“You can’t buy that.”
When I was young, my mom would never buy me the shiny new toys I wanted.
I would watch my friends with envy as they got everything I could never have.
It was the same when it came to the job search. Everyone was celebrating work anniversaries on LinkedIn, and I could only watch with envy.
But after talking to hundreds of successful job seekers, I’ve uncovered the secret habits that helped them land the job.
Looking back, I noticed I got a job within weeks of applying these habits.
Psst: the last tip is my favourite! Read til the end to find out why.
This week’s newsletter is inspired by EntryLevel’s job search checklist, which guides you step-by-step through your job search. Grab it for $5 USD here: https://entrylevelprograms.gumroad.com/l/jobsearchchecklist
Tweet it, post it on LinkedIn, or put it on a private blog. It can be something small or a big project. It can be learning from a success or a failure.
The EntryLevel team agreed this is a key habit of successful job seekers. Here’s why 👇
You get used to a “work” routine.
You do something to improve every day, instead of just staying stagnant.
If you’re a perfectionist, consider this quote:
What’s scarier? Staying the same 1 year later, or putting imperfect work out there so you can improve with feedback?
Your network is your net worth.
Build relationships every week. Connect with someone - whether it’s through LinkedIn, an event, or a WhatsApp group you’re in.
Find LinkedIn connection note template here.
Joining a community related to your industry helps you learn faster with:
And more.
Alexa recommends the All About Data community for Data Analysts.
Events are a great way to network and build relationships. If you attend a workshop, you’ll also learn new things and stay up to date with the latest trends.
Every month, set a goal with your mentor. In the next month, report back about what you learned - whether you met that goal or not.
Tech is always changing. Take a course to ensure your skills are up-to-date.
EntryLevel’s programs are 6 weeks and have a portfolio project component built in to guide you through it.
Got rejected?
That’s okay. Have a growth over goals mindset and focus on getting feedback.
Learn and improve yourself based on the feedback you get.
My favourite tip.
Storytelling may be the key to landing your next job.
Stand out from other applicants by focusing on a theme you want the recruiter or hiring manager to remember.
Example: as a Product Manager, you want to be known for being creative within the constraints given.
All your experiences can be framed in this context - even if you don’t have previous experience.
Talk about how you created a unique product without paying anything to build it.
Talk about how you created a fun toy made completely out of paper as a child (which is what I did when my mom wouldn’t let me buy new toys).
If you can’t think of any experiences you have, refer to tip #2: take action to reach that goal.
Do these 10 habits and you’ll succeed: