Top Tech Job Hunting Tips for 2020

January is a popular month for job seekers, as individuals use the start of the New Year to look at their current career paths and contemplate whether they want to change them.

So will 2020 be the year in which you switch jobs? It’s as good a time as any! In fact, 2020 is more significant than most years because not only does it mark the start of a new decade, but it’s also a leap year (366 days long).

With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of top job hunting tips for 2020 to help you land that perfect role. And because we specialise in recruiting for the engineering and scientific sectors here at Polytec, this post has a slight tech spin.

1. Polish your online presence to a shine

While CVs and cover letters are still relevant today, it’s your online presence that companies and recruiters will often come across first. So make sure your public social media profiles - especially LinkedIn - are up to date with relevant information, include any recommendations you’ve received and clearly highlight your experience and skills.

[Related reading: How To Optimise LinkedIn For Your Job Search - https://www.polytec.co.uk/whats-new/how-to-optimise-linkedin-for-your-job-search.html]

Depending on your area of expertise, it can also be a good idea to create an online portfolio that showcases your previous accomplishments. There are a number of excellent free websites out there that can help you do this.

2. Network as much as possible

As the old saying goes, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know”, which is why networking can play huge a pivotal role when you are looking for a new job/career. This is especially true in the engineering and scientific sectors because they tend to be pretty tight-knit.

Look for relevant networking events in your local area and make it your goal to go along as regularly as possible. In addition, join industry-related communities online and become a part of the conversation on a frequent basis. You’ll not only meet people who could potentially open doors for you career-wise, but also assert yourself as a trusted adviser in your field.

3. Do your research

Before you jump straight in and start firing off your CV and cover letter to potential employers and recruitment companies, do your homework. There is so much readily accessible information out there on the Internet that it’s inexcusable to not know all that much about a company you’re considering applying for a job with.

Start by researching potential employers and making a shortlist of those you would like to work for. Now your reasons for shortlisting a company will inevitably vary, but consider factors such as:

With your shortlist created, conduct some more in-depth research into each of the companies on it to stand you in the best possible position should you be asked in for an interview.

4. Don’t be afraid to apply

Remember, the requirements listed in job descriptions are a wish list of what the company is looking for. Just because you haven’t got every single skill or the exact experience required, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply.

In fact, it’s a no-lose scenario for you. Worst case, you don’t hear anything back or get rejected right off the bat. Best case, you get given a chance. If you don’t apply, though, you’ll never know.

5. Reach out to specialist recruiters

Specialist tech recruitment companies (like us) are always looking out for high-quality candidates and love nothing more than to be able to match the best talent with exciting job opportunities. We are also among the first to know when a new job becomes available - sometimes even before they are advertised!

That’s why it’s a good idea to reach out and send companies like us your latest CV, portfolio site information, etc. Then, if an opportunity comes up that looks like a perfect match for both parties, we can help you secure that all-important interview.

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Contact us now to get registered and take the first step towards securing your dream technical role.

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