Linkedin and the Job Recruiter

LinkedIn Groups are an often underutilized tool that can be incredibly effective in a job search. By joining relevant groups, you gain direct access to recruiters and hiring managers, boost your visibility, and build credibility through thoughtful engagement. Here’s a guide on how to make the most of LinkedIn Groups to support your job search.

1. Join the Right Groups

While LinkedIn allows members to join up to 50 groups, most users only belong to a few. If you’re actively searching for a job, consider joining all 50 to maximize exposure. Look for groups related to your profession, industry, target employers, and geographic area, as well as any alumni or networking groups that may help you make meaningful connections. Joining is easy—simply click the “Join” button, and if the group requires approval, your membership request will be reviewed.

2. Engage and Communicate

LinkedIn Groups allow members to connect and message each other directly, even without a first-degree connection. Use this to your advantage by reaching out to recruiters or other professionals in your industry. Participate in group discussions, post relevant comments, and reply to others’ posts. This can showcase your expertise and make you more visible to people who may assist in your job search.

Additionally, the largest LinkedIn job search group, Job Openings, Job Leads and Job Connections, has nearly two million members, including many recruiters. By being active in this group, you increase your chances of catching the attention of recruiters who may be browsing for potential candidates.

3. Meet New Contacts

Groups provide a unique opportunity to “meet” people in your field virtually. Use the “Members” search feature in each group to find individuals with specific job titles or roles at your target companies. Comment thoughtfully on their posts and introduce yourself via private messages when appropriate. This can help you build a network of connections who share your professional interests.

4. Share Your Expertise

Showcase your knowledge by sharing articles, insights, and other valuable content with the group. Posting carefully curated, well-written content helps build your credibility and shows potential employers your communication skills and expertise. Remember that anything you post is visible to group members and, often, on your LinkedIn feed, so be mindful of the quality of your contributions.

5. Research Job Market Trends and Employers

LinkedIn Groups are valuable for more than just networking; they’re also an excellent source of industry information and insights. From job postings to the latest developments in your field, groups offer a variety of updates and news that can keep you informed. Additionally, groups provide insight into potential employers, giving you an insider perspective from current and past employees.

6. Keep Learning

Joining groups relevant to your field lets you stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and skills. Members frequently share new developments, articles, and educational resources, making it easy to continue learning. This ongoing education can help you stay competitive, especially if you’ve been away from the industry or are exploring a new career path.

7. Avoid Common Pitfalls

While LinkedIn Groups offer great benefits, there are some risks to avoid:

  • Manage Post Visibility: Posts in groups may also appear on your public LinkedIn feed. If you’re currently employed, consider adjusting group settings to prevent your job search activity from being visible to your employer.
  • Mind Your Tone and Professionalism: Avoid comments that may come across as unprofessional or overly critical, and always use correct grammar and spelling. These posts are often the first impression others have of your work, so professionalism is essential.
  • Follow Group Rules: Each LinkedIn Group has its own set of rules. Ignoring these can lead to moderation, where all your posts are subject to approval across LinkedIn, a status known as “SWAM” (site-wide automated moderation). Always review and respect each group’s guidelines, which you can access through the “i” icon on the group’s page.

Bottom Line

A fully complete LinkedIn Profile, including a professional headshot, is essential for maximizing your LinkedIn visibility. Engaging actively in LinkedIn Groups helps expand your network, making you more visible to others in search results. By using groups effectively, you’ll build connections and increase your chances of finding the right job opportunity on LinkedIn.

Bellevue Recruiter tells you how to answer a few tricky questions

What is your greatest accomplishment?”

Although the interviewer is asking you about your greatest accomplishment, you still have to choose one that is more professionally relevant. This is a good time to illustrate how you can contribute to the company if you are successfully recruited, so it will be to your advantage if you mention an achievement that applies to the position.

Let’s say you are applying for a position that requires a significant amount of problem solving and troubleshooting. You might want to talk about a time when you resolved a persistent problem that had plagued your company for years. You can explain how you initiated some research and made a useful suggestion that was eventually implemented to all departments. If possible, quantify your results in terms of savings made and increased productivity for instance.

Why did you apply for this position?”

Even if it’s true to a large extent, don’t give them the vibe that you applied for this job because you were retrenched from your previous company. Or for that matter, don’t give the impression that you are here because you need to make a living. Any company wants someone who is committed to the organization and eventually developed a sense of belonging with it. It doesn’t help claiming that you’re here for the monthly paycheck.

