We understand that searching for the perfect job can be a challenging and overwhelming experience.
It's like embarking on a sales process where you need to identify the right opportunities, apply, ace the interview, and then negotiate the terms of the deal.
While it may seem simple, there are often many roadblocks along the way that can make it a daunting task. But don't worry, we're here to make your journey smoother.
We've got you covered with some useful tips and tricks for every step of the process. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you towards the career of your dreams!
The Job Hunt Process
The job hunt process is essentially a sales process. Like any sales process, it has distinct steps:
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Step 1 - Finding opportunities
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Step 2 - Applying
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Step 3 - Interviewing
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Step 4 - Negotiation and closing
Your Job Hunting CRM
We did say this was a sales process right? Well, as you know, any (successful) sales process requires correct documentation and tracking using your CRM 🙂
When it comes to job hunting, keeping track of your progress is essential. A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool is a powerful way to do this, as it allows you to organize your job search, keep track of your applications, and monitor your interactions with potential employers.
One such tool that we highly recommend is Huntr, which streamlines the job application process by allowing you to easily track contacts, notes, dates, tasks, documents, job descriptions, salaries, locations, company data and more.
However, if you're not interested in using a dedicated CRM tool, an Excel sheet can be a great alternative.
The key is to have a system in place that allows you to document your job search progress, so you can stay organized and focused on your goal of finding the perfect job.
Sourcing great job opportunities
It’s time to start filling up your pipeline!
Step 1: What do you want?
Before you begin screening for potential opportunities, it’s important to narrow down what you want.
You need to know your ICP and ICB, you might have already done this when defining your goal for your personal brand, but in this one we want you to go a little bit deeper. Answer the following questions:
- Location: Where are you willing to work?
- Industry: Is there a specific industry you’re drawn to?
- Company size: Are you looking for a smaller company or a bigger one?
- Culture: What kind of culture do you prefer? Make sure it aligns with your values!
- Roles: What roles will you be going for? Sales Development Rep? Business Development Rep? Account Executive?
- Other: Any other criteria that is important to you.
Step 2: Start looking
Let’s have a look at two main ways through which you can discover job opportunities:
1. Job Boards
This one is pretty straightforward. Aside from the usual suspects (see the list below), we also recommend you search for job boards that are specific to the regions where you’re looking for employment. A simple “sales/SDR/BDR/AE jobs in X” on Google should do the trick.
Once you’re on the job board, filter for the criteria you have established in step 1 and start screening. When you see an opportunity you like, save it to your tracker.
Feeling lazy? Start with these:
2. Networking
Remember! The majority of the jobs are not published. This is why you need to go out and find them!
- Find interesting webinars and events to attend on a regular basis (weekly)
- Connect, meet, and chat with the people there
- Openly say you’re looking for employment
By now we’re sure you are an expert networker and know how to strike a conversation so we won’t go too deep into this one. Let the magic of networking work for itself ;)
How to apply to a job
“So it’s really easy, just click apply and send your CV, right?”
⛔ WRONG!
If you do that, your CV will get discarded 99% of the time.
Connect before you apply
Before sending out an application and becoming another file on a stack of resumes, reach out to any decision-maker in the recruitment process at the company of your choice.
By initiating communication beforehand you already distinguish yourself from other applicants while at the same time showcasing your initiative and motivation.
Let’s do a quick empathy exercise. If you were looking for a sales rockstar for your team, would you be bothered by this message?
Hey X, i’ve seen you’re looking for an SDR in Berlin. The job looks extremely appealing! Before applying and to make sure I don’t waste your time, I was wondering if [insert question of interest]
Not at all, right?
Interesting question examples include:
- … you already filled the role or is it still open?
- … you were looking with someone with industry expertise?
- … the role would serve a certain market?
- … you need a certain level of [language]?
They’re all segways into having interesting conversations that:
- Qualify the job and make sure neither of you waste time and
- Get you on their radar.
Who are the decision-makers?
Depends on the company size and type, but generally:
- Recruiters
- Heads/Team leads of HR
- Heads/Team leads of sales
etc.
How do I find the decision-makers?
Here are some ideas:
- Company website
- LinkedIn job post
- LinkedIn search
What next?
Don’t connect with your decision-makers just yet! Once you do, four outcomes might happen:
- Invite you directly for an interview
- Ask you to send your CV to someone
- They indicate the best way to apply is through their website
- No reply
In cases of 2, 3 and 4 (if there’s no reply, you should apply anyway), you will likely need to write an email or a cover letter.
Great job hunters, I hope you found these tips helpful! Remember, finding the perfect job can be a challenging process, but with perseverance, preparation, and a positive attitude, you can increase your chances of success.
Don't be afraid to ask for help or seek guidance along the way. And most importantly, believe in yourself and your abilities. You've got this! Good luck on your job search!
This article belongs to the ultimate guide to securing your dream job in 2023! Join us as we embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, diving into the secrets of building and promoting a standout professional identity, mastering the art of crafting a winning CV, LinkedIn profile, and networking strategy, and learning the best strategies for finding opportunities, acing interviews, and making the right career choices. Check the complete series here out!
Don't miss our next chapter, where we'll guide you through the process of crafting a perfect cover letter that will make you stand out!
