The secrets revealed: How to make the most of your job search

Nearly half of Australian job seekers say the process of hunting for a new job is complicated. 

Further SEEK data found more than half of those searching for a new job felt daunted by the job hunt process. 

They said the biggest challenge was assessing whether a job was the right fit, with 34 per cent of people looking for a job identifying it as the most time-intensive part of the search process. 

Being armed with the most effective search techniques can help eliminate a lot of uncertainty and time wastage. 

These simple tips will help job seekers find what they are looking for without the hassle. 

Online profiles 

The average applications per job ad increased for the fifth consecutive month, rising 4.4 per cent from May to June SEEK data shows, which demonstrates steady competition in the job market.

A strong online presence is a great way for job hunters to stand out from the crowd.

Do this by updating your online profile, highlighting talents, experience and skills. 

“Work out what sets you apart, and ensure these traits are shown where they count,” said Suzanne Robertson, SEEK’s head of candidate marketing. 

“Whether it’s communication skills, technical ability or highly specific experience, emphasise them throughout your profile and resume.” 

Narrow down job searches with online filters. Photo: Getty

Search tools are your friend 

Candidates can find suitable roles sooner by narrowing down their searches and this can be done online with filtering tools.  

Nominate a salary range with SEEK’s salary filter so that only results within that range can be seen. 

“We know that salary is often a key decision-making factor when looking for a new job, so it’s definitely important to look for jobs with the salary you’re looking for to get the most relevant results,” Ms Robertson said. 

“For example, SEEK’s salary filter allows you to specify a salary range as part of your job search and only see results within that range and it’s super useful because that’s even if an employer has chosen not to display the job’s salary in their ad. 

“And to further increase the relevancy of the job search results, salaries can be filtered by either an annual or hourly rate.” 

Filters can also be set by location and work type, such as full time, part time or casual. 

Tailor your job alerts 

Candidates can also sign up to have customised search alerts on SEEK, which means they don’t miss out on suitable opportunities. 

“Having jobs that match your search criteria appear in your inbox on a daily basis will ensure that you don’t miss out on suitable opportunities,” Ms Robertson said. 

“When you’re signed in on SEEK, you can also track and manage all of the jobs you’ve saved and applied for, plus your previous searches and recommended jobs”. 

Explore SEEK and find better job matches than ever before. 

Source: Independent research conducted on behalf of SEEK, surveying 2000 Australians