10 Best Tips for Finding a New Job
By
Samantha Cox
•
May 1, 2025
Looking for a new job can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be. In this article, we’ll share practical tips and proven strategies to help make your job search more effective and less stressful. Whether it’s tapping into your network or using job boards, you’ll find everything you need to secure your next role.
Key Takeaways
Networking is key—about 70% of job seekers find positions through connections and referrals.
Utilize job boards and company career websites to access a wide array of job listings tailored to your skills.
Stay organized by tracking your applications, which can help improve your job search efficiency.
1. Leverage Your Network
Networking is a powerful tool that can significantly boost your job search efforts. Did you know that around 70% of job seekers find positions through their networking efforts? This is because networking can help uncover job opportunities that are not publicly advertised. Connecting with people in your industry provides valuable insights and referrals, boosting your chances of landing an interview.
Referrals are particularly powerful as they can add credibility to your application and sometimes bypass traditional hiring processes. Having someone within the company vouch for you can fast-track your application and provide you with insights into the company’s culture and expectations.
2. Utilize Job Boards and Career Websites
Job boards like Monster, Google for Jobs, and Indeed help you find opportunities, but they don’t always give you the edge you need to stand out. Specialized sites like Dice or ArtsThread focus on specific industries, but finding the right job can still be tough.
That’s where Fonzi comes in. Unlike traditional boards, Fonzi uses AI to match you with the best jobs, automatically evaluating your fit and connecting you with top employers faster. Fonzi makes job searching smarter, saving you time and helping you focus on roles that align with your career goals. Plus, with Fonzi’s transparent, efficient system, you’re not just listed—you’re set up for success.
3. Seek Referrals
Seeking referrals is another effective strategy to expedite your job search. Asking a valued friend in your field for a referral can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. Many companies offer incentives for referring candidates, so your connections might be more than willing to help. Referrals can help you bypass the initial screening process, getting you one step closer to landing an interview.
Encourage your connections to keep an eye out for job openings and to share your resume with potential employers. This can increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters and hiring managers. Referrals not only provide a personal touch to your application but also demonstrate your initiative and resourcefulness in your job search.
4. Attend Job Fairs
Job fairs are excellent opportunities to meet potential employers face-to-face and make a lasting impression. These events are typically focused on specific industries or general recruitment, offering a unique chance to meet a diverse range of job seekers, from recent graduates to seasoned professionals. Be sure to bring plenty of resumes and business cards to share with recruiters.
Treat conversations with recruiters at job fairs as mini-interviews. This allows you to showcase your communication skills and enthusiasm directly. Networking opportunities at job fairs can also lead to potential collaborations beyond just hiring. Dress professionally, prepare to discuss your qualifications, and maximize these direct interactions to find a new job.
5. Explore Company Websites
Checking company websites regularly is a smart way to stay on top of job openings. Many companies have dedicated career pages where they post their latest job listings, and some even offer mobile-friendly sites, making it easy to browse and apply from your phone or tablet. This is especially helpful if you’re busy and want to quickly apply to new jobs as they become available.
A well-designed career page makes it easier to apply, so take time to explore the job descriptions of companies you're interested in. Applying directly through their site increases your chances of getting noticed. Be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight the hard skills listed in the posting. Updated job listings also reflect a company’s professionalism, and applying through official channels shows you’re serious about the role and ready to make a strong first impression.
6. Approach Headhunters and Recruiters
Headhunters and recruitment agencies can be powerful allies in your search for a new job. They help streamline job hunting by connecting you with high-level or specialized roles that may not appear in public job postings. Many companies rely on headhunters when they need to fill positions quickly or can’t manage the hiring internally.
A good recruiter will take time to understand your resume, cover letter, and overall qualifications, often providing insight into salary expectations and role fit. They also have access to networks of candidates and employers, giving you a leg up on opportunities that aren’t widely advertised.
7. Consider Temping or Internships
Temporary positions and internships can be smart stepping stones when you're job hunting or working toward a new job. These roles offer hands-on experience and give you a chance to contact potential employers, build your network, and show what you can do.
Many recruitment agencies help with finding a new job through temp or casual roles, and schools often connect recent grads with internships to kick-start their careers. By proving your skills and work ethic, you may even turn a short-term role into a full-time opportunity.
8. Use Creative Job Search Strategies
In today’s job market, standing out requires more than a traditional resume. Job seekers are getting creative with personal websites to showcase their resumes and portfolios, video resumes to highlight personality, and infographics to visually present their skills.
