I've been a coach myself, working my way up from an amateur voluntary coach, to working full-time at senior, professional level abroad, and I know how difficult it is to find a job in a hyper-competitive industry. However, it is something I was able to do successfully as a coach, and something I help others to do as a career consultant.
Starting a job search journey requires careful preparation and in a competitive environment, 'standing out' becomes one of the most important strategies you can use.
Here are five crucial steps you can't afford to skip before getting stuck into the job market and five crucial steps that many coaches are not taking:
1. Create Job Specific CVs:
Your CV is your first impression, so make it count. Instead of sending out generic resumes, tailor each one to the specific job you're applying for - that's right... 'Each One'...meaning you should be using more than one! If your CV is outdated an no longer eye-catching compared to your competitors', you need to update it right now!
Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that resonate with the job description and show evidence that supports the statements you make - remember, hiring managers are crazy busy with applications, so make it easy for them to see why you're unique and a perfect fit for what they are looking for.
2. Revamp Your Cover Letters:
Cover letters are your opportunity to showcase your personality and enthusiasm for the role and just like your CV, it should be written specifically to qualify you for the job specifications listed. Update yours to reflect your genuine interest in the position and the organization, whilst again providing examples and evidence of how you can be a great fit for their organization / team / staff.
A personalized cover letter can make all the difference in catching the recruiter's attention and you do this by qualifying yourself, showing your unique selling points and not showing you are a generic sheep who hasn't researched the role or organization.
3. Leverage Social Media:
No matter what people say or what you think, your online presence DOES matter more than ever! It's no coincidence that you notice the coaches more, who are actively updating their profile and sharing their latest achievements - if you notice them, it's a very good chance that potential employers and recruiters notice them too!
Use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your expertise, achievements, and professional journey, and most importantly.... get your LinkedIn profile updated! Share relevant articles, engage with industry influencers, and join groups to expand your network. Like it or not, you are your own personal brand and those with a good brand, will likely have extra momentum when trying to build their careers.
4. Master the Art of Networking:
Networking isn't just about sending random messages to other coaches, leaving generic replies on their posts or getting in touch with others, only when you need something - it's about building genuine relationships.
Reach out to colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts to let them know you're exploring new opportunities and also to check up and show genuine interest in their own situations. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and participate in online forums to expand your network. Remember, networking is a two-way street, so be sure to offer support and value to your connections as well.
5. Apply for Jobs Strategically:
When it comes to job applications, quality trumps quantity. Instead of spraying your CV across every job board, email contact and posting blindly on LinkedIn, focus on roles that align with your career goals and interests, whilst knowing that you can hit all the specific job specs - applying for too many unreachable roles (at that moment) can lead to demotivation and desperate energy.
Research each company thoroughly and tailor your application to demonstrate your understanding of their values and culture. When you do apply, pay attention to detail—double-check your emails for typos and ensure your communications are professional, specific and concise.
REMEMBER, you also need to be making your emails you send specific to each job you apply to, this includes even the subject title!
If your CV / resume is in need of a change, I've got you covered and will also give you Cover Letter Templates and access to a Job Application workshop. Get started here
Thank you for reading and as always, all the best!
Matt
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