How to Think Outside the Box When Looking for a Job

Trying to get a job can feel like second nature to some, but for others, it’s one of the most daunting tasks ever. The idea that you’re applying to a job that could be seen by hundreds, or even thousands of other people, can make you feel really inadequate and hurt any motivation that you have.

But did you know that aside from just looking at job boards, there are other ways to potentially land a job? And in some cases, these alternate methods could impress employers far more than just a good resume and cover letter.

Visit different company websites and check their career pages

Job boards are just a convenient way for companies to list their openings and ensure that they get seen by lots of people. But did you know that lots of companies have career pages on their websites? Even random websites that you’ve browsed probably have some kind of careers page, encouraging people to send in their resumes with the prospect of getting hired.

From body repair mechanic jobs to cyber security roles, there are so many potential jobs that you could apply to. Due to the nature of the internet, many of these roles are also remote. If there’s a particular company that you want to work for, then you might get lucky and see that they have job openings available for different levels of skill and expertise.

Start a side project and establish yourself online

Side projects are a fantastic way to demonstrate your abilities. For example, it’s not uncommon for programmers to get hired after contributing to projects on GitHub, and artists are almost always hired based on their portfolio because it showcases what kind of art they create. Building up a portfolio means there’s some proof of your skills, and you can show this to potential employers whenever you apply for a job.

However, establishing yourself online could be a more lucrative option. This is especially the case if you want to be self-employed, or would just prefer to freelance instead of working for a company. It’s often the preferred career style for creatives as it means they can use their skills in a variety of different environments. Opening up your options also means more chances of landing a job because you’re attracting more potential recruiters.

Get on social media and start following the industry

Whenever you want a break from applying to jobs and browsing job boards, you could consider getting on social media and following the industry. There are many smaller companies that post messages on social media whenever they’re looking to hire. Getting to know veterans on social media can also be a good way to start networking and break into the industry, opening you up to more job opportunities.

As the saying goes, it’s who you know that will help you get a job. Networking can be daunting for some, but it’s an essential skill to develop no matter what industry you plan to work in.