While creative tactics can help you stand out, landing the right job still takes time. That’s where Fonzi comes in. Fonzi uses AI to match your resume with jobs that fit your skills, helping you skip the endless scrolling and get closer to your next interview faster than traditional job sites.
9. Track Your Applications
Finding a new job can feel overwhelming, but staying organized is one of the most effective ways to streamline your search and increase your chances of success. Keeping track of your job applications, deadlines, and contact information helps you stay proactive and ensures you don’t miss any important steps along the way.
Here are a few tips to stay organized while finding a new job:
Track Applications: Keep a detailed list of jobs you’ve applied to, including application dates and deadlines.
Monitor Interviews: Stay on top of scheduled interviews and any follow-up actions required.
Organize Contact Info: Record the hiring managers or recruiters you’ve connected with, along with their contact details.
Set Reminders: Use reminders or task management tools to keep track of important follow-ups and dates.
Platforms like Fonzi simplify your job search by automating key tasks in the recruitment process. Fonzi helps you stay organized by tracking applications, managing interviews, and collecting feedback. It’s one of the smartest resources out there for job seekers looking to connect with top organizations and career programs that align with their goals.
10. Know When It's Time to Start Job Hunting
Recognizing when it’s time to search for a new job is a key step toward career growth and personal satisfaction. If you’re feeling stuck, it might be time to explore new opportunities. Here are some signs that it’s time to start a job search:
Stagnant Role: If you’ve been in the same position for a while without room for growth or new responsibilities, it could be a sign to look elsewhere.
Financial Concerns: If the company is struggling financially or layoffs are frequent, it might be a good time to consider your options for more stability and better pay.
Toxic Work Environment: A negative or uncomfortable workplace can take a toll on your well-being. If things aren’t improving, a change may be necessary for your mental and physical health.
Lack of Motivation: Consistently feeling bored or unmotivated at work could indicate that you're no longer passionate about your role.
Desire for More Money and Better Benefits: If you’re not getting paid what you deserve or lacking benefits like health care, it might be time to research opportunities that offer better compensation and perks.
Talent Leaving: If top talent is leaving your company, it could be a sign of deeper issues within the organization that may impact your career growth.
If these thoughts persist, it may be a good time to explore other opportunities that align better with your personal and professional experiences. A new job could provide not only more financial stability and healthcare benefits but also a more fulfilling career path.
Steps to Take Before Quitting Your Current Job
Before you quit your current job, it’s essential to create a solid exit strategy. Here's how to prepare to leave your job:
Give Two Weeks' Notice: Inform your employer at least two weeks in advance. This is standard practice for a smooth transition.
Submit a Formal Resignation Letter: Document your decision and outline your last working day. Submit this to your manager and human resources.
Resign In Person or via Video Call: Whenever possible, resign face-to-face or via video call rather than through email or phone.
Prepare for Immediate Departure: Some companies may ask you to leave immediately, so be ready for that possibility.
Maintain a Positive Attitude: Keep a professional demeanor to preserve good relationships for future references.
Offer to Train Your Replacement: This shows your commitment to a smooth transition.
By following these steps, you'll leave your current role on good terms and be well-prepared to start applying for your next job with confidence.
Preparing for Your New Role
Once you’ve landed your new job, it’s important to determine how to prepare effectively to make a great first impression. Familiarizing yourself with company-specific programs and software before you start will help you hit the ground running. You should also review the employee handbook to understand the company’s policies and culture, ensuring you’re aligned with expectations.
To better understand your role and your team, research your future colleagues on LinkedIn and learn about their employment backgrounds and positions within the company. If applicable, look into any educational programs or internal resources available to new workers.
Before your start date, reach out to your manager to clarify expectations for your first week and get a sense of the priorities. Testing your commute or remote work setup ahead of time will help ensure everything runs smoothly on your first day. Also, confirming your work schedule, including start time and break times, can avoid confusion. Arriving early will allow you to settle in and start the day stress-free.
Navigating Your Job Search for Success
Looking for a new job can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it gets easier. Start by figuring out what kind of roles match your skills and interests. Then, use every tool available (your network, job boards, referrals, and even job fairs) to uncover opportunities. Don’t forget to check company websites, connect with headhunters, and consider internships or temp roles that can open doors.
Stay organized as you apply, pay attention to signs that it might be time for a change, and take the time to prep for what’s next. With a clear plan and the right resources, you’ll be in a strong position to find a job that fits your goals.
