How To Get a Job in 30 Days or Less

If you clicked on this post chances are you’re looking for a new job. Whether you’re unemployed or simply looking for change, the tips I’m about to share have been helpful for me and I hope can lead you to signing some “new employee” paperwork in a month’s time.

Know what type of job you want…

Do you want to work in the food service industry and ultimately become a restaurant manager? Well maybe working in a fast food restaurant can help you attain that goal. But if you want to work in the fashion industry, don’t waste time flipping burgers. It will do nothing to help you. A retail store or simple search for the word “fashion” on a job board. During my last year of high school, I worked at Jamba Juice and Cold Stone Creamery and I chose to apply to these places because I really love smoothies and ice cream. Yes, the primary reason I needed a job was to earn my own money, but I chose places that I frequented and enjoyed going to as a patron. If a job serves no purpose other than paying your bills, you probably shouldn’t work there. If it does not benefit you and your plans for the future, don’t bother applying.

Search for the perfect job.

Long gone are the days of reading the paper for “help wanted” ads. You can find the perfect job from your phone and/or computer. Indeed.com will always be my favorite site to search because it enables you to type in key words and select the exact area you’d like to search for jobs in. It also has a phone application so that you can see soo new jobs as soon as they post. There’s also Craigslist, Monster, SimplyHired, and several other sites you can use.

Tailor your resume and cover letter(s).

Almost every time you apply for a job, you should be submitting a different resume and/or cover letter. Your objective should list the exact job title you’re applying for and your cover letter should list the hiring manager’s name. This shows that you are not only interested in the job, but willing to invest time and do research to get it. If the job posting requests that a candidate have certain skills and you have them, make sure your cover letter and resume showcase these skills.

Don’t settle, take some initiative. 

If you’ve applied to several places but can’t seem to get a call back, that doesn’t mean apply to more random places. Don’t be too afraid to call your potential employer and let them know you’re still interested. I remember I got a part-time job at The Body Shop by doing that. I called and asked to speak with a manager to see if the position was still open. Once he replied yes, I told him I believed I was the perfect person for the job since I loved their products and was obsessed with beauty products. He laughed, but invited me to interview with him that same day. I worked there for several months and loved it. If I hadn’t made that call, who knows what would’ve happened?

Prepare for your interview. 

Once you’ve gotten the call back and the employer invites you in for an interview, it’s time to make all that hard work from the application process pay off. Research the position thoroughly and practice your responses to common interview questions. It’s almost guaranteed that you will be asked why you’re the ideal candidate for the position so why not have an amazing response planned out? You won’t sound like you’re reading a script and your plans will just serve as talking points. Do your best to relate jobs or accomplishments you’ve had in the past to the position you’re interviewing for. Read the company’s website for the latest news any be prepared to answer questions about it.

Dress the part.

Lastly, make sure you have the perfect interview outfit. Gray, black, navy blue, and white are usually great options for a professional color scheme. In some places it’s OK to wear brighter colors, just be aware of the company’s culture and that can help guide your outfit selection. Steer clear of prints and try sticking to solid colors for the interview. When you look your best, you feel confident and a confident person can get the job of their dreams!

---

In case you’re one of those people who need a step-by-step guide to getting a job, check out the weekly plan I’ve created down below:

Week 1

• Complete job search
• Edit and revise resume and cover letter (have someone else proofread, send to a professional to get feedback if you need to)
• Apply for jobs

Week 2

• Follow up and make phone calls or send emails inquiring about whether the position has been filled yet
• If jobs have been filled, ask the employer to keep you in mind for future openings
• Apply for similar positions and repeat what was done the week prior

Week 3

• Prepare for interviews by researching the position and company
• If you haven’t had much luck, consider applying with a temp agency
• Schedule interview(s) (if you get more than one interview, try scheduling them on the same day)
• Print out copies of your resume on resume paper

Week 4

• Prepare your outfit(s) for interviews
• Arrive early for interviews and bring copies of your resume
• Do your best and remain confident
• Get the job

I hope this helps you and if there’s a tip you feel like I’m leaving out, feel free to post it in the comments section.

 Alex