In fact, the best way to answer this question is to spend some time examining what you like or would like about your work and the company. It is likely you will find something, such as the culture, work environment, meaning of your work, etc. If you didn’t find anything, then you should seriously consider if this is the right job for you.

Once you know why you want this job, you can then answer them in a manner that’ll relate how well you fit with the position. For example, if you like the customer service work involved because you enjoy communicating with people, bring up that sociable personality of yours. Convince them that you’ll fit in very well here, and you’ll in turn convince the interviewer that you’ll be an asset to the company.

Why should I hire you?”

This is the part where you link your skills, experience, education and your personality to the job itself. This is why you need to be utterly familiar with the job description as well as the company culture. Remember though, it’s best to back them up with actual examples of say, how you are a good team player.

It is possible that you may not have as much skills, experience or qualifications as the other candidates. What then, will set you apart from the rest? Energy and passion might. People are attracted to someone who is charismatic, who show immense amount of energy when they talk, and who love what it is that they do. As you explain your compatibility with the job and company, be sure to portray yourself as that motivated, confident and energetic person, ever-ready to commit to the cause of the company.

Things to consider before accepting a job interview in Redmond

In reality every job interview is an opportunity but before you go down the path of saying yes to every interview that comes your way consider these three things.

1. Make sure you and the hiring manager are on the same page. 

It’s easy for information to be lost when it’s passed down from top management, so make sure you know exactly what you’ll be discussing. If you’re looking for a full-time job, confirm that it’s not a freelance position. If you have management experience, confirm that it’s not entry-level. The last thing you want is an expensive plane ticket that leads you nowhere.

2. Address any other concerns. 

If you’re clear on the position but still feel on-the-fence, you can buy yourself more time to think by asking questions. If you have salary requirements or are curious about the company’s parental leave policy, it’s totally OK to ask for that information upfront. This new data gives you an opportunity to reconsider—and if you do back out, it’s time saved on both ends, not just yours.

3. Finally, ask yourself, “Would I accept this job if they offered it to me?” 

So you’re clear on the title and parental leave policy is, like, 10 years down the road for you. Still, it’s a good idea go back and give the job description another good, hard read (because let’s be honest, it may have been weeks since you applied). Now that time has gone by and new opportunities have come down the pipeline, are you still interested? If you can no longer see yourself accepting the position, then there’s no reason to take the interview. Simply say your circumstances have changed and thank them for the consideration.

Insights for Seattle job search

Essential Job Search Tips for a More Effective Job Hunt

Getting organized with the right tools and strategies can help you save time and improve your job search. Here are some tips to streamline your approach and boost your chances of landing the job you want.

1. Create Your Own Templates

Prepare ready-to-edit templates for your resume and cover letter. This way, you can easily customize each application to match the job requirements without needing to rewrite the entire document. Keep the contact information and introductory and closing paragraphs consistent, while tailoring the main content to fit the position. Microsoft Word offers free downloadable templates for resumes, cover letters, and email messages, which can be personalized to fit your needs.

2. Review Sample Documents

Take inspiration from sample resumes, cover letters, and other job search materials. Reviewing samples can give you ideas for structure, tone, and phrasing, helping you create professional documents that highlight your skills and experience effectively.

3. Use Job Search Engines

Job search engines allow you to search across multiple major job boards, company websites, professional associations, and other job posting sites in a single step. Use advanced search options to filter for jobs that closely match your skills and preferences, which can save you time and yield better results.

4. Set Up Job Alerts

Let job listings come to you by signing up for job alerts. Many job boards offer search agents that will email you new postings based on your criteria. This way, you won’t miss out on potential opportunities, and you’ll receive job announcements directly to your inbox.

5. Save Time with Professional Help

If you’re short on time or unsure about how to improve your resume, consider seeking professional help for resume writing or editing. This can ensure that your resume is polished, properly formatted, and aligned with industry standards, making a strong first impression on potential employers.

6. Have References Ready

Prepare a list of three references that includes each person’s name, job title, company, phone number, and email address. Print a copy of this reference list to bring with you to interviews so you can provide it to hiring managers when requested.

7. Leverage Your Network

Remember that many job opportunities aren’t advertised publicly. Spread the word among friends, family, and professional contacts about your job search. They may know of openings or be able to offer referrals that can help you find positions through word-of-mouth.

