5 Steps to Build A Target Job Search Title List

Navigating the online job market can be a challenging endeavor, mainly because the job titles you encounter may not always reflect the roles you envision. Companies have their unique ways of labeling positions, and the sheer variety of job listings can be overwhelming. However, with a thoughtful strategy, you can effectively pinpoint job titles that align with your skills and career objectives. Here’s a refined guide on how to identify target job titles for your online job search:
1. Conduct a Comprehensive Self-Assessment: Kickstart your job search journey by taking a deep dive into your strengths, skills, interests, and career aspirations. Define the specific roles and responsibilities you are seeking in your next job and identify the job title that best matches your criteria.
2. Research Your Target Companies: Delve into the career pages of the companies you are interested in. Thoroughly examine job descriptions to gain insights into the responsibilities and qualifications required for the various roles. Look for recurring skills or certifications that resonate with your career goals. Additionally, explore the LinkedIn profiles of individuals holding your target job title within these companies. Understand their backgrounds and skillsets, as companies might use unique job titles that don’t align with industry norms.
3. Leverage Your Network: Reach out to your network, including friends, colleagues, mentors, and industry peers. Seek their advice and inquire about job titles that match your qualifications and ambitions. Their firsthand experiences and insights can be invaluable.
4. Utilize Advanced Search Filters on Job Boards: Popular job search platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor offer extensive lists of job openings. Begin with broad keywords related to your field or your ideal job title and then narrow down your search based on the results. Most of these platforms provide advanced search filters, enabling you to refine your search by location, salary range, experience level, and even company size. Additionally, some job boards standardize job titles, which can help you identify alternative job title variations.
5. Explore Synonyms and Related Titles: Stay open to synonyms and related job titles. For instance, a “pricing analyst” might also be listed as a “revenue management specialist.”
You now have enough information to compile a list of job titles that resonate with your skills and aspirations. This list will serve as your job title target inventory when you browse company websites and job search platforms. Remember that the job market is dynamic and constantly evolving. Stay informed about industry trends and emerging roles. Be flexible in adapting your job search strategy as needed, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different job titles in your searches. If a particular keyword fails to yield results, explore related terms or synonyms. Persistence and patience are key to your job search success.