Never Struggle to Get Hired Again: Master the Job of Job Hunting

Getting hired isn’t just about sending resumes or hoping for the best. It’s a job in itself, with specific skills and processes. Freelancers know that finding work is a skill, separate from actually doing the work, but for some reason, full-time employees often don’t treat it the same way.

The better you get at the "getting hired job", the easier it becomes to land interviews, connect with hiring managers, and secure roles. Focus on these four core areas to be successful at getting hired: knowing your customer, following a process, mastering communication, and adopting a growth mindset.

1. Know Your Customer: Understand what's needed

Your customer is the hiring manager, and success starts with understanding their needs. Here’s how:

• Research the Industry: What challenges and trends shape the field? For example, if you’re targeting AdTech, understand how companies are using programmatic advertising, data analytics, or AI-driven tools.

• Understand the Role: What does success in this position look like? What problems are you solving for the team?

• Understand the Technologies Used: Know the tools, platforms, and frameworks that are standard in the industry and role. Tailor your skills and applications accordingly.

Pro Tip: Use networking to learn about what that matter most. Conversations with professionals in similar roles can reveal trends and skills that set you apart.

2. Follow a Process: Treat Job Hunting Like a Workflow

A structured process keeps your job search organized and focused.

• Track Your Efforts: Log applications, networking contacts, follow-ups, and feedback in a spreadsheet or tool. Use this data to identify what’s working.

• Set Goals: Define measurable goals. For example, apply for five roles weekly, schedule three networking calls, and follow up on two pending applications.

• Think About Your Funnel: Where are your opportunities dropping off? Are you not getting interviews, or are interviews failing to convert? Focus your energy on fixing the weakest link.

Pro Tip: Use statistics to track your progress. Measure how many applications lead to interviews and adjust your strategy. Focus on high-impact activities like targeted networking and attending industry events.

3. Master Communication: Present Yourself Effectively

Your ability to communicate your value is critical to landing a job.

• Refine Your Resume: Focus on impact, not just responsibilities. Tailor your resume to highlight the skills and achievements relevant to the role.

• Practice Interviewing: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. Rehearse clear and confident explanations of your accomplishments.

• Why You Are the Right Person for the Job: Before convincing others, you must first convince yourself. Reflect and prepare key talking points about why you are uniquely suited for the role. These points will shine through in your resume, cover letter, and interviews.

  
  

Pro Tip: The best way to improve is to experience the hiring process from the other side. Review resumes and conduct mock interviews as if you were the hiring manager. This perspective helps sharpen your own approach.

4. Adopt a Growth Mindset: Improve the Skills, Not Just the Outcome

The goal is more than just landing interviews—it’s about improving your job search skills for long-term success.

• Are You Improving? Reflect on your tools, targeting, and connections. Are you consistently refining your approach to see better results?

• Focus Beyond Applications: Are there certifications or skills you’re missing? For example, a PMP certification might boost your profile for project management roles.

• Ask the Right Question: What’s the one area that, if improved, would have the biggest impact on your job search?

Pro Tip: Build a support system. Join a job search group or connect with peers who can provide feedback and keep you motivated.

Getting Hired Is a Life Skill

Jobs change. Companies close. People relocate, change careers, or prioritize new lifestyles. You don’t know what the future holds, but mastering the job of finding a job gives you lifelong security. If you have the skills to find a job, you’ll never struggle for long.