8. Get Active on Social Media

Social networking platforms like Facebook and Twitter can help you discover job listings that haven’t yet been posted on traditional job boards. Additionally, promoting your candidacy on these platforms can expand your reach and visibility. Many companies now actively use social media for recruiting, so staying active on these channels can give you an advantage.

Following these tips can help you organize your job search efficiently, stay updated on new openings, and present yourself professionally to potential employers.

Searching for a job while employed?

Discreet Job Search Tips for Employed Professionals

Searching for a new job while you’re currently employed requires a bit of extra caution. Here are some tips to help you keep your search under wraps and avoid raising any suspicions with your current employer.

1. Make Job Search-Related Phone Calls Away from the Office

It’s essential to make all job search calls away from your workplace. Even if you’re using your own cell phone and data plan, there’s still a chance someone could overhear your conversation. Avoid making calls in places like the break room, where coworkers might walk in unexpectedly. Instead, head to your car, or find a quiet spot at a nearby coffee shop not frequented by colleagues.

2. Use Former Employers as References

If a prospective employer asks for a job reference, avoid involving your current boss to keep your job search confidential. Most employers understand this situation and will be satisfied with a reference from a previous supervisor. Having a few past managers or colleagues prepared to vouch for you can be just as effective without jeopardizing your current position.

3. Dress Appropriately for Work

If you usually dress casually, showing up in formal interview attire might raise some eyebrows. To avoid this, plan a quick wardrobe change before your interview. A coffee shop restroom or similar location can serve as a discreet spot to switch from casual to professional attire. This way, you can attend an interview without raising suspicions at the office.

Following these steps can help you maintain your current job while exploring new opportunities, keeping your job search as private and professional as possible.

12 changes to make your resume easy to read

12 Tips to Make Your Resume Easy to Read and Visually Appealing

When recruiters review resumes, they often skim for key details. Using a clean, readable format increases the chances that they’ll notice your most relevant skills and experience. Here are some formatting tips to ensure your resume stands out and makes an impact.

1. Align All Text to the Left

Left-aligned text improves readability, as the eye naturally returns to the left margin when moving to the next line. Avoid centering any text, including section headings, to create a more organized, professional look.

2. Right-Align Dates and Locations

Separate the company name, job title, location, and employment dates by aligning dates and locations to the right. This approach keeps your information organized and allows recruiters to easily spot your employment timeline. Most word processors allow you to set up a right-tab to make this adjustment.

3. Skip Justified Alignment

Justified text can create uneven spaces between words, which may hurt readability. Stick with left alignment for your bullets and text to maintain a neat, easy-to-read layout.

4. Use a Uniform Font Size

Except for your name, which can be slightly larger, keep the font size consistent throughout your resume. Instead of using different font sizes for emphasis, try bolding, italicizing, or using all-caps sparingly to highlight important elements.

5. Choose Either Roles or Companies to Bold

Bolding certain information helps with skimming, but avoid overdoing it. Choose to bold either your job titles or company names based on what you want to emphasize. If your job progression tells a story, bold the titles; if your experience is mostly internships, bolding company names may be more effective.

6. Use ALL-CAPS Sparingly

All-caps can help draw attention to key sections like headers, but it’s harder to read in large amounts. Reserve this for headings or your name to ensure readability.

7. Lead with Strong Words in Bullets

Recruiters often skim the first few words of bullet points before deciding to read further. Start each bullet with impactful, concise language to capture attention immediately. Action verbs like “Led,” “Managed,” or “Developed” can help make a strong impression.

8. Keep Bullet Points Under Two Lines

Aim to keep your bullet points short and to the point. Two lines per bullet is ideal; this way, each point remains digestible and easy to skim.

9. Use Numerals for Numbers

Quantify your achievements to give context to your impact, and use digits instead of words (e.g., “30%” instead of “thirty percent”). This approach saves space and improves readability.

10. Include a Dedicated “Skills” Section

Listing all relevant skills in one section ensures they won’t be overlooked. Highlighting skills both here and within job descriptions gives recruiters a clear view of your abilities.

11. Maintain Consistent Formatting

If you’re using creative ways to fit information onto a single page, be sure formatting stays consistent across sections. This makes skimming easier and helps recruiters quickly locate details they may want to review.

