How to find the right job: 3 secrets to getting a job quickly.

Are you feeling that your current job is no longer a good fit?
Or perhaps you've just graduated and are struggling to find your first job?

No matter what stage you're in, finding the right job is never easy. Today's job market is more competitive than ever—demanding not only competence but also a clear strategy and the right kind of persistence .

Start by building professional relationships (networking) , searching for opportunities online , and preparing outstanding application materials (CV, cover letter) tailored to each specific position.

This process can be tiring, but if you are persistent, have a plan, and know what you're looking for , you'll soon find the job that's truly for you — a job that makes you grow, happy, and proud every day.

Secrets to finding the right job and impressing recruiters.

Finding the right job isn't just about "sending out lots of resumes," but about understanding what you want and strategically showcasing it . Below are some practical tips to make your job search easier.

• Clearly define your career goals.
  Before you begin, ask yourself: what kind of job do you want, what kind of environment do you prefer, and what are your career development goals for the next 3–5 years? Once you know your direction, every step that follows becomes easier.

• Optimize your LinkedIn profile.
  Keep your profile complete, use professional images, and write a concise description of your outstanding skills and experience. Include industry-related keywords to increase your chances of being found by recruiters.

• Expanding your professional network (networking)
  Connect and interact with people in the industry—comment, share, or ask expert questions. Many good job opportunities come from these relationships, not just from job sites.

• Be confident and sincere during the interview.
  Don't try to be perfect. Employers value spontaneity, honesty, and a proactive attitude. Prepare your own questions and ideas to demonstrate initiative.

• Don't forget to showcase your value.
  Employers are not only interested in what you can do, but also what you can contribute to the team . Prove this with concrete examples from your real-world experience.

By mastering these principles, you can not only find a suitable job , but also build a sustainable career in the direction you desire.

Secret 1: 5 effective steps to submitting a job application that will help you make a great first impression.

Step 1: Understand the job description before applying.

One of the first and most important steps when looking for a job is to carefully read the job description . This helps you determine whether the position matches your skills, experience, and career goals .

• Read the job description carefully.
  Take the time to thoroughly research the job, including its responsibilities, required skills, education level, and experience. Understanding the job description will help you prepare an application that closely matches the employer's needs.

• Clearly define the mandatory requirements.
  Pay attention to the "mandatory" criteria such as language proficiency, professional certifications, or years of experience. If you don't meet any of these requirements, you shouldn't apply , as it will only waste your time and damage your reputation in the eyes of the employer.

• Selective application, not mass recruitment.
  Effective job applications aren't about quantity, but about suitability . Focus on positions where you're truly capable and have long-term growth opportunities.

For example, if a job posting states "Spanish language skills required" and you are not proficient in the language, it's best not to apply . Instead, look for jobs that are a better fit for your existing skills.

Step 2: Pay attention to and utilize keywords in the job description.

When reading job postings, pay special attention to the key keywords that the employer emphasizes. These are the "clues" that will help you understand what kind of candidate they are looking for and how you should present your application accordingly.

• Identify prominent keywords
  The words or phrases that are frequently repeated in a job description are the main keywords . For example, if the position is in the marketing field, you might see phrases like: digital marketing, SEO, Google Analytics, content strategy, social media management ...

• Include keywords in your CV and cover letter.
  Cleverly incorporate these keywords into the skills and experience sections of your CV and cover letter . This will help recruiters quickly recognize that you possess the expertise they are looking for.

• Optimizing profiles for automated screening systems (ATS)
  Many businesses now use automated resume screening software (Applicant Tracking System). If your CV doesn't contain the right keywords, chances are your application will never reach a recruiter .

• Demonstrate understanding of the job
  Using the right keywords not only helps you get past the resume screening process, but also shows that you truly understand the job and industry environment you're applying for .

Step 3: Carefully review your documents before submitting them.

Before clicking the "Submit Application" button on job recruitment websites or company websites, take the time to review all the information you have entered . A small mistake in your CV or cover letter can cost you a valuable opportunity.

• Review the entire file.
  Carefully review your CV and cover letter to ensure there are no spelling, grammar, or grammatical errors. A well-prepared application demonstrates professionalism and respect for the employer .

• Check personal information
  Ensure your name, phone number, email address, LinkedIn link, and other contact information are accurate. Many candidates miss out on interview opportunities simply because they enter the wrong email address or phone number.

• Review the online form
  When filling out information on a recruitment website, make sure that all required fields are completed and that the content is displayed in the correct format .

