Get Hired Now!

Introduction

In today's competitive job market, finding and securing your dream job can be a daunting task. Many people struggle with the job search process, unsure of how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of recruitment and hiring. Ian Siegel's book "Get Hired Now!" aims to demystify this process and provide job seekers with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.

This comprehensive guide covers every aspect of the job search, from crafting the perfect résumé to acing interviews and negotiating job offers. Siegel, drawing from his extensive experience as the co-founder and CEO of ZipRecruiter, offers insider insights and practical advice that can help anyone become an expert job-seeker.

Key Ideas

1. Crafting the Perfect Résumé

In today's digital age, your résumé needs to be tailored not just for human eyes but also for the automated systems that many companies use to screen applicants. Siegel provides several key tips for creating a résumé that will get past the bots and catch the attention of recruiters:

Keep it simple and clear

Gone are the days of fancy formatting and elaborate designs. To get past automated screening systems, your résumé should be simple and straightforward. Avoid using:

• Boxes
• Columns
• Tables
• Headers and footers
• Logos
• Nonstandard fonts

Instead, opt for a clean, easy-to-read layout that both machines and humans can easily parse.

Use generic job titles

Many automated systems are programmed to recognize standard job titles. If your current or past job titles are unique or unconventional, consider translating them into more generic terms that are widely recognized in your industry.

Write like a caveman

Siegel advises job seekers to keep their language clear and simple – almost like a caveman would write. This approach serves two purposes:

1. It makes it easier for automated systems to summarize your résumé.
2. It allows human recruiters to quickly scan and understand your qualifications, given that they often spend as little as 7.4 seconds reviewing each résumé.

Include essential information

Make sure your résumé includes:

• Full name
• Address
• Phone number
• Email address
• A summary paragraph (for those with extensive experience or résumés longer than one page)

Detail your work experience effectively

When describing your work history:

• List your most recent job first
• Include generic job title, company name, and location
• Describe what you did and the impact you had
• Use numbers to quantify your achievements when possible

For example, instead of simply stating "Burrito maker," write "Made 1,000 burritos per week."

Education and skills

• Only include high school information if you haven't completed higher education
• Be precise about your skills and include how long you've used them

Address gaps in work history

Be honest about any gaps in your work experience:

• If you were laid off, say so and explain why
• If you were fired, don't mention it on your résumé – save that explanation for the interview
• If you took time off to raise children, you can even add a touch of humor, such as "Changed 6,729 diapers" or "Reduced crying time by over 63 percent"

Double-check for errors

Spelling and grammatical errors can be deal-breakers. Always proofread your résumé carefully and consider having a friend review it as well. Errors suggest poor attention to detail, which can cost you job opportunities.

Consider professional help

If you're struggling with your résumé, don't hesitate to invest in a professional résumé-writing service. These specialists can help you present your qualifications in the best possible light.

2. Managing Your Online Presence

In the digital age, your online presence can be just as important as your résumé. Siegel emphasizes the need to clean up your social media profiles and build professional relationships through networking.

Clean up your social media

A 2018 survey by CareerBuilder found that 70 percent of employers research candidates using social networking sites. Moreover, 57 percent of them decided not to hire an applicant based on the content they found. To protect your professional image:

• Review all your posts and comments on social media platforms
• Remove or make private any content that might be seen as unprofessional or controversial
• Keep your LinkedIn profile public and professional, as it's meant for networking

Line up your references

Choose references who will give you glowing recommendations. These could include:

• Previous employers
• Coworkers
• Teachers or professors (for recent graduates)

Remember to reconnect with your references when you provide their names to a potential employer.

Network effectively

Networking can be a powerful tool in your job search. Studies suggest that between 60 and 85 percent of jobs are filled through networking. To expand your professional network:

• Invite everyone you know to join your social networks
• Engage with others' content by liking, retweeting, sharing, or commenting
• Share your passions and interests (but avoid divisive topics)
• Focus on building relationships, not just finding job opportunities

Remember that many jobs are never advertised because they're created internally or for known candidates. By expanding your network, you increase your chances of being that known candidate.

3. Utilizing Job Search Tools

The job search process has evolved significantly with the advent of technology. Siegel recommends using feature-rich job-search engines and professional networking sites to find the right vacancies.

Key features to look for in job-search sites

• Aggregation: Sites that gather job listings from across the internet
• One-click applications: The ability to apply directly from the search interface
• AI-powered recommendations and alerts
• The ability to review and correct information extracted from your résumé
• Application tracking features
• Status updates on your applications

Siegel naturally recommends ZipRecruiter, given his role as co-founder and CEO, but he also emphasizes the importance of LinkedIn for professional networking.

Maximizing LinkedIn

To make the most of LinkedIn:

• Keep your profile updated with your skills, experience, and a professional photo
• Craft a headline that provides an overview of your expertise and indicates you're open to opportunities
• Search for jobs and companies you're interested in
• Connect with current and past colleagues and friends
• Join professional groups to expand your network

4. Applying for the Right Jobs

Timing and strategy are crucial when applying for jobs. Siegel provides several key tips for maximizing your chances of success:

Apply quickly

Submit your application within two days of a job being posted. Recruiters often move quickly, and being among the first applicants can give you a significant advantage.