12. Leave Some White Space

White space, or empty space on your resume, enhances readability by providing visual breaks between sections. It signals transitions and helps important areas, like your name and skills, stand out.

By following these formatting tips, you’ll create a resume that’s both easy to read and visually appealing, increasing your chances of making a strong impression on recruiters.

Sending your resume via email? Read this…

When sending your resume to potential employers or recruitment agencies it’s important that you pay attention to the style and tone of your email. Besides, this is their first impression of you so your email etiquette MUST be right if you want to be successful!

  1. Remember that applying for a job is a formal process and your manners should be formal. ‘Hiya’ or equivalent is not the way to address your email. Use the individual’s name if known, ‘Dear Jane’ or ‘Dear Jane Brown’. If you do not have their name, use ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ or ‘Dear Recruitment Manager’ or equivalent. If you write ‘Dear Sir’ when you do not know who will be opening your email, then you run the risk of offending any female who receives your email and vice versa.
  2. In your covering email, write in full sentences, but use bullet points to emphasise any key points.
  3. Never use text-speak as you would on your mobile.
  4. End the message formally, e.g. ‘I look forward to hearing from you’ rather than a ‘Thx!’ type ending.
  5. Always check and double-check the spelling in the main body of your email and any attachments. Spelling mistakes mean landing on the reject pile 99.9% of the time. Remember the spell-checker won’t pick up every spelling or grammatical error so proof read it yourself.
  6. When sending your resume as an attachment, always label the attachment with your full name and reference number or date to keep track of the version you have sent.
  7. Don’t use your work email address. Set up a private email address specifically for job-hunting which includes your name. You can obtain free email addresses from Hotmail, Google and Yahoo among others.
    • Be aware that employers are likely to monitor the email and internet use of their employees on their work computers so if you use work facilities or work time to apply for jobs then be prepared to explain why to your boss.
  8. Exercise caution in sending out your personal details. Is this a company that you know or who you can verify independently? If you are unsure, take a look on the web and see if you can find out anything about the company before sending out your confidential information.
  9. Add a read receipt to your email to make sure your CV has reached the recipient. Or call the employer directly if you have their phone number to make sure they have received it.

Are you an Obvious Fit? Redmond Job Seeker

Make Yourself a “Smack-in-the-Forehead” Obvious Fit

When you apply for a job via an online application process, it’s very likely that your resume will first be screened by an applicant tracking system and then (assuming you make this first cut) move onto human eyeballs. The first human eyeballs that review your resume are often those of a lower level HR person or recruiter, who may or may not understand all of the nuances of that job for which you’re applying.

Thus, it behooves you to make it very simple for both the computer and the human to quickly connect their “Here’s what we’re looking for” to your “Here’s what you can walk through our doors and deliver.”

Tip

Study the job description and any available information you have on the position. Are you mirroring the words and phrases in the job description? Are you showcasing your strengths in the areas that seem to be of paramount importance to this role? Line it up. Line it up.

5 Tips for a Successful Online Job Search

Effective Job Search Strategies Beyond Online Applications

Before the internet, job seekers often relied on classified ads in newspapers to find job openings. Today, job boards like Monster, Indeed, and SimplyHired make it easy to search and apply to dozens of jobs with just a few clicks. While convenient, applying exclusively through online job postings can be limiting and lead to a lengthy and frustrating job search with lower chances of success.

Consider this scenario: A job seeker recently shared that he’d applied to over 80 jobs on Indeed over several months, selecting only roles he felt were a good match. When asked about his results, he replied, “Nada. Zilch. Zero… not a single interview.” Unfortunately, this experience is common, as many job seekers don’t realize how intense the competition is for online job postings. Each online listing can receive hundreds of applications, and only a few candidates make it to an interview.

So, what can you do to improve your chances of landing a job? Here are some targeted strategies that often yield better results than simply applying en masse through job boards.

1. Build and Leverage Your Network

Networking, both in-person and online, is one of the most effective ways to find job opportunities. Attend networking events, join professional organizations, and practice the art of conversation. Every new connection you make expands your network and increases your chances of learning about job openings that aren’t advertised. Building a strong network can also lead to valuable referrals.

2. Focus Your Applications

Rather than applying to dozens of jobs, concentrate on positions where your skills and experience truly align with the employer’s needs. Avoid “Hail Mary” applications to roles you’re not well-suited for, as these are unlikely to result in interviews. Instead, focus on positions where you can demonstrate specific value to the employer.

