The job market can be highly competitive, but if you're applying for a new job in 2025, there are various ways to set yourself apart. With the right strategy, you can also align your career goals, find suitable roles for your skillset, and improve your chances of success. You'll also find that the job search process is more manageable with sufficient planning and research.
Whether you're a graduate, unemployed, or looking for something new, you can use the following job search tips and techniques to help you land your dream role.
1. Create a Job Search Plan
The best job search strategy is to create a plan before you start looking and applying for jobs. Having a plan from the start can make the job search process less intimidating and help you stay organized.
Your plan can detail the steps you want to take to find your dream job and serve as your guide throughout the process. You may want to include the companies you wish to contact, how many applications you want to complete, and a realistic timeline for the whole process.
Research from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the average time of unemployment in 2024 is 20 weeks, which is roughly four and a half months. While your process may be shorter or longer, keep this timeframe in mind while creating your plan and setting goals.
2. Outline Your Goals
One of the most beneficial things you can do at the start of the job process is set goals. Having your requirements and wishes written out will remind you of them every step of the way. This can help with decision-making and refocus your attention on what matters to you.
Here are some ideas for things you can include in career-focused goals:
- Your ideal job position.
- The companies you want to work for.
- A salary range you'd be happy with.
- Benefits that are important to you.
- Your work location wishes.
3. Research the Industry
Industry research is an integral part of job hunting. Gathering as much data and insights as possible helps inform your search strategies and could improve your chances of finding a job. Look for notable companies in your chosen industry and start compiling a list. If you already have some companies in mind, gather more information about them. You'll want to know what their workplace culture is like and read reviews from past employees. This will give you an idea of whether you want to apply to work there.
If you're new to the industry, you may also want to do some additional research about it. Read articles and watch videos to get a basic idea of any trends or news you should know before going for interviews. You might also uncover information to highlight in your applications. For example, if companies are looking for a particular skill set, you can showcase that in your resume. This research shows potential employers that you're knowledgeable and serious about the position.
4. Discover 2025 Employment Trends
Take your research further by examining current employment and job market trends. Knowing key trends is especially beneficial if you're still making career decisions or are looking to switch careers. For example, you can find out what jobs are in high demand. Applying for careers with positive outlooks and expected growth could make finding a job easier. Some in-demand positions in 2025 include software developers, data scientists, registered nurses, actuaries, and health services managers. This demand aligns with the growth of digital jobs that employees can perform remotely.
Understanding workplace shifts and trends can help you prepare for your new job, too. While digital jobs are on the rise, some companies are also looking to return to office work. Opportunities for remote work may decline in the coming years. In response, you may find jobs offering more benefits and flexibility to make up for office requirements.
5. Diversify Your Search
In 2025, you should use multiple job search methods to boost your chances of success. This means looking for open positions in various ways and applying for more positions.
Here are a few options you can explore to expand your search:
- Online job boards: One of the easiest ways to look for jobs is through online listings on job boards. You can search for industries, companies, and job titles and apply for any positions you feel you're suited for. Aim to apply for multiple listings per day and set job alerts so you know when something new pops up.
- Social media: Social media platforms can also help with job searching. Companies sometimes post about their open positions on their profiles, so you can follow them to be the first to know. You might also see people in your network post about job openings at their company.
- Networking: Networking is vital for job seekers, as connecting with professionals in your desired industry can open unexpected doors. To get started with networking, you can attend job fairs and conferences, use social platforms, or join professional communities. Focus on developing relationships with new people, but remember to contact your existing network, too.
- Recruitment agencies: Many companies enlist recruiters to help them find job candidates. You can contact a local recruitment agency as part of your job search. They'll work with you to match your skills to open roles.
- Company websites: Some companies post about vacancies on their own websites. If you have specific companies in mind, check their websites to see if they have a hiring page. You can also reach out via their website to enquire about a job and send your resume.
- Referrals: If you know anyone who works at a company you're interested in, you could ask them for a referral. Some companies look at referrals from current employees more quickly than other applicants. With their recommendation, you might have a higher chance of getting a job offer.
6. Build a Personal Brand
Part of the job search process is convincing companies that you are valuable and a good fit for their culture. An effective job strategy to make this task easier is to create your own personal brand. In general, a brand is an identity—something that distinguishes a business or product from its competitors. Your personal brand works similarly in that it's your unique identity that can set you apart from other job candidates.
