7 Job-Seeking Advice From Professionals on LinkedIn Asia
Anyone who has gone through the job-seeking process knows it isn’t easy. Even before applying for jobs, candidates need to identify what roles would fit them and if they have the skill sets to meet the job descriptions. On top of that, there are other administrative preparations like updating resumes and ensuring certificates or portfolios are in order.
LinkedIn News Asia recently opened the floor to professionals asking them for their best career advice.
Here are the top 7 job-seeking advice that professionals wish you knew.
1. Use a step-by-step process
Career Coach Mei Phing Lim believes that job searching should be done through a 6-step process, and not be left to chance. Her steps are:
- Identify career interests and direction
- Revamp resume and LinkedIn profile
- Deploy effective job search strategies like LinkedIn jobs and networking efforts
- Boost interview skills
- Enhance soft skills
- Think ahead with career growth strategy
Indeed having a plan and checklist helps job seekers to focus on what they can do, rather than being overwhelmed by the process. Mei Phing believes in identifying the value that each individual has to offer, developing them and highlighting them in interviews. She also believes in growing skills and creating opportunities for yourself.
2. Keep learning
Talent Advisor Kiran Bhatia encourages candidates to acquire knowledge relentlessly, whether about the job or about the interviewer. She believes that having a larger network of people will give candidates an upper hand in landing a job interview.
She added that age is irrelevant in career building as what’s important to perform a role is the knowledge and skills that you have.
3. You always have options
Corporate Strategist Eric Chua believes that there is always a job for everyone. He encourages job-seekers to never give up although the job market can get very competitive.
“…despite your best efforts, you may not land the job. Don’t be disappointed or discouraged. You will find another job,” said Chua
Sometimes, candidates can get too focused on landing a particular role with one particular company that they miss out on other opportunities. Closing doors to options can hamper efforts in finding a suitable job.
4. Be authentic
Career and Relationship Coach Irene Chin encourages job-seekers to be true to themselves. She believes that everyone has a story to tell, and having that unique edge can highlight a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses, and help them stand out amongst other candidates.
“Understanding how to tell an authentic story about yourself allows the prospective employer to see you.”
5. They are not rejecting you
Leadership and Executive Coach Sruthi Venkatramani reminds job seekers not to take rejection too personally.
“A lot of us tend to feel bad when we are rejected as prospects for an opportunity. It is important to understand that they do not reject the person, what they reject is the person’s suitability (fitment) to the role!”
Sruthi added that there could be various reasons why a candidate’s application is rejected. After being on ‘the other side’ and learning more about HR’s internal processes, he is now able to understand that sometimes rejection can be based on so many different factors.
6. Work hard, work smart
Author Rose M. believes in the old adage of putting in the hours to achieve your goals. On top of that, she advocates for working smart, where time is a valued commodity.
She believes a good work culture is built on innovation, hard work, efficiency and work-life balance. Rose champions empathy and kindness in the workplace.
7. Lean into your strengths
Forbes Coaches Council Member and Agile Leadership Coach Chuen Chuen Yeo implores working professionals to be discerning of their own strengths and abilities. Understanding what drives you to produce good work can help you find a job that is aligned with your career goals.
“What makes others happy might not be your thing. When you maximise your strengths, it’s easy to reach a state of flow,” said Yeo
She added that leaning into your own strengths will make work feel like play.
As every company is built differently, the recruitment process may vary from one organisation to another. The same goes with individuals and how well each person fits into a company culture.
If you haven’t found the right job yet, use these principles to guide you on your next job search. Alternatively, you can also access free tools to help you discover your unique strengths, suitable industries and skill gaps to help you achieve your career goals here.
