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In this article, I’ll sum up the valuable tips shared by Austin Belcak on Andrew Giancola’s podcast. For the full episode, watch here: https://youtu.be/LZtI_UTcmAY?si=cDhIrDmreQOKUjlp – highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐
In Hong Kong’s bustling job market, standing out as a candidate requires much more than simply applying online. With only a 2% chance of getting hired through online applications, most successful candidates are using a different approach: networking and building relationships.
Here’s a practical guide to take your job search to the next level, based on expert advice and proven techniques ⬇️
1. Networking with a Purpose
Networking is one of the most powerful tools in your job search toolkit. Building genuine connections, especially with hiring managers, can make all the difference. Instead of asking for jobs directly, focus on seeking advice and insights. For example, try asking, “Would you recommend I do A or B for a better result/ to reach this job?”
Show appreciation for their advice and follow up by sharing how it helped you. This approach demonstrates your gratitude, willingness to learn, and proactive attitude—qualities that leave a lasting positive impression.
What you can do now:
2. Turning LinkedIn into Your Sales Page
Your LinkedIn profile should showcase exactly what you bring to the table. Treat it as your sales page, positioning yourself as someone who solves specific problems. Use a title that’s direct and impactful, such as “I help companies achieve X through Y.”
Also, consider using tools like Photofeeler to get feedback on your profile photo or headline.io to refine your headline for maximum impact.
What you can do now:
3. Creating a Master Resume and Customizing for Each Job
Have a comprehensive resume that includes all relevant experiences and skills. From this master version, create job-specific resumes for each application. Tailoring your resume with keywords from the job description shows that you understand the specific needs of the company.
Tools like resumatch.io can help make this process easier by aligning your resume with the job requirements.
What you can do now:
4. Mastering the Interview with Personalized Responses
Preparation is key for any interview, but personalization sets you apart. Research the company thoroughly and tailor your answers to demonstrate your understanding of their challenges and how you can add value.
Prepare basic interview questions and refine your answers using AI. Then, before the interview, personalize your responses by linking each answer to the company (e.g., 'I spoke with you and understand you have this challenge—let me show how I’ve handled similar challenges'). Don't focus only on yourself!
What you can do now:
5. Negotiating Your Salary from the Start
Always negotiate your salary—even at the initial stages.
Ask for the salary range to ensure it aligns with your expectations before investing too much time in the process. Try framing it as, “Can you share the budget range for this role? I want to make sure we’re aligned.”
If the range aligns, confirm with, “That’s within my range,” and move forward. If the recruiter seeks more information (your salary expectations), you can add, “I’m currently being considered by companies offering a range of…” (Research using Glassdoor, Payscale, etc.).
Final negotiation: three scenarios:
- You receive 100% of your requested salary (well done 👏!)
- You receive, for instance, 90% of your request: negotiate for the remaining 10% in forms like professional development, equity, remote work, stock options, or bonuses.
- Do not go below your bottom line. Broaden your negotiation points by linking your potential contributions to the company’s goals: “If I join, I can achieve xxxx for the company, as shown by my results here and here.” Connect these examples to their strategies and current challenges.
What you can do now:
6. Securing a Promotion: Building Momentum in Your First 90 Days
Setting yourself up for promotion starts early. Meet key people in your first three months, especially those who influence upward mobility within the company, and learn about their goals.
In your own words, what is your role in the company?” Then, follow up with, “If my team could change something to better support your goals, what would that be?” (This provides you with a roadmap for the following months!) Finally, ask, “What’s your best piece of advice for someone who’s new here?”
Use also your manager as a partner, tell her/him, “I’d like to be in that position in 12 months—what experiences or skills am I missing?” Then ask, “What kind of projects could we work on together to help me gain those skills and experiences?” Follow through on what they suggest, and go beyond where possible. After 12 months, return with, “I accomplished what you recommended (B and C), and I also took on additional projects (D and E) to achieve X.” By partnering with your manager as both a mentor and supporter, it becomes clear that you’ve developed the skills needed for the role.
What you can do now:
Key Takeaways:
- Network with Intent: Show gratitude and focus on learning; connections are built on genuine curiosity and respect.
- Polish Your LinkedIn Profile: Use it as a sales page and make it visually appealing and clear.
- Customize Each Resume: Make each application stand out by showing exactly why you’re a fit for that role.
- Prepare with Personalization: Understand the company’s needs and align your interview responses accordingly.
- Negotiate Your Salary Confidently: Ask about the salary range early, research thoroughly, and be ready to advocate for your value.
- Plan for Promotion: Establish connections and seek feedback from day one to build a roadmap toward your goals.
By following these steps, you’ll not only increase your chances of landing a job but also position yourself for growth and success in your new role.