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As the new year starts, many of us start thinking about our resolutions, both personal and professional, to make 2022 the best year it can be. Here are some picks for how to rethink your job search strategy for 2022.

Research New Companies

During a stressful job search, it can be tempting to simply accept the first job that is offered. However, according to CNN, there are a record high number of job openings. With more jobs than ever to choose from, job seekers have more leverage than ever before when it comes to finding a new position. Keeping this in mind, before you apply to a job, it may be worthwhile to do some research on companies that you want to work for, rather than just taking the first job that comes along.

If you find yourself in a position where there are multiple options available, take some time to evaluate your options and choose which makes the most sense for you in terms of wages, work-life balance and more.

Learn a New Skill

Upskilling was one of the biggest trends of the last several months – taking time to earn certifications or develop stronger interpersonal skills that can help job seekers become more competitive candidates. There is no downside to learning a new skill, and it can help open up more doors into different roles and industries that may have not been within reach before. You can either take formal courses or simply take time on your own to improve skills like computer literacy, effective communication, and more. Services like the YWCA Saskatoon Employment and Learning Centre can help you with the options of changing directions.

Explore a Different Industry

There are a number of industries that are experiencing extreme labor shortages, including the skilled trades, warehousing and manufacturing. If you have been toying with the idea of entering a new industry, now is the time! Not only will these industries be hiring in large volumes over the coming months, but they are likely to be offering attractive wages and benefits in order to attract and retain new workers.

Highlight Your Interpersonal Skills

Corresponding with a heightened demand for workers in specific industries, more and more employers will be evaluating candidates based on their interpersonal skills just as much as their technical experience. In fact, a recent study found that a whopping 93% of employers felt that soft skills were essential in new employees. What this means is regardless of whether or not a candidate has directly related work experience to the job in question, their soft skills like communication, problem-solving, attention to detail and teamwork can be just as useful in helping them secure a new job.

Take some time to think what your strengths are and be sure to emphasize them when connecting with potential employers, because they very well could be your ticket to a new position.

Work With an Agency

Sometimes, searching for a job alone can be stressful and time-consuming. If you are struggling to secure a position that you love on your own, an agency can provide a world of support and insight into helping you land a new job. Collaborating with an organization like the YWCA Saskatoon Employment and Learning Centre can give direction to your job search and reduce the time it takes to find work. Having access to their wide networks of employers, as well as gaining insight towards resume writing and interview preparation, means you will be better positioned to get noticed by employers.

Information on our job search programs at the YWCA Employment and Learning Centre can be found at: Employment & Learning

This article was adapted by Robert Francos. You can view the full original article by JHewitt of Select Staff at: https://www.select-staff.com/2021/09/16/rethinking-your-job-search-strategy-for-2022/