Don't disqualify yourself

Job requirements are often a wish list rather than strict criteria. If you meet at least 40 percent of the listed requirements, go ahead and apply.

Look for exact title matches

Automated systems are likely to prioritize candidates whose current job title matches the position exactly.

Leverage your network

If you know someone at the company, use that connection. Many jobs are filled through personal recommendations.

Consider your passion and expertise

Apply for jobs related to products, companies, or services you're passionate about. Your enthusiasm and knowledge will shine through in the application process.

Factor in practical considerations

Consider factors like commute time and potential for higher earnings when choosing which jobs to apply for.

Explore opportunities with competitors

Your current employer's competitors may value your industry-specific knowledge and experience.

5. Acing the Interview

The interview is your chance to make a lasting impression. Siegel provides advice on everything from what to wear to how to answer common questions.

First impressions matter

You have just 20 seconds to make a good first impression. Pay attention to:

• Clothing: Dress appropriately and stylishly, but avoid perfume or cologne
• Sweat management: Use antiperspirant, wear an undershirt, and consider sweat pads if necessary
• Body language: Smile genuinely, make strong (but not excessive) eye contact, and give a firm handshake
• Use of names: Address the interviewer by name to show respect

Handle common questions effectively

• "Tell me about yourself": Use this as an opportunity to express interest in the company and pivot the conversation to the interviewer or the company's work
• "Why are you leaving your current job?": Avoid speaking negatively about your current employer
• "What are your salary expectations?": Research market rates beforehand and consider deflecting if you're not ready to discuss numbers

Make the interview a conversation

Treat the interview like a tennis match, always returning the ball to the interviewer. Answer questions, then ask your own to create a two-way dialogue.

Create memorable moments

Try to create moments where the interviewer feels they've taught you something or improved on an idea you offered. This can help you stand out from other candidates.

Follow up

Always send a thank-you note after the interview. Surprisingly, less than half of candidates take this simple step to stand out.

6. Negotiating Your Offer

Negotiation is a crucial part of the job search process that many candidates overlook. Siegel emphasizes the importance of negotiating and provides strategies for doing so effectively.

Why negotiate?

• Most employers expect candidates to negotiate
• Initial offers are often 5-15% lower than what the employer is willing to pay
• Even a small increase can add up to significant earnings over time

Negotiation strategies

• Be the first to mention a number, and make it higher than you expect
• If the employer makes the first offer, counter with a higher number
• Consider non-monetary benefits like flexible work arrangements, vacation time, or moving expenses
• Prioritize what's most important to you and be willing to compromise on less critical items

Finalizing the offer

• Get the final offer in writing
• Accept enthusiastically and start using inclusive language (e.g., "we" instead of "you") to show you're ready to join the team

Final Thoughts

"Get Hired Now!" provides a comprehensive roadmap for navigating the modern job search landscape. By following Siegel's advice, job seekers can improve their chances of landing their dream job in several key ways:

1. Crafting a résumé that appeals to both automated systems and human recruiters
2. Managing their online presence to present a professional image
3. Utilizing powerful job search tools and networking effectively
4. Applying strategically to the right positions
5. Mastering the art of interviewing
6. Negotiating confidently to secure the best possible offer

The job search process has evolved significantly in recent years, with technology playing an increasingly important role. However, the fundamentals of presenting yourself well, building relationships, and demonstrating your value remain crucial. By combining these timeless principles with modern strategies for navigating online job platforms and automated screening systems, job seekers can position themselves for success in today's competitive job market.

One of the most valuable takeaways from Siegel's book is the importance of being proactive and strategic throughout the job search process. From tailoring your résumé to specific job listings to following up after interviews, every step presents an opportunity to stand out from other candidates and move closer to your career goals.

Another key insight is the significance of networking and building relationships. In a world where many jobs are filled through personal connections and recommendations, cultivating a strong professional network can open doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain hidden.

Siegel's advice on negotiation is particularly valuable, as it encourages job seekers to advocate for themselves and secure the best possible compensation and benefits package. By approaching negotiation as an expected part of the process rather than a confrontational exchange, candidates can feel more confident in asking for what they're worth.

Ultimately, "Get Hired Now!" empowers job seekers with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their career paths. By understanding how hiring processes work behind the scenes and learning to present themselves effectively at every stage, readers can approach their job search with confidence and increase their chances of landing not just any job, but the right job for their skills, interests, and career goals.

As the job market continues to evolve, the strategies and insights provided in this book will remain relevant, helping readers adapt to new technologies and trends in hiring. Whether you're a recent graduate entering the workforce for the first time, a seasoned professional looking to make a career change, or someone who simply wants to be prepared for future opportunities, "Get Hired Now!" offers valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of the modern job search.

In conclusion, Ian Siegel's "Get Hired Now!" is an essential resource for anyone looking to advance their career in today's competitive job market. By combining practical advice with insider insights, the book equips readers with the tools they need to stand out from the crowd, make meaningful connections, and ultimately secure the job opportunities that align with their professional aspirations. As you embark on your own job search journey, remember that success often comes to those who are well-prepared, persistent, and willing to adapt their approach as needed. With the strategies outlined in this book, you'll be well-positioned to tackle the challenges of job hunting and emerge victorious in your quest for career success.