To create a strong, clear personal brand, you can use social media and create a personal website. Improve your career-related social profiles by adding a professional headshot, cover image, and description. All three elements should highlight your personality, strengths, values, and experience. Incorporate relevant keywords to optimize your profile for search, making it easier for recruiters to find you. You can go a step further by creating and publishing content related to your industry. This will establish yourself as a thought leader and show potential hirers your expertise.
7. Learn New Skills
Learning new skills is an effective job search strategy. Upskilling yourself and staying up to date with current skill requirements will make you an asset to any company and help you stay competitive in the job market. It may also help you overcome any challenges you may face in a new position.
To learn new skills, you can take a course, try new software, watch videos online, attend a workshop or conference, and shadow a professional. There is plenty of free information online that you can use to boost your resume and hopefully land your dream job. It's also beneficial to continue to learn new things in the future to increase your skillset and stay ahead of trends.
8. Expand Your Search
Sometimes, one of the best strategies for finding a job is to keep an open mind. If you are only looking for a few specific positions, you may miss out on others that may be a good fit for you. Companies sometimes also list the same job under different names than you expect. Look out for jobs with your skills and take note of the position name to broaden your search.
If there aren't any open positions for the job you want, consider trying another related job in the meantime. You can also try a freelance or part-time position or something completely different from what you're used to. You never know who you might meet or what you'll discover about yourself. Plus, you can add the experience to your resume, which could boost your chances of getting your dream job in the future.
9. Tailor Your Resume
Once you've found some jobs to apply for, it's time to get your resume in order. Your resume should look tidy and professional, list all your relevant credentials, and be easy to read. However, you can increase your chances of success by customizing your resume for each position. This effective job application strategy highlights your interest in the position and sets you apart from other applicants.
Start by reading the company's website and job listings. You want to look for any particular points they mention regarding desired skills, values, and experience. Emphasize any relevant skills and accomplishments in your cover letter and resume based on the information you find. You can also take note of the important ones to bring up in an interview.
10. Highlight Your Soft Skills
Soft skills are becoming increasingly important in the workplace. In 2025, you may even see some companies prioritize them over technical skills. They include communication, conflict management, problem-solving, flexibility, leadership, and more.
Soft skills help you work well with others and build strong relationships. These are desirable traits for companies as they help employees communicate with clients and colleagues, overcome challenges, and avoid conflict. When writing your resume and cover letter, make sure to emphasize your strong soft skills.
11. Practice for Interviews
Once you've submitted a few applications, you may start to get requests for an interview. This is an exciting next step, and you can make it easier for yourself by preparing in advance. Many interviewers ask similar questions in the first interview, so research these online and come up with potential answers. For example, they may ask you about your strengths and weaknesses or ask you to describe a time you had to solve a problem or conflict.
You can then compile a list of questions for a practice interview. Ask a friend or family member to interview you, or set up a camera and record yourself. Practice answering the questions in random order to ensure you're adequately prepared. You can also ask for feedback or watch the recording to see where you can improve. This process can help you feel more confident on the day and reduce pre-interview nerves.
12. Follow Up
One last job search tip is to follow up throughout the hiring process. Once you've had your first interview, it's a good idea to send an email to thank them for their time. If you don't hear back after a couple of weeks following your application submission, you can send an email restating your interest and requesting an update. Following up emphasizes your passion for the role and shows the hiring manager your motivation and diligence.
Keep your head up if you don't hear back about your submission or receive a rejection. It's all part of the job search process. With patience and persistence, you'll find a job that's right for you.
Start a Career at Intuitive
If you're looking for a fulfilling and challenging career path, apply for a position at Intuitive. We prove what's possible with medical technology every day through passion, innovation, and inspiration. Our team is unified by a shared mission to improve minimally invasive care and help doctors save lives.
We're seeking talented individuals to fill our open positions, including administration, engineering, customer experience, accounting, human resources, sales, and marketing. We value our people and offer benefits that reflect our commitment to your well-being and development. With us, you'll receive flexible vacation time, health insurance, 401k programs, mental health support, tuition reimbursement, and many more benefits.
Browse and apply to one of our open roles to get started. You can also join our Talent Community, where we'll keep you updated on new job openings and company news.
