ Or speak to me directly here: Book a Security Hiring Strategy Session.
2. If you’re a Candidate:
→ Read our Free Guide: How To Negotiate Salary.
→ We place security specialists across Europe. Get in touch if you are looking for another opportunity.
→ Or use our CV Rewriting Service to Fix Your CV.
___
Posted on 14th September 2022.
In my profession, I am regularly asked how to build a job search strategy. Here’s what I say…
Firstly, the main reason why people struggle to find something suitable is that they only apply to jobs that are exactly the right fit for what they want…
You probably spend a lot of time trawling through job advertisements, and only make a handful of submissions per day. Where does this get you?
Well, it leads to limited responses, fewer interviews, and then a frustration – which means starting the process all over again.
Here are the 3 steps for your job search strategy:
- Write your CV and Build a LinkedIn Profile
- Passive Search
- Proactive Search
1) Write your CV and Build a LinkedIn Profile
Ensure your CV and profile is up to date, your picture is (relatively) recent, and is to a business-standard. Don’t try and be funny.
You can find lots of information on how to do this online.
2) Passive Search
Applying to job advertisements, i.e., using LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, Reed, etc.
- This is the main method people use when searching for a job – which will mean you have a lot of competition.
Applying through a recruiter.
- You will usually be applying via a Recruiter: via a Search firm – either someone who works for an external company – or an Internal Recruiter.
- Be as open and as honest as you can; provided they’re good at their jobs, they may be able to influence the decision maker on your behalf.
Applying directly via company websites:
- This is more time-consuming.
- Usually, you will be applying directly to the HR Manager (who may not fully understand your skills – so make it very clear on your CV) or the direct Line Manager (which means your application may be given more consideration, especially if you’ve applied for a role slightly outside of your specialism).
3) Proactive Search
This is really the way you want to start applying.
Apply to the direct line manager who is responsible for hiring someone with your background. How?
Map out 25 companies where you can get an “in” – did an ex-colleague move there? An old friend from school? You met someone in the same team at a conference?
Though you do not know if they have a vacancy, chances are that they may like your approach and keep you in mind for the future or have something open but have not yet written an advertisement.
They may even open a vacancy if you are a direct fit for their business and your role is business critical. With huge demands in cyber and information security, chances are you may find something. Best case: they have something right now and you’re perfect for it. Worst case: they send you to HR. Well, worst case is they ignore you – but don’t be disheartened…
(Do not do approach the company directly if you are being introduced by a recruiter).
Next, map out 25 companies which are in your industry, specialism, or you just think are generally great. Apply directly to the line manager.
Continue mapping until you get somewhere. 50 target companies will be a good start to get you interviewing with 3-5 companies.
Map out your (minimum) 5 main considerations in a new job, you may choose:
- Salary
- Leader
- Location
- Company
- Ability to grow, etc.
Give all of the above considerations a points scale of 1-5, maybe even give double points to your top 1 or top 2… then map out all of the companies you are interviewing with (including your current company) and see how you get on. If you’re someone who bases things on “gut feel” then make it your #1 consideration.
You’ll be surprised how the decision-making process changes when you are being cold and calculated.
And lastly – good luck.
___
Whenever you’re ready, there are 2 ways I can help you:
1. If you’re an Employer:
→ Read our Free Guides: 10 Step Guide To Hiring A Security Specialist and 7 Steps To Fix Your Recruitment Process.
→ Download our Free eBook, “13 free tips you can use right now to hire security talent”. This is our ultimate 27-page guide to building your security team.
→ Or speak to me directly here: Book a Security Hiring Strategy Session.
2. If you’re a Candidate:
→ Read our Free Guide: How To Negotiate Salary.
→ We place security specialists across Europe. Get in touch if you are looking for another opportunity.
→ Or use our CV Rewriting Service to Fix Your CV.
___
Posted on 14th September 2022.