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IT professionals are in huge demand right now. So, is it time to kick back, relax, and wait for jobs to fall into your lap?

 

Not quite.

 

Putting your job search on autopilot will probably get you A job–but doing a little extra right now could get you THE job of your dreams. This is a time of unprecedented opportunities, and if you don’t grab them, your rivals will.

 

To help you secure that dream IT job in 2022, start working on these six job search goals:

 

Goal #1: Update your CV and LinkedIn profile

 

Don’t wait until you find a job ad that interests you before you update your CV. That’ll mean you have to waste time updating it before you can apply–by which time it may be too late. It’s much better to do it in advance.

 

At the same time, update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your most recent professional accomplishments. Both employers and recruiters often search LinkedIn for candidates. Your LinkedIn profile is your online CV, so you want it to look polished and reflect the same information as your CV.

 

Goal #2: Update your skill set

 

The pace of change is faster than ever, so to stay relevant, you need to constantly update your skills. Learning a new skill, coding language or earning a certification shows your initiative, commitment to learning, and awareness of what it takes to excel in your field.

 

What’s more, it makes it easier to answer the perennial interview question: “How can you add value to this organisation?” – and it might help you negotiate a higher salary.

 

Goal #3: Look for a role that makes you happy

 

Think about your professional and personal goals and work out exactly what you’re looking for. What would make you happy in a job?

 

While higher pay or a fancier job title might help, are they more important than a shorter commute, a great culture, or lots of potential for advancement? Get a clear picture of the job you want, and you’ll have a much easier time finding it.

 

Goal #4: Audit your social media

 

Many employers will look beyond LinkedIn and check out your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and so on. Will they like what they see?

 

Make sure all the information on your social media is current and accurate, and make sure it presents you in the best possible light. That might mean deleting any rants or embarrassing photos, or just reviewing your privacy settings.

 

Goal #5: Build your professional network

 

There’s more to finding your ideal role than just looking for jobs online. You need to expand your professional network, not only online but offline too.

 

Conferences, trade shows, employer-hosted open houses, and events held by professional organisations are all great places to expand your professional network by meeting hiring managers, recruiters, and contacts who may be able to tip you off about a great opportunity.

 

Goal #6: Be persistent

 

Despite the current job market, employers still want to make sure they have the right person for the job, and it may be weeks before you hear back about a position. Nothing is certain until your signature is on the contract.

 

So don’t wait around–stay in touch with the hiring manager. Keep networking and applying for other jobs. And of course, build a relationship with a good recruiter. So even if you already have irons in the fire, it’s always worth getting in touch with us today.

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