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Response-based Job Searches

How you approach your job search depends on the purpose for your search. What are your goals? Are you looking for advancement? Have you been laid off and timing is a factor? Are you a career changer looking for that first crossover job? Your strategy will likely combine both response-based and proactive job search approaches.

Response-based Job Search

  • Focus on applying to jobs that have been publicly posted
  • Advantages:
    • The openings are current
  • Disadvantages:
    • You lack insight information about the company or position
    • It is difficult to stand out from the competition if you have no connections within the organization.
  • Get Started:
    • Find a job opening
    • Use your network and background research to understand the employer’s problems and how you can solve them
    • Use your network to see if you can find someone within the organization who can refer you
    • Use your findings to create a TARGETED resume and cover letter