Can't Get A Job? (Watch This NOW)

Summary

Job hunting has become significantly harder in recent years, especially with the rise of remote work. However, traditional methods like submitting resumes blindly are outdated. To succeed in today’s job market, you must tap into the hidden job market—70% of positions aren’t advertised. Effective strategies include building a personal brand on LinkedIn and Twitter, networking strategically, showcasing skills through portfolios, and cold pitching companies. Don't rely on degrees; prove your skills through hands-on projects. Embrace rejection as a learning opportunity, and keep refining your approach. The key is persistence and resourcefulness—create your own opportunities and stand out in a crowded market.

Takeaways

• 😀 Don't rely solely on job boards: 70% of jobs are never publicly advertised. Tap into the hidden job market through networking.
• 😀 Remote work is booming: Remote jobs have grown by 159% since 2009, opening up thousands of job opportunities globally.
• 😀 Skills matter more than degrees: Many companies prioritize your abilities over formal education, especially for roles that don't require a degree.
• 😀 Build your personal brand: Your online presence (LinkedIn, Twitter) serves as your digital resume, showcasing your skills and value.
• 😀 Network strategically: Engage meaningfully with industry leaders online through LinkedIn and Twitter, offering value before asking for anything in return.
• 😀 Cold pitching works: Reach out to companies with value-first proposals, offering solutions to problems before they hire you.
• 😀 Embrace rejection: Use every rejection as an opportunity to refine your approach and improve for the next opportunity.
• 😀 Gain experience through micro-commitments: Even small freelance jobs or projects can build your experience and help you land bigger opportunities.
• 😀 Create a standout portfolio: Make sure your portfolio is easy to consume, with clear explanations of projects, results, and the skills you applied.
• 😀 Consistent learning and applying skills: Keep up with the latest industry trends by engaging online, learning new skills, and demonstrating them in your portfolio and personal brand.

Q & A

Why is the traditional method of applying for jobs, like submitting resumes to online job boards, not effective anymore?

The traditional method of applying to jobs online, especially through job boards, is less effective because many positions now go unadvertised, and the competition is fierce. Most of these opportunities are hidden in the 'job market iceberg,' meaning they aren't visible to the general public.

What is the 'hidden job market' and why is it important?

The hidden job market refers to jobs that are never publicly advertised. About 70% of all job openings are never posted online, so it's crucial to tap into this market by networking and building personal connections with decision-makers.

How can strategic networking help in finding job opportunities?

Strategic networking involves reaching out to industry professionals, engaging with their content on platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter, and offering value before asking for opportunities. This builds relationships and uncovers job opportunities that aren't listed publicly.

What are the key steps for effective online networking?

To network effectively, identify your target companies or industries, find key people such as recruiters or hiring managers on LinkedIn or Twitter, engage meaningfully by offering value, and then start conversations about potential job openings.

How can a portfolio be used to showcase skills to potential employers?

A portfolio is a crucial tool for showcasing your skills. It should clearly explain your projects, the results you achieved, and the specific skills used. Make it easy to navigate and provide context through videos or brief explanations to ensure it’s not overwhelming for employers.

Why is building a personal brand on LinkedIn and Twitter important for job seekers?

Your personal brand acts as your digital resume. By curating your presence on LinkedIn and Twitter, sharing your knowledge, engaging with industry leaders, and optimizing your profile with relevant keywords, you increase your visibility and make yourself more attractive to potential employers.

What is the significance of creating a YouTube channel or online content for job seekers?

Creating a YouTube channel or publishing online content on platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter can position you as an authority in your field. It helps showcase your expertise and skills, making you more likely to be noticed by recruiters or hiring managers.

What is a cold pitch, and how can it help land a job?

A cold pitch involves reaching out to companies directly with a personalized email, offering value before asking for a job. By showing how you can solve a specific problem or improve a company's processes, you demonstrate initiative and stand out as a proactive candidate.

How can someone gain experience if they don’t meet the 'required' experience for a job?

You can start by taking on small freelance projects, part-time work, or even doing microtasks for free or a low fee. These experiences help you build a track record and demonstrate your skills, which can eventually lead to more significant opportunities.

How should job seekers handle rejection during the job search process?

Rejection should be embraced as a learning opportunity. Use feedback to refine your approach, improve your skills, and keep applying. Remember, all it takes is one 'yes,' and every rejection brings you closer to that success.