• Read it one last time before sending.
  Think of your profile as a product that showcases your personal brand . A thorough review before submitting it can help you make a strong impression right from the first round.

Step 4: Make a strong impression in the job interview.

After passing the application screening, the interview is your golden opportunity to demonstrate your abilities and suitability . Success in this round depends not only on your knowledge, but also on how you prepare and present yourself.

• Prepare thoroughly before the interview.
  Research the company, the position you're applying for, and prepare specific examples of your previous work achievements . This will help you demonstrate that you can bring real value to the business.
  For example, you could say: “I understand the company is looking for new ways to increase sales, and I’d love to share an idea for a direct marketing campaign that I successfully implemented.”

• Professional and appropriate attire
  Whether the company has a casual or formal style, dressing smartly is always the safest option . Your appearance is the first impression you make on the recruiter.

• Communicate confidently and naturally.
  Maintain eye contact , speak clearly and coherently, and show enthusiasm for the job. Employers always appreciate candidates with positive energy and a proactive attitude .

• Arrive on time.
  Arriving 5-10 minutes early demonstrates professionalism and respect for the interviewer's time .

• Prepare for the question "Please introduce yourself."
  According to a survey of 222 people, 58% said this was the most important question to prepare for . Briefly and confidently describe your career journey—focus on your strengths, values, and future aspirations that align with the company.

Step 5: Actively follow up after submitting your application or interview.

After submitting your application or completing an interview, don't just sit there waiting . Actively following up demonstrates professionalism, thoughtfulness, and genuine interest in the position you applied for.

• Send a thank-you letter after the interview.
  This is a polite business practice and demonstrates professionalism . Please send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview.
  For example, you could write:
  "Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I am very impressed with the company's development direction and excited about the opportunity to contribute as a member of the team."

• Follow-up after submitting your application
  If you haven't received a response after a few days or a week, you can send a polite follow-up email to confirm that your application has been received.
  For example:
  "I am writing to confirm that your company has received my application. If you require further information or specific examples of my skills, I am happy to provide them."

• Maintain a professional and concise tone.
  Write politely, avoiding any impatience or pressure. Your goal is to subtly remind the employer that you are a serious and worthwhile candidate .

• Don't forget to check your inbox and phone.
  After sending a thank-you letter or follow-up email, proactively check your email regularly to respond promptly when you receive new information.

Tip 2: How to write a professional CV and cover letter: Increase your chances of getting an interview.

Step 1: Tailor your CV to each job description.

An effective CV (resume) should not only list skills and experience, but also demonstrate that you are the right person for the employer's needs . Each job has its own criteria, so tailor your CV accordingly instead of sending the same one everywhere.

• Analyze the job description carefully.
  Carefully read the job description and responsibilities to understand what kind of candidate the employer is looking for . Note down keywords and key themes —these are clues that will help you tailor your CV accordingly.

• Incorporate key keywords into your CV.
  If the job posting emphasizes “ outstanding communication skills ,” please provide specific examples:
  "I led a five-person project team and presented to the management board, which helped increase team productivity by 20%."

• Customize the content instead of rewriting it entirely.
  You don't need to completely rewrite your CV every time you apply for a job. Just highlight the skills, experience, or achievements that are most relevant to the job.

• Shows a clear and natural fit.
  A good CV is one that quickly reveals to the recruiter that you "match" the position they need to fill , both in terms of skills and career aspirations.

Step 2: Write an impressive self-introduction in your CV (Personal Profile).

The self-introduction section at the beginning of your CV is your chance to make a first impression on the recruiter . This is where you quickly summarize your outstanding strengths and why you are a good fit for the job. Write it concisely and to the point, but with enough substance to make the reader want to read on.

• A brief, professional introduction.
  Write approximately 3–5 sentences clearly stating who you are , your outstanding experience , and the value you can bring to the company. Avoid rambling or simply listing your entire CV.

• Focus on your most outstanding skills.
  Choose 2–3 of your most important skills or strengths that are relevant to the position you are applying for. For example: negotiation , decision-making , time management , team leadership, etc.

• Avoid using vague and ambiguous language.
  Phrases like "organized," "hardworking," and "enthusiastic" are too common and unimpressive. Instead, express yourself using specific, in-depth, and professional language .

• Examples of effective introductions:
  “Marketing specialist with over 5 years of experience in digital marketing and SEO. Proficient in building content strategies to increase online revenue. Capable of making quick decisions and collaborating effectively under high-pressure environments.”

The Personal Profile section doesn't need to be long, but it must be strong enough to make recruiters want to read the rest of your CV .