3. Research Each Company Before Applying

Before applying, take time to research the company thoroughly. Check the latest company news, visit its website, and explore its LinkedIn profile to understand its goals and challenges. Use this information to craft a cover letter that shows how your skills and experience can help the company address its needs. A tailored approach shows employers that you’re genuinely interested and well-prepared.

4. Network Your Way In

Instead of applying cold, see if you can connect with someone inside the company beforehand. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for finding people who work at your target companies. Reach out to employees for informational interviews—not to ask for favors, but to learn about the company and build a relationship. This proactive approach often leaves a positive impression, and in some cases, they may offer to help when an opportunity arises.

5. Inquire About Employee Referral Programs

If you establish a connection within the company, find out if they have an employee referral program. Many companies value referrals, and employees are often rewarded for referring strong candidates. If they’re open to it, ask if they would be willing to submit your resume on your behalf. However, keep in mind that most companies won’t allow the referral if you’ve already applied, as the employee won’t get credit.

The Bottom Line: Quality Over Quantity

Remember the story of the tortoise and the hare—slow and steady wins the race. A job search focused on fewer applications, backed by thorough research, networking, and strategic communication, can yield much better results than mass applications. Though it may feel tedious, taking time to build relationships and present a targeted case for each job will ultimately improve your chances of landing a fulfilling position.

Stay Connected while working remotely

15 Tips to Stay Visible While Working from Home

Working remotely offers flexibility but can make it challenging to stay visible and relevant within your team. Here are practical ways to maintain your presence and ensure your contributions don’t go unnoticed when you’re not in the office.

1. Check In Regularly

Without the opportunity for impromptu chats in the office, frequent check-ins with your team are essential. Keep communication lines open to stay on everyone’s radar.

2. Share Updates Often

To ensure your role and achievements stay visible, make an effort to share updates frequently. Whether you’ve landed a new client or hit a project milestone, keeping your team informed helps highlight your ongoing contributions.

3. Know When Your Team is Most Active

Every workplace has its peak productivity hours. Determine when your team is most active, and make sure you’re available and responsive during that time.

4. Set a Dedicated Time for Emails and Calls

Maintaining a structured schedule for communication can help you stay organized and reduce distractions, ensuring timely responses and consistent availability.

5. Connect on Social Media

Adding coworkers on social media, particularly LinkedIn or other professional platforms, can help build rapport. Engage by liking, commenting, and celebrating work-related posts to show support and stay connected.

6. Make the Occasional Phone Call

Sometimes, a direct phone call can be the most efficient way to resolve issues or clarify details. Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone when a quick conversation is needed.

7. Set Up Video Conferencing

Having reliable video conferencing tools, like Zoom, enables more personal connections. Use video calls for team meetings or check-ins to help keep relationships strong.

8. Attend In-Person Company Events

If you’re local, try to attend important team meetings, annual gatherings, or holiday parties in person. These events can strengthen your presence and help you stay engaged with your team.

9. Join Virtual Lunches or Coffee Breaks

Many teams hold virtual hangouts or coffee breaks to simulate office camaraderie. Joining these informal gatherings allows you to stay connected in a more relaxed setting.

10. Volunteer for Projects

Take the initiative by volunteering for new projects or team tasks. Proactively offering your help not only demonstrates commitment but also keeps you involved in key activities.

11. Share Wins and Challenges

Communicate both your accomplishments and the hurdles you’re facing. This openness shows accountability and allows your team to better understand your work.

12. Be Mindful of Communication Tone

Without in-person interactions, the tone of your messages becomes even more important. Stay positive, clear, and concise to avoid misunderstandings.

13. Send Out a Weekly Update

A brief, end-of-week summary of your progress and key achievements helps reinforce your contributions and keeps everyone informed on your work status.

14. Offer to Train or Mentor

If you have skills or knowledge to share, offering training sessions or mentorship can increase your visibility as a valuable resource within the company.

15. Recognize and Celebrate Others

Acknowledging your colleagues’ achievements fosters goodwill and strengthens team bonds. A simple congratulatory message for their successes shows that you’re engaged and supportive.

By following these tips, you can stay visible, build stronger relationships with your colleagues, and ensure your contributions are recognized, even from a distance.