If you've ever been on the job hunt, you know it can often feel like a full-time job without the pay. You may even be tempted to take breaks if the search is leaving you empty handed.

But don't stop now!

Recruitment often takes a pause around Thanksgiving and Christmas in the U.S., so now is the time to go hard with your job search before the holiday bells start ringing! Your proactive approach during this window of time could be the key to landing that dream job.

Before the festivities begin, harness the momentum of the year-end push with seven game-changing tips tailored to you as you navigate the U.S. job market.

1. Resumé Reinvention:​
‘Tis the season to deck your resume with career service expertise! Stop by your college or university’s career services to fine-tune your resumé’s format, wording, and keyword density. Ensure it’s a gem that catches the eyes of recruiters. Need a quick check? Try Resumeworde for instant feedback.
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2. Social Media Sleuthing for Target Companies:​
In the realm of job hunting, early birds catch the worms. Start your day with a cup of chai and a deep dive into your target companies’ online presence. Leverage tools like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Seekout to explore company culture, industry trends, and key players. Stay informed and stand out with timely insights.
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3. Mastering Mock Interviews:​
Unlock the secret to acing interviews by practicing with the pros. Utilize free career services at your college or university and tap into on-campus and off-campus mentorship programs. For international students, acclimating to the American interview style is crucial. Explore InterviewBuddy for simulated interview experiences or even practice with an American friend, ensuring you’re poised and confident in the spotlight.
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4. LinkedIn SEO:​
Bring the recruiters to you! Transform your LinkedIn profile into a magnetic force by optimizing it for SEO with tools like Jobscan to match your skills with job descriptions.
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5. Engagement is the Name of the Game:​
Stay active and engaged with your network on LinkedIn by posting your journey, experiences, and insights. Your profile is your personal brand, so let it shine in the professional realm. Sharing consistently not only showcases your personality but also enhances your visibility. Discover the power of Buffer for scheduling posts, ensuring a consistent and engaging online presence for FREE!
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6. Showcase your Personality:​
In a sea of resumes, how can you stand out? Showcase your uniqueness through creativity. Build a personal website using platforms like Wix, or make engaging videos highlighting your expertise on YouTube to share your portfolio, projects, and a touch of your personality. Differentiate yourself and make the recruiter’s job easy – you’re the one they’ve been searching for.
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7. Network, Network, Network:​
Make networking your weekly ritual. Attend at least one networking event per week. Platforms like Meetup or Eventbrite are treasure troves for professional gatherings. As the holidays approach, connections made now could pave the way for opportunities in the new year.

Instead of slowing down, transform this season into a springboard for success. The job market awaits your unique perspective, skills, and personality. Happy hunting!

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Cheers ☕