Step 3: Write a professional and persuasive cover letter.

Besides your CV, a cover letter is a tool that helps you showcase your personality, experience, and suitability for the position you're applying for. Even though many companies only require a CV, you should still prepare a template so you can easily edit it to suit the specific job.

• A brief introduction and a show of interest.
  Begin your cover letter by clearly stating the position you are applying for and why you are interested in the job . The tone should be professional yet natural, conveying enthusiasm.

• Clearly present your outstanding experience and skills.
  Briefly explain why you are a good fit for the company's requirements , based on your accomplishments or practical experience .
  For example: “During my internship, I was responsible for coordinating a team project with 5 members, which helped improve my teamwork skills and project management abilities.”

• Customize content by location.
  Each job has different criteria, so tailor your cover letter to accurately reflect the employer's needs . Don't send the same template for everything.

• Concise, focused, and to the point.
  An ideal cover letter should be just one A4 page long , with clear language, and avoid repeating content from your CV.

• An impressive and professional finish.
  Conclude the letter with a thank you and a positive promise, for example:
  "I would very much like to have the opportunity to speak in person to share more about how I can contribute to your company's team."

Step 4: Carefully edit your resume before submitting it.

A CV and cover letter, no matter how well-written, will lose points if they contain spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, or are poorly presented. Carefully checking and editing demonstrates your professionalism, attention to detail, and seriousness about the job.

• Review the entire content multiple times.
  Review each section of your CV and cover letter, from the title and job description to the skills and contact information. Ensure that the grammar, spelling, formatting, and punctuation are all correct.

• Read slowly and carefully with your naked eye.
  Don't rely entirely on spell checkers. Read aloud to detect grammatical errors, repeated words, or unnatural-sounding sentences.

• Ask someone else to read it for you.
  A friend or family member can help you spot mistakes you might easily overlook . Sometimes, all it takes is "a fresh eye" to detect small but important details.

• Maintain a consistent presentation style.
  Review the font, font size, line spacing, and margins to ensure the document looks neat, consistent, and easy to read.

• Final check before sending
  Before clicking "Submit," read it one more time—this is a small step, but it can determine the recruiter's first impression of you .

Step 5: Build a professional image online.

In the digital age, employers often "research" candidates online before inviting them for an interview . Therefore, carefully curating your personal image on online platforms is essential to making a good impression and increasing your chances of being selected.

• Maintain a positive and professional online image.
  Ensure that the content you share on social media reflects a positive lifestyle, attitude, and professional mindset . Negative posts, controversial content, or overly private personal photos should be restricted from view.

• Optimize your LinkedIn profile.
  LinkedIn is your “electronic professional profile” — keep it fully updated:

  • The headline should be concise and clear, for example: "Data Analyst" or "Digital Marketing Specialist" .

  • The summary (About) section should highlight your outstanding skills, achievements, and career aspirations.

  • Clearly list your experience, skills, and certifications so that employers can easily assess your capabilities.

• Regular editing and updates
  Social media profiles, especially LinkedIn, should be updated regularly as you gain new accomplishments, skills, or change jobs.

• Add contact information and a link to your CV.
  Don't forget to include a professional email address, phone number, and a link to your CV or personal portfolio so that recruiters can easily contact you.

• Consistent image quality across platforms.
  Use a professional profile picture and your real name consistently across channels like LinkedIn, Facebook, or GitHub (if you work in the tech field). This consistency helps you build a trustworthy personal brand .

Secret 3: 7 Most Effective Ways to Find Online & Offline Jobs Today

Method 1: Effectively search for jobs on online recruitment websites.

Today, most job opportunities are posted online . Knowing how to search intelligently and select reliable information will save you time and help you quickly find a suitable job.

• Start with the website of the company you want to apply to.
  If you already have a target business or organization, go directly to their official website .
  Look for the "Recruitment , " "Career Opportunities," or "Job Openings / Career Opportunities" sections to see open positions. This is the most accurate and up-to-date source of information.

• Use reputable online job search websites.
  When you want to broaden your search, use top recruitment tools such as:

  • Indeed

  • Glassdoor

  • LinkedIn Job

  • TheLadders (suitable for management and expert positions)

  • VietnamWorks , TopCV , CareerBuilder Vietnam (if you are looking for a job in Vietnam)

  Simply enter keywords related to the job (e.g., “sales”, “marketing”, “accounting” ) and your desired location (e.g., “Ho Chi Minh City”, “Hanoi”, “Da Nang” ) and you will see a list of suitable jobs.

