The job market is highly competitive and constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay ahead of the curve when you’re looking for a job. Here are 12 tips and tools to use in your online job hunt in 2022.

Find a resume builder with a proven track record of success

When you’re looking for a job, your resume is your biggest asset. Make sure you’re using a resume builder that has a proven track record of success. There are plenty of great resume builders out there, but not all of them are created equal. Do your research and find one that will help you create a resume that will get you noticed by employers.

Use a professional email address

Your email address is one of the first things employers will see when they’re looking at your resume. Make sure you’re using a professional email address that includes your name, not something cutesy or unprofessional.

This will help you create a good first impression and ensure that employers take you seriously. Gmail is really the only email host that will cut it these days when it comes to a job search. If you’re currently using something like Hotmail or Yahoo, it is probably time to upgrade.

Make sure your social media is clean

Employers will often check out your social media profiles before they decide to interview you. Make sure that your social media accounts are presentable and professional. This means no drunken photos, no profanity, and no inflammatory posts. If you wouldn’t want your boss or a potential employer to see it, then it doesn’t belong on your social media. Keep it clean and be mindful of what you post online.

Start networking

If you’re not already networking, now is the time to start. Get connected with people in your industry and start making connections. Attend industry events, join relevant professional organizations, and reach out to people you know. The more connections you have, the better your chances of finding a job. Networking can be a great way to find jobs that aren’t even posted yet, so it’s definitely worth your time and effort.

Use a job search engine

There are plenty of great job search engines out there that can help you find the right job. Simply enter in your desired job title and location and you’ll be presented with a list of relevant job openings. These job search engines are a great way to see what’s out there and get an idea of the types of jobs that are available.

Create a strong LinkedIn profile

LinkedIn is a powerful tool that can help you connect with employers and find jobs. In fact, up to 85 percent of all jobs are now found through networking on sites like Linkedin. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and includes all of the relevant information about your skills and experience. Don’t forget to include a professional headshot and make sure that your information is up to date. Linkedin can be one of the best places to find a job and network with other professionals in your industry, so having a well-done profile is non-negotiable right now.

Stay up to date on industry news

If you want to be a competitive candidate, you need to stay up to date on industry news. Read trade publications, blogs, and other news sources so that you’re always in the know. This will not only make you more informed, but it will also make you more marketable to employers. They want to see that you’re knowledgeable and passionate about your industry, so stay up to date on the latest news.

Consider freelance work

If you’re having trouble finding a full-time job, consider freelance work. This can be a great way to get your foot in the door and gain relevant experience. Plus, it’s a great way to make some extra money while working remote. There are plenty of websites that connect freelancers with businesses that need their services.

Get a job in a related field

If you’re struggling to find a job in your desired field, consider pursuing a job in a related field. This can help you gain the experience and skills you need to eventually get the job you really want. It may not be your dream job, but it’s a stepping stone in the right direction.

Write a great cover letter

Your cover letter is your opportunity to sell yourself to potential employers and, as such, is of the utmost importance. Make sure you take the time to write a great cover letter that highlights your skills and experience. This is not the time to be modest – sell yourself and make sure that your cover letter gets you noticed. You might also want to consider a cover letter tool to help plan out and provide some (very often) much-needed structure to the cover letter.

Practice your interview skills

Once you start getting interviews, it’s important to be prepared. Practice your interviewing skills so that you can make a great impression on potential employers. There are plenty of resources available to help you practice, so take advantage of them. The more prepared you are, the better your chances of getting the job.

Keep trying

If at first, you don’t succeed, keep trying. The job search can be frustrating, but it’s important to stay positive and keep moving forward. Keep applying for jobs and networking, and eventually, you’ll find the right job for you. Persistence is key when it comes to the job search, so don’t give up. Equally important is diversifying the way in which you continue to look for jobs while you are persevering.

If you find that a certain tactic is just not turning up any results for you, consider expanding your search to other venues. This could include Linkedin, job boards outside of your original geographical area, online jobs, and even working with a recruiter or agency to try and increase your reach and options.

Conclusion

When looking for a job, it’s important to use a variety of resources and strategies. By using a combination of these 12 tips, you stand a much better chance of finding a job in a field or industry you are interested in and in a timeframe that isn’t going to turn your life upside down.