As one of the leading employment agencies in Rancho Cordova, Pacific Staffing knows that in today’s economy, it can take months – or even more than a year – to find a position that’s right for you. That’s the depressing part. The good news is that there are some steps you can take to increase your odds of uncovering opportunities and land the job you want.

Step 1. Ask for Help 

In our society, we tend to be more independent, doing things on our own rather than asking for help from others. But a job search is exactly the kind of situation in which you should be asking for help from the get-go – help from your friends, neighbors, family, peers, former colleagues, fellow alumni, etc. When you reach out to others, you are far more likely to find out about openings that aren’t always advertised.

Step 2. Think About What You’re Good At

A lot of career advice recommends that you follow your passion when it comes to finding a great job. But what if your passion is collecting stamps or bird-watching? The chance of being able to turn those passions into viable career opportunities is slim to none.

Instead, think about what you are good at and what you like doing. It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re incredibly passionate about it right now. And in fact, many times, passion for work develops over time.

Step 3. Target the Top 

If you’re interested in working for a certain company, why send a query letter with your resume to HR? At the end of the day, they’re not going to be the ones making the hiring decision. More than likely, it’s going to be the head of whatever department the job is in.

So if you’re an IT professional, start at the top – with the CIO. If you’re an accountant, reach out to the accounting manager or CFO. These are the people who make the hiring decisions and who will have a better understanding of your background and the value you can offer.

Step 4. Apply to Jobs…Strategically 

You find a job you’re interested in, apply online and wait to hear back. You do this again and again…and nothing. No results.

Sound familiar? This is the endless cycle many job candidates find themselves in.

Instead, when a job gets posted you’re interested in, don’t apply immediately. First, research the company and the position to see if you know anyone who works there. Reach out to them and ask them about what they like or don’t like about the company and if they have any tips for getting hired. More than likely, most will offer to give you a referral or walk your resume to HR, helping you to avoid the resume black hole.

Need more help finding your next great job? Let Pacific Staffing know. 

As one of the leading employment agencies in Rancho Cordova, we’ll take the time to learn about your career goals, work environment preferences, interests, and aspirations. It’s how we’re able to go to work, finding opportunities that are a terrific showcase for your unique talents and personality. Contact us today to get started.