Looking for Work in All the Wrong Places? Here’s How to Maximize Your Job Search Results
If your job search hasn’t been yielding results, it’s time to think outside the box. Many job seekers limit themselves to traditional applications and local opportunities, but the most rewarding roles often require a creative approach.
Kamy Charles
1/30/20251 min read
1. Consider Relocation for More Opportunities
Some cities are oversaturated, while others have a high demand for talent. Expanding your job search can increase your chances of landing a role—especially in industries like tech, healthcare, and finance.
Pro Tip: Research growing job hubs where companies are actively hiring and competition is lower.
2. Look Beyond Traditional Full-Time Employment
The workforce is evolving—contract, freelance, and fractional work can be as lucrative as full-time roles with more flexibility.
Freelancing: Build your reputation with platforms like Upwork, Toptal, and Fiverr.
Contracting: Many companies hire contract workers first before extending full-time offers.
Fractional Leadership: Senior professionals can find part-time executive roles in multiple companies.
Pro Tip: Some companies prefer to hire project-based first, so take advantage of short-term roles to get your foot in the door.
3. Use Industry-Specific Job Boards
Instead of competing on generic job boards, check niche sites where top employers post exclusive roles:
High-Paying Roles: The Ladders
POC-Friendly Remote Jobs: Remote POC
Startup & Tech Jobs: AngelList
Emerging Opportunities: Welcome to the Jungle
Pro Tip: Targeting industry-specific job boards gives you access to less competitive but higher-quality roles.
4. Leverage Your Network for Hidden Opportunities
80% of jobs are filled through networking, not job boards. Your next job could come from a conversation.
Pro Tip: Join LinkedIn groups, attend virtual events, and schedule coffee chats with professionals in your field.
5. Pitch Yourself to Companies You Admire
Not every job opening is advertised—many are filled through internal referrals or direct outreach.
Research companies that align with your goals.
Find hiring managers on LinkedIn.
Send a concise, high-value pitch explaining how you can help their team grow.
Pro Tip: Keep your outreach brief, customized, and results-driven to stand out.
Expand Your Search, Expand Your Opportunities, Improve your Results!
The key to landing your next role is to ditch outdated job search methods and think strategically. Whether it’s relocating, exploring freelance/contract work, networking more effectively, or pitching yourself, these approaches will help you land better opportunities faster.