7 Ways to Make a New Job Come to You (Instead of the Other Way Around)
Job hunting can be exhausting. After all, it takes a lot of effort on your part to get out there to find the opportunities in the first place, and then convince hiring managers to choose you.
But what if you didn't have to? What if hiring managers just found and chose you all on their own, with little to no effort on your part?
It's called passive job hunting, and you can make that happen. Here's how to make jobs come to you, instead of the other way around.
1. Let people know you'd welcome new opportunities.
Don't be afraid to tell anyone and everyone willing to listen that you're available and welcome new opportunities with open arms. Whether that's an occasional Facebook post, a willingness to lend a hand whenever a friend or colleague needs help, an opening line on your LinkedIn or small talk you have at a networking event, let people know that you are someone they should keep in mind when opportunities arise.
2. Keep active on LinkedIn.
Always maintain an active LinkedIn profile, because hiring managers and recruiters look to LinkedIn to scout talent. So make sure that yours is always up to date with your most recent experiences, and be active on the platform, engaging in discussions, sharing articles, liking posts and networking with other like-minded professionals.
3. Make your portfolio pop.
If you have a portfolio, make sure it's an attention-grabbing portfolio. If you don't have a portfolio, it may be time to make one. Portfolios are especially useful for professionals in the creative industry — designers, writers, photographers, architects, artists, developers, etc. You should have an easily searchable site that showcases your work in a clean, neat format so that, if someone is searching for professionals like you and stumble upon your portfolio on their own, they'd be inclined to reach out.
4. Create profiles on job websites.
Create profiles on job websites like Upwork or SolidGigs or Freelancer, etc. Having a presence on these platforms means that hiring managers can find you. These are great sites for freelancers, especially, as well as for those looking for "gig" work that's not necessarily full time (contracts are more common).
5. Have an updated profile on Fairygodboss.
Make sure your FGB profile is updated, as well! After all, Fairygodboss is the largest career community for women, which makes it an ideal place to network with others, find jobs, create opportunities for yourself and allow people to find you. Grow your network on Fairygodboss by inviting people to connect with you and sharing more about yourself on your profile.
6. Build your personal brand on social media.
Social media was once a risky zone for job searchers. But, in today's world, social media can really make your career. If you're a photographer, you can use Instagram to showcase your work. If you're a travel writer, Instagram can be used to show your travels. If you're an interior designer, Instagram can also serve as a place to showcase your designs. Use Instagram, Facebook and other social media platforms to boost your professional image.
7. Stay relevant in your industry.
Whatever you do, stay relevant in your industry. It's easier said than done, and it requires some work on your part, but the more relevant you are, the more you'll come to people's minds when opportunities pop up. Here's how to stay relevant in your industry, from attending networking events to keeping in touch with former colleagues and bosses.
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AnnaMarie Houlis is a feminist, a freelance journalist and an adventure aficionado with an affinity for impulsive solo travel. She spends her days writing about women’s empowerment from around the world. You can follow her work on her blog, HerReport.org, and follow her journeys on Instagram @her_report, Twitter @herreport and Facebook.
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