12 Do’s and Don’ts of a Mobile-First Job Search

That fantastic little device in your pocket can be an incredible weapon in your job search arsenal. When you are searching for a job, time is often of the essence, and you will need to rely on a mobile-first job search when you do not have access to your laptop or desktop. 

Certain professions may be more mobile led than others, in which case you will naturally rely on it more. Still, there are situations where using a mobile is not the optimal solution. It is vital to be selective in terms of how you harness the power of a mobile-first job search. 

You will likely spend 80% of your time on your mobile anyway, but choosing which activities to leave until you get back in front of a laptop is critical. Far from every career site is optimised for mobile, and certain application forms are better filled in from laptops. You only apply to a company once – make the most of the opportunity.

Here are six do’s and don’ts that may at first glance seem obvious. In the haste of the mobile-first job search, feeling the irrational FOMO pressure to apply immediately, too many of us might be tempted to use our phones a little too often than we should be. Please pay particular attention to the latter six – spend job search time on your desktop when it makes sense.

Mobile-first search do’s

…. Use your mobile to make the most of job search apps when you are out and about

…. Save your resume in the cloud for easy access (or email it to yourself)

…. Call or email to follow up with an employer – WhatsApp is increasingly acceptable

…. Use your mobile to remain active and available on social media – reach out to others

…. Create a mobile-specific email footer – share all the necessary contact details

…. Use your phone to react quickly to jobs if the application process is simple

Don’ts for a mobile search

…. Fill out complicated application forms with lots of text boxes on a mobile device

…. Edit your resume on your mobile – do it thoughtfully with your laptop at a table

…. Wait until the last minute to apply and rely on your smartphone to work (it may not)

…. Allow your phone to be visible at the interview. Don’t put it on the table. Turn it off.

…. Limit yourself to browsing mobile career sites – check out employers on desktop too

…. Do anything on mobile that you could do better on a laptop – rushing breeds regret

A mobile job search brings other benefits such as job search apps, instant notifications and 24/7 access to valuable social media networks. Your mobile should always be at your side during your search, but you don’t always need to be reaching for it.

Lastly, remember that constant screen time is detrimental to your health. Get outside, go for a walk, meet some friends for lunch and give yourself a break from the tech. Allowing yourself the luxury of doing nothing is crucial – when your mind wanders, creativity comes.

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This blog is shared with Job Seeker Duetists.

Written by former recruitment ghostwriter Paul Drury (not AI).