• Here's a specific example:
  If you want to find a job as a medical equipment sales representative in Chicago , enter the keywords: “sales” , “medical” , and the area “Chicago, Illinois” .

• Take advantage of other classified ad websites.
  Craigslist or local Facebook recruitment groups can also be helpful, especially when you need a job urgently. However, always double-check company information and the employer's reputation before submitting your application.

• Carefully select information.
  Only apply to reputable job postings with clear contact information . This will help you avoid falling for fake news, scams, or fraudulent recruitment.

Method 2: Leverage social media to find jobs effectively.

Today, social media is not only a place to connect with friends , but also a powerful tool to help you find a job, expand your professional network, and reach employers faster . If used correctly, you can turn your social media account into an extremely effective "professional business card."

• Create a professional social media profile.
  If you use social media to find a job, please:

  • Switch your personal account to private mode to protect your information.

  • Create a new, professional account and only share content related to your work, skills, or personal projects.

• Use LinkedIn – the leading career platform.

  • Create a professional personal profile with a serious profile picture and a clear description of your skills and experience.

  • Upload your CV or professional summary so that recruiters can view it directly.

  • Join industry groups and interact with people in your field to expand your networking and collaboration opportunities.

• Leverage Twitter to land a job quickly.

  • Follow the companies you're interested in to stay updated on the latest job openings.

  • Use popular job search hashtags like #jobs , #jobhunt , #hiring , and #career to find job postings.

  • Interact professionally — you can comment, share, or send polite messages when you see a suitable opportunity.

• Pay attention to the content you post.
  Employers often review candidates' social media profiles, so make sure the content you share projects a positive, dynamic, and trustworthy image .

• Connect instead of waiting.
  Take the initiative to message, send connection requests, or ask about job opportunities. The right people, at the right time, can open up unexpected job opportunities .

Method 3: Utilize the government's job bank to find suitable opportunities.

Besides private recruitment websites, the State Job Bank is also a legitimate and reliable source of information to help you find a stable job that matches your qualifications and location.

• Find a local online job bank.
  Each state or province has a job website managed by the labor agency , which lists job openings in the area. This is where you can find accurate, up-to-date, and vetted information .

• Find jobs easily by keyword and location.
  Similar to popular job recruitment websites, you can enter career keywords (e.g., “accounting”, “sales”, “marketing” ) and your desired city or region to have the system suggest suitable positions.

• Advantages of using a state-run job bank

  • High reliability , as it has been verified by the labor management agency.

  • Suitable for recent graduates, general laborers, and experienced professionals alike.

  • There is support available for career counseling , guidance, and even skills training to increase your chances of getting hired.

• Utilize a combination of multiple job search sources.
  Combine your search on government job banks with sites like LinkedIn, VietnamWorks, TopCV, etc., to broaden your reach.

Method 4: Expand your professional network (Networking) to find a job more effectively.

During the job search process, networking – building and maintaining professional relationships – is one of the most important strategies to help you access potential job opportunities, sometimes even before the position is publicly announced .

• Proactively connect with people in the industry.
  Don't be afraid to speak up. You can say things naturally, for example:
  "I'm just starting my career in marketing and looking for suitable opportunities. Do you know of any companies that are hiring, or do you have any advice for me?"
  This gentle, sincere approach is often more effective than directly asking for a job.

• Leverage existing relationships.
  Start with people you already know or have worked with:

  • Former lecturers or mentors – they often have extensive networks in their field of expertise.

  • A former boss or colleague might be able to introduce you to a new opportunity.

  • People who are currently working at the company you're applying to can help you understand the company culture or give you an insider introduction.

  • Friends and acquaintances in the same professional field – sometimes just a friendly conversation can open up unexpected opportunities.

• Understanding the value of "internal referrals" (referrals)
  A recommendation from someone within the company can help your application get considered ahead of dozens of other candidates . Recruiters always trust a recommendation from someone they know more.

• Participate in events, workshops, and professional groups.
  This is the ideal place to meet professionals, recruiters, and like-minded individuals . Bring business cards, prepare a brief self-introduction, and make a professional impression.

• Maintaining the relationship after connecting.
  Express gratitude after receiving help, and provide updates on career advancements. Networking is not just about finding a job, but also about building long-term personal credibility .

Method 5: Share with family and friends that you are looking for a job.

Don't keep job hunting to yourself — your network of friends, family, and personal social connections can be your strongest support system, helping you discover opportunities you may never have known about.

