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How to land a better job this year

A better job usually comes from being specific: which role, which pay, which companies. Vague searching burns people out. Pick a target, make your resume match it, and talk to real people.

Start this week

Your first 3 steps

  1. 1

    Write the job title you want and the pay you're aiming for

    10 min · Done when: One job title and one pay number

    A clear target lets you filter listings in seconds and tailor your resume once instead of every time.

  2. 2

    Find 5 real listings for that job and highlight the skills that repeat

    20 min · Done when: A list of the top 5 repeated skills

    Repeated skills are what hiring managers screen for. Your resume should use the same words.

  3. 3

    Update the top third of your resume to match those skills

    30 min · Done when: Your resume's summary and first job match the target

    Recruiters often skim just the top of a resume. That's where the match has to show.

Pursivon reminds you each morning and builds the rest of your plan.

Your first 4 weeks

  1. Week 1

    Pick your target role and update your resume to match it.

  2. Week 2

    Apply to 5 good-fit jobs and message one person who works at a company you like.

  3. Week 3

    Practice two stories: a problem you solved and a time you learned something fast.

  4. Week 4

    Keep applying weekly and follow up on every application after about a week.

Mistakes that stop most people

  • Sending the same generic resume to every job.
  • Only applying online. Referrals and messages to real people get far more replies.
  • Quitting your current job before you have an offer.

Get steps for your situation

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Common questions

How many jobs should I apply to?

Quality beats volume for better jobs. 5-10 well-matched applications a week, plus reaching out to people, is a solid pace.

How do I ask for more money?

Look up the typical pay range for the role in your area, then ask for a number near the top of that range and explain what you bring.

Should I get a certificate first?

Only if the listings you want keep asking for it. Otherwise, projects and experience usually matter more.

More guides

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