#30DayChallenge – Week 3: It’s Time to Apply

Now that we’ve conquered Week 1 of securing our dream jobs by defining what our aspirations actually look like, and taken on Week 2 by devising a plan to position ourselves for the jobs that we desire, now it’s time to throw our hats in the ring by starting to apply.

Here’s how:

Job Sites for the Win

Thanks to a few trusty websites including LinkedIn, CareerBuilder, Indeed, Monster, and more, applying for jobs has become easier than ever before.

A few of these sites now offer one-click apply options where your previously inserted job history, including responsibilities, dates of employment, and even references can be submitted to a potential employer with the mere click of a button. This luxury is as convenient as it sounds but used haphazardly, it can also work against you.

Here is what you need to know prior to clicking “apply”:

1. Make sure that your profiles on these job sites are as thorough, professional, and informative as possible. All many employers have to gauge who you are and if they’d like to work with you, is what they’re seeing on your page. Be certain that you’re putting your best foot forward.
2. Keep in mind, though, that one-click applications don’t allow you the opportunity to tailor your résumé to adequately suit each job you’re applying for, so be sure that the descriptions of your abilities and responsibilities are well rounded and all-inclusive.
3. Note that one-click is so easy that everyone is doing it, thus raising the likelihood of your application getting lost in the shuffle. Try to find a way to have your uniqueness shine through. This may take a little finessing, but you surely have what it takes.

Tap into Your Network

Once you’re ready to begin applying for jobs, you don’t want to underestimate the power of your network. If you happen to be a member of any relevant organizations, groups, clubs, fraternities, sororities, etc., now would be the ideal time to let them know exactly what you’re looking for, as they may be able to help you get just that.

Your social capital can be more impactful than you can imagine, especially in the job market. It’s not always the most qualified who gets the job. Sometimes, it all boils down to who you know.

Also, if you’re active on social media and you’re connected to people in your industry, put feelers out. Let your community know that you’re on the hunt. You never know, your next position could be a tweet away.

Consider Headhunters and Employment Agencies

No need to leave any stones unturned. Look into soliciting a professional middleman to do a bit of the legwork for you. Find a personnel recruiter in your industry and let them know exactly what you’re seeking. Agencies are often hired by corporations to find the most

suitable candidates (read: you) for certain positions. Reach out directly, offering them your qualifications, expectations, and requirements. Many of these headhunters/recruiters will add you to their databases and act as a liaison between you and a potential employer when opportunities arise.

Here is where all of the groundwork you’ve laid over the past weeks starts to pay off. Look forward to those interview invites rolling in. We’ll prepare for the interview process next week.

Happy hunting!

To get a full scoop of the rest of the #30DayChallenge be sure to check out Week 1, Week 2, and Week 4.

Safon Floyd is the Digital Editor for Black Enterprise. Follow her @accordingtofon.