• Make it clear that you are looking for a job.
  Let everyone in your circle of acquaintances—family, friends, former colleagues, neighbors—know that you are actively seeking new job opportunities .
  For example, you could say it simply and naturally:
  "I'm looking for a new job in publishing. If you know of any places that are hiring, please let me know."
  Sometimes, just a simple word like that can open up unexpected opportunities through "a friend of a friend."

• Leverage the power of word of mouth.
  Many job openings, especially at small or medium-sized companies, are not publicly posted online , but instead spread through personal connections. When you share your job search information, others may refer you directly to employers .

• Consider working with a headhunter.
  If you're looking for jobs in highly specialized fields or management positions, contacting a reputable headhunter is a wise choice. They have extensive business networks , understand recruitment needs, and can help you access "hidden" positions that haven't been publicly announced .

• Professional and positive attitude when sharing.
  No matter who you're talking to, show that you 're proactive and ready for new opportunities—not "complaining about being unemployed." Confidence and a proactive attitude always make a good impression.

Option 6: Attend job fairs to expand your career opportunities.

Job fairs are gatherings of dozens, even hundreds, of companies recruiting , offering a rare opportunity to meet employers directly, understand the real needs of the labor market, and expand your professional network .

• Find out information about the upcoming job fair.

  • Visit the city's website, job placement center, or university's website for updated lists of upcoming job fairs.

  • Some private organizations or large recruitment platforms also regularly organize specialized career fairs (e.g., technology, marketing, finance, tourism...).

• Prepare thoroughly before attending.

  • We have multiple professionally presented CV templates available , tailored to each position you're interested in.

  • Research the participating companies beforehand to be proactive in the conversation.

  • Prepare a brief self-introduction (1–2 minutes) to impress the recruiter.

• Make the most of the opportunities at the trade fair.

  • Meet with the recruiter in person and ask questions about the work environment, career development opportunities, or the skills they are looking for.

  • Gather documents, brochures, and business cards for review and contact after the event.

  • Maintain a professional, confident, and courteous attitude – first impressions are always crucial.

• Follow-up after the event
  After attending, send a thank-you email or LinkedIn message to the recruiters you spoke with, highlighting your interest in the suitable position.

Method 7: Maintain discipline and good organization during the job search process.

A clear and systematic job search plan will save you time, prevent you from missing opportunities, and help you maintain a proactive attitude. Instead of applying indiscriminately, work strategically and track your progress daily .

• Create a detailed job search plan.
  First, define your career goals , the field you want to pursue, and the position you aspire to. Then, develop a clear action plan to gradually move closer to those goals.

• Avoid submitting duplicate applications.
  Many candidates, in their haste, apply for the same position multiple times , making recruiters perceive them as unprofessional. Keep a record of the companies, positions, and application dates to better manage the application process.

• Create a work schedule or job search checklist.
  A daily or weekly job search schedule helps you stay motivated and avoid getting lost. You can allocate time for the following activities:

  • Search for jobs online on reputable recruitment websites.

  • Networking involves maintaining and connecting with others within a professional network.

  • Update and edit your CV and cover letter to suit each position.

  • Set specific goals , for example, submit 3–5 applications per week.

• Monitor results and adjust strategy.
  Record feedback from recruiters or interview results to learn from them and gradually improve your application skills .

Staying organized, persistent, and having a plan are ways to make the job search process more efficient and less stressful .

References

1. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-read-job-description-make-effective-/
2. https://www.forbes.com/sites/susanadams/2012/01/24/how-to-make-them-respond-when-you-apply-for-a-job-online/#b175014471fb
3. https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2012/07/11/the-9-best-tips-for-submitting-an-online-job-application
4. https://www.job-hunt.org/think-like-hiring-managers/
5. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/follow-up-email-examples-after-interview
6. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/match-resume-with-job-description
7. https://www.blinn.edu/writing-centers/pdfs/Writing-Job-Application-Letters.pdf
8. https://hbr.org/2022/05/how-to-write-a-cover-letter-that-sounds-like-you-and-gets-noticed
9. https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurashin/2014/10/20/how-to-create-the-ideal-linkedin-profile/#3aaf0834e4fb
10. https://www.careeronestop.org/JobSearch/FindJobs/find-jobs.aspx?lang=en&frd=true
11. https://www.helpguide.org/wellness/career/job-networking-tips
12. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-prepare-for-a-job-fair
13. https://www.careeronestop.org/JobSearch/Plan/create-a-job-search-plan.aspx?lang=en&frd=true

Translated by Ashley Wright Nguyen .