By Veronica Vannoy

At some point in time, you will find yourself looking for a new career opportunity. When that occurs, friends and family will want to give you career advice, but we suggest you get tips straight from recruiting experts. At Cordia Resources, we work with employers and individuals to make the perfect candidate-employer match. Here are five tips to help make your job search successful. 

1) Don’t limit yourself to online applications.

Applying online is often the first step to the application process, but don’t stop there. Do research online and on social media to see if you know people working at the company of interest and connect with them.  Staying in front of those who might have influence in you getting an interview can really pay off. You may also want to approach an internal recruiter and ask a few questions. This may provide additional insight into culture fit, skills, and other requirements.

2) Get a LinkedIn profile or you really don’t exist.

More than 90% of recruiters use LinkedIn as their primary tool to connect with candidates. Whether you are actively looking for a job or not, when recruiters are seeking candidates with specific skills in a set geographic area, they will find your profile if you have one. Do you really want to miss a new career opportunity by not being on LinkedIn? If you are on LinkedIn, then make sure your profile is up-to-date and it represents you well. Be active and you will be sure to get noticed.

3) Create an employer wish list.

You might not be 100% sure of your next role, but I am sure you have thought about a few companies you would love to work for. Make a list of those companies, read about them, and understand the roles they place. This will help you identify your ideal job and allow you to hone in on the right opportunities. Understanding company values and culture fit is key to finding a dream job. If you know the type of company you want to work for, let a recruiter know and he/she will try to match you with that type of company.

4) Talk to a recruiter. 

You have probably been approached by a recruiter through a LinkedIn message, email or phone call. Recruiters are actively involved in searching for candidates to fill open positions so when they see strong candidates (whether they are looking for a new position or not) they reach out. The intent is to gain your trust, listen to your goals and objectives, and learn if the open opportunity or any others available in the future might be a good fit for you. You have nothing to lose by talking to recruiters. One conversation might lead to your next career opportunity, especially when you weren’t actively looking for it. 

5) Leverage your professional network.

Take the time to talk to peers and professionals you know who work in multiple fields. The most effective networking is the daily one that happens on a call, at a meeting, or at an event. Surrounding yourself around professionals and asking questions about their roles and their companies can often lead to job introductions and/or recommendations. Treat every interaction as an opportunity to make a connection and stay in touch.   

For more information on job search tips or speak to one of our recruiters, contact us. 

Interested in learning more about our recruiting team? Meet the team 

About Cordia Resources

Cordia Resources is a leading recruiting, executive search, professional consulting and temporary staffing firm specializing in placing accounting, finance, contract administration and human resources professionals throughout the Washington, DC region. Our expert search, recruiting and staffing solutions support business growth in the commercial and not-for-profit markets, government contracting, technology, professional services, hospitality, real estate and many other industries. Learn more about our staffing solutions at http://www.cordiaresources.com/

About Cordia Partners

Cordia Partners is a leading provider of outsourced accounting, technology consulting, and business advisory services in the Washington, DC region. Our proactive, client-centered approach allows you to focus on your core competencies and overall success of your business. We support government contractors, commercial firms and not-for-profit organization during all stages of business growth with best practices and real-world strategies that drive results. Learn more about our consulting and outsourced accounting solutions at www.cordiapartners.com.