Naked CIO: Job searching tips

Looking for work? Here's how the Naked CIO is conducting the search - and how you can improve yours too.

As I embark on my new job hunt (having just lost my job), the first question I ask myself is: where to begin?

There are plenty of options and not all of these in my experience are good uses of my time. Online job boards tend to be the easiest and you can apply for many jobs in a short period of time.

However, in my experience looking for jobs through online postings is a low percentage game and one that is probably not the best use of your time if you are seriously looking.

On the job hunt?
Make sure you check out this content before you start

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4. Techies: Should you be job-hunting this January?

Talking with headhunters and recruiters is a good place to start. If you know any of them personally, or have been through 'the process' with an agency, reconnect with these contacts. They may not have anything now but once they know you are looking, they will keep you in mind if a position comes up that suits your skills and personality.

It's unlikely headhunters will find you a new job right away - especially in a marketplace where they have more CVs than job openings - but it's still worth reaching out.

By far the best method for finding a new position is through those who know you and know what you have done - those you have worked alongside of in your career. Tap these contacts and don't be too proud to ask them for help. They may know someone or something that could lead to your next opportunity. These are people who can speak about you not as a piece of paper with some credentials but as a person. This is extremely important because jobs are given to people, not CVs.

In a tight job market the saying 'it isn't what you know it's who you know' really does apply. Networking generally holds the highest probability for finding and landing opportunities quickly. This is especially true if you are friends or previous colleagues with an influencer - someone who is highly regarded and who knows a lot of people.

If you try the online search method, ensure you are organised.

First have someone you trust review you CV and cover letter to see if they are effective. Do they promote your strengths enough to generate interest?

Next, pick a particular job and write a cover letter explaining why this opportunity is of interest to you. You need to find a way for you and your credentials to stand out. Remember, you will be applying for this opportunity with thousands of others, so what makes you one of the few that should make it beyond the standard 'Thank you for your interest but on this occasion we have identified others who better meet what our client is looking for' email response?

Also look for specialised sites and companies that deal with your areas of interest and expertise. They will be better suited to understanding your specific qualifications and will likely act on them more quickly. There are some pay-for sites for top-end jobs that can be more useful as they generally weed out some of the garbage applicants and offer only the elite, high-paying positions.

You should block out two hours of each day to concentrate on your job search. Be methodical and keep a tally of jobs that really interest you. Follow up directly with recruiters if you have their information and reinforce your interest in any and future opportunities.

The final piece of advice I have is good luck - after all luck in today's environment doesn't hurt one bit.