Online Job Hunting Tips

Your Virtual Assistant receives hundreds of resumes each month, and while we can’t offer assignments to each job applicant we do want to help. Here are several tips to assist you in your quest for an online, work-at-home job in the very fast paced virtual assistance industry.

Tip #1: If you’re not getting interviews, take another look at your strategy or résumé. Employers are looking for what you’ve done recently. Your strategy has to include networking — even contacting hiring managers — as well as relying on multiple resources (not just the Internet).

Tip #2: Résumés should be a showcase of accomplishments, not a job description. Then, quantify those accomplishments (through metrics) in a manner recognized by the virtual assistant industry.

Tip #3: If you’re getting interviews, but not receiving job offers, you need to improve your interviewing techniques. We suggest telling stories that illustrate accomplishments relevant to the job or project that the hiring manager is discussing with you. If you can demonstrate proven skills by providing samples of your work online you will be much more likely to be considered for a project.  It’s also important to demonstrate energy and hunger, and ask for feedback.

Tip #4: Get input from an objective friend who can give you honest feedback about everything from your résumé to your telephone skills. Practice your interview with them.

Tip #5: It could be time for self-evaluation. Can you figure out what is wrong and fix it? If not, ask for help.

Tip #6: If you’ve been out of work for six months and are worried about what to tell a prospective employer, keep busy. Try your hand at being a consultant, starting a business, taking courses, meeting people at industry events and writing articles. If you do all of these things simultaneously, it will put you in a better position to get a job in the virtual assistant industry.