Editor's Note: This story originally appeared on FlexJobs.com.
As an introvert, you might worry that your natural tendencies may present challenges when it comes to a job search. However, that’s simply not the case.
In fact, there are some strengths you uniquely possess that you can leverage to your advantage.
Here we share five tips to help you have a more successful job search.
1. Take a Different Approach to Your Job Search
Most people looking for jobs go to a job board and start firing off resumes. However, this isn’t a good approach. A better way to handle your job search is to take some time for self-reflection.
Ask yourself what you need to succeed in your next role. Do you want to find a remote job where you are comfortable and feel most energized? Or, maybe you want to find a job that requires little time on the phone?
As an introvert, you’ll need to consider the level of engagement with others to maximize you success.
Use these insights to create a more strategic approach to your job search. Instead of scouring job boards for open positions, research companies that fit your needs. For example, maybe you decide you’re going to target companies with 100% remote jobs.
Start researching companies that offer that option, and apply to any roles you’re qualified for. This will help you find a job where you can thrive and succeed.
2. Create a Schedule
Introverts tend to value alone time, which means they’re probably not at the new trendy nightclub on their day off.
As an introvert, you might be tempted to use all of your free time searching job boards for a new position. But using all of your time to focus on job searching could lead to burnout.
To avoid having your job search creep into all hours of your day, create a schedule.
For example, maybe you decide you’re going to job search Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Stick to that schedule. Don’t start job searching again at 7 p.m. or on weekends. Doing this will allow you to be more productive and well-rested for your job search.
3. Practice Self-Care
Self-care is important for anyone, but especially for job seekers that identify as introverts.
Introverts can find large networking events or back-to-back interviews exhausting. That’s why it’s important to take time to restore your energy.
However, self-care doesn’t have to be anything elaborate. You could simply have some alone time in your room. Or, you could go for a walk in a nearby park.
Do whatever fuels you so you can maintain your well-being. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is just as important as applying for jobs.
4. Leverage Your Strengths
What do President Barack Obama, Emma Watson, and Keanu Reeves have in common? They’re all introverts. They’ve also learned to successfully leverage their strengths to thrive in their careers. And you can do the same.
There are many benefits to being an introvert that you can apply in your job search. For example, introverts can excel at professional networking events. While extroverted people may quickly introduce themselves and move on to the next person, this isn’t the case with introverts.
Introverts are great at forming deeper connections with people. And those stronger connections may make you more memorable, leading to more referrals for open roles.
Introverts are also very observant. This can be helpful when interacting with hiring managers during an interview. It’s believed that these observational skills make introverted people much better at interpersonal communication.
You can use these skills to your advantage to develop rapport with the hiring team and connect with them on a deeper level.
5. Utilize Social Media
If the idea of going to a large professional networking event makes you nervous, use social media to your advantage. Sites like LinkedIn make it easier than ever to connect with people in your field or who work at your target companies.
You can join LinkedIn or other social media groups to share your expertise and form meaningful connections with other professionals.
In addition, 95% of recruiters use LinkedIn to vet job candidates. A strong LinkedIn presence can help you uncover hidden job opportunities that aren’t listed on popular job board sites.
When creating your LinkedIn profile, use keywords recruiters might search for, so you appear in more search results.
Thrive as an Introverted Job Seeker
You don’t need to be outgoing to land a new job. Introverts can find a position that fits their needs as long as they job search strategically.
By focusing on your target companies, using social media, and leveraging your strengths as an introvert, you can have a fruitful job search.
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