Welcome to our Ask a Recruiter Series, where our Creative Talent Representatives answer your burning questions related to job hunting, resume submission, portfolios, and more.
This month, meet Amy Hayes! Amy is a Chicago-based resume wizard with a deep knowledge base of UX and other digital roles.
Q: My New Year's Resolution is to get a new job, but it's almost February and I don't have one. Help!
A: 2018 New Year's Resolutions — lose weight? Write that novel? Take that trip? Get a new job? If "new job" is what is on your 2018 to-do list, then here are some tips to help you with your job search!
- "Brand" yourself — that's right. Determine who you are as a professional, and be sure that your resume, cover letter, social media presence, etc., are consistently, seamlessly branded, so employers know who you are and what you are about. What value do you bring? How can you help their organization — what problems can you solve?
- Tailor your resume to the job, and be sure to write a cover letter that explains why you want to work for that company, and how you can bring value in the role. Too many people use the same cookie cutter cover letter, and employers notice that! Let them know you want to work at THAT company specifically, and why THAT role is the one for you!
- If you are a creative, you MUST have a portfolio to demonstrate your work. A website is best. Make sure it represents you in the best possible way — ensure it's consistent with your branding, has samples of only your BEST work, and shows your versatility. This is your opportunity to show what you are capable of doing, and how you will bring value to your new company.
- Don't give up, and use your network! The usual job search takes 3–6 months, and you'll likely to apply to over 100 jobs. Also be sure to tap into your network — it's the most effective method to find a job. Don't just apply on job boards! Talk to people, make connections, ask questions, and get yourself out there!
Need more help? Consider signing up with a Staffing Agency like Artisan.
Amy Hayes is a Recruiter in the Artisan Chicago office. She holds degrees in Psychology, and has a background in career coaching and resume writing. When not matching talent to amazing job opportunities for Artisan, she loves reading mysteries and thrillers, and watching the Investigation Discovery channel with her two Persian cats.