How to Take Charge of Your Job Search

Applying to jobs online can feel like sending your resume into a black hole. You spend hours perfecting your application, only to get silence—or the dreaded “Thanks, but no thanks.” The truth? Job boards and online postings aren’t the most effective way to land your dream role. It’s time to shift gears. Taking action—through networking, outreach, and personal branding—sets you apart from the crowd and put you in control of your job search.

Why Passive Job Searching Isn’t Enough

Sure, online applications are convenient, but they’re also highly competitive. According to some estimates, as many as 75% of roles are filled through networking and connections, not job postings. When you rely solely on online applications, you’re competing with hundreds (let's be real, thousands) of others. The key to standing out? Stop waiting for opportunities to find you—go out and create them.

Take Action in Your Job Search

1. Reach Out Directly. Don’t wait for job postings to connect with professionals in your target industry or company. Send personalized messages, request informational interviews, and ask thoughtful questions to learn more about their work. These conversations not only give you insider insights but also help you build relationships that could lead to referrals or hidden opportunities.

   
   

   Takeaway: Aim to reach out to at least three professionals a week. Use LinkedIn or your alumni network as starting points.

   
   
   

   

   
   
   

2. Attend Events and Get Involved. Networking events, webinars, conferences, and industry meetups are goldmines for connections. Even virtual events can help you engage with decision-makers and learn about new opportunities. Don’t underestimate the power of showing up and being present in spaces where your ideal employers are active.

   
   

   Takeaway: Set a goal to attend one event this month, whether in person or online. Prepare a quick elevator pitch to introduce yourself confidently.

   
   

3. Showcase Your Skills Through Personal Branding. Action isn’t just about who you know—it’s also about how you’re perceived. Use LinkedIn, a personal website, or even a blog to showcase your skills and ideas. Share posts about industry trends, highlight your accomplishments, or publish a portfolio of your work. A strong personal brand makes you memorable and demonstrates your expertise.

   
   

   Takeaway: Update your LinkedIn profile to include a compelling headline and a summary that reflects your skills and goals. Share one relevant post or article this week.

Why Action Beats Writing Every Time

When you actively engage in your job search, you’re no longer just a name in a pile of resumes. You’re a person with a story, a voice, and a presence. Taking action also helps you uncover the hidden job market—roles that aren’t advertised but are available to those who network strategically.

For example, reaching out to a hiring manager directly could spark a conversation that leads to an interview, even if a role hasn’t been posted yet. That’s the power of initiative.

Don’t let your job search be a passive exercise in hitting “submit.” By reaching out, attending events, and building your brand, you can take control of your career path. Action trumps everything—so start today and watch the opportunities roll in.

Ready to take action? Choose one strategy above and commit to it this week. Your future self will thank you!