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a holistic approach

When I ask students how they search for jobs, they usually respond that they are searching on SEEK.com/ Gumtree.com.au.  

This approach should be part of your job search strategy, but limiting your efforts to this approach means missing opportunities.

Picture an iceberg, the only visible part is the tip which comprises a small portion of the entire mountain of ice.

Advertised roles represent a similar portion of the full population of roles available - only the tip of the iceberg.

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When applying for roles via SEEK, you are competing against everyone else utilising a job board approach

This results in missing opportunities to leverage more personalised introductions to your target employers.

21.3% of graduates found full-time roles through family/friends/work contacts/networking  reports Graduate Careers Australia

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Some strategies for you to reach the lower hanging fruit

Expand your network

  • Join a professional association related to your field. For example, CAANZ or CPA Australia.

  • Volunteer for community projects in an interest area to develop new skills to add to your resume/ bring you closer to your role of choice.

  • Attend meetings of your local Chamber of Commerce to tap into small businesses and demonstrate that you can add value.

  • Ask existing contacts whether they know anyone working in the industry or of employers you are targeting.

Join LinkedIn

  • 3m roles are advertised on LinkedIn, the platform is a powerful information and network provider.

  • Search your top 10 companies for current roles (these roles are often different to the roles advertised on company websites). You can also see who you are connected to in the organisation.

  • Utilise the LinkedIn groups to learn what is happening in the market and to develop new connections.

Hold information interviews with:

  • Alumni of Universities you have attended (identifiable through LinkedIn)

  • New connections through LinkedIn groups

  • Connections recommended by new connections

Attend Networking events through

  • Professional associations/industry bodies e.g. Engineers Australia, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.

  • University alumni events

  • Clubs & societies

Meet with recruiters

  • This should not be your whole approach, but one part of your holistic strategy.

  • Be selective and connect with 2 – 3 recruiters.

  • Approach those recommended or that consistently advertise your ideal roles.

  • Ensure recruiters only send your resume out with your permission

  • Keep in touch and try to give something back to these agents so they keep you top of mind

Look at professional and industry publications – they often include job ads

  • Examples include Lawyers Weekly, Acuity Magazine (CAANZ)

  • Remember to ask new connections if there is anyone they recommend you talk to.

  • By expanding your network and utilising a more holistic approach, you will increase your chances of securing a role and reduce the time it takes to achieve your goal.
     

Consistently applying the right processes will result in a fruitful outcome.

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