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Did you know there are tools in your job-search toolbox other than your resumes and cover letters? In this edition, we'll address five you might not be aware of.
LinkedIn QR Codes
Let's start with the LinkedIn QR code. This is a great way to share your LinkedIn profile at networking events or even job fairs. As you're ending a conversation with a networking companion, ask them if they would like to connect with you on LinkedIn. Open your app, click in the search area, click on the four-square box to the right, and voilà your QR code appears. Then your companion can capture it with their smartphone camera and view your LinkedIn profile. This will show that you're tech-savvy and most likely impress your networking buddy.
STAR Stories
The second tool we find cool is STAR stories which you can write on color-coded note cards. Buy the large ones. This involves writing (yes writing, not typing) your accomplishments using the STAR format. S stands for the situation you faced at work. T is your task in that situation. A, the actions you took to solve the situation. And R, the positive result/s from your actions. These STAR stories are great to store by your computer, carry in your purse, or keep by your bedside. You can refer to them every once in a while to remind you of your greatness.
Telephone
Number three on our list is your phone. My phone? you are wondering. Yes, your phone is a job-search tool because it is one place you can store your resume. Not in your sent queue, but in a folder like Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud, and others. Consider this scenario: you're hundreds of miles away from your computer, and a recruiter or hiring manager wants your resume. Having your resume stored in your phone allows you to send it to them. Problem avoided.
ChatGPT
The fourth tool we think is nifty to have in your job-search toolbox is ChatGPT. Before we go any further, it's important to know that Chat shouldn't be used without your input. In other words, don't ask it to write a resume and then send it to an employer unedited. You'll have to read what Chat produces and make the appropriate edits. The same applies to cover letters and any other documents you're sending to employers. Other ways Chat can be useful are: producing interview questions based on a job ad, devising a list of target companies based on one of your favorite ones, recommend jobs based on your skills, and write an elevator pitch for you.
Networking Document
Last but not least is your networking document. It is one page long. On the top of the page is the meat of your resume: contact info, Headline, essential skills, Work Experience with outstanding accomplishments, and Education. Try to quantify your accomplishment statements with number, dollars, and percentages. On the bottom half you will list your desired titles and industries. Following these are your company types, such as mid-size, nonprofit, entrepreneurial, etc. Finally, are 15-20 of your target companies. This is something you can email to your network and share at informational meetings.
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