1. Polish Your GitHub Profile Before Anything Else
In 2026, recruiters check GitHub before they read your CV. Make sure your pinned repositories showcase real, finished projects — not just tutorial clones. Write clear README files, add screenshots, and explain what problem each project solves.
2. Tailor Your CV to Every Application
Generic CVs get filtered out in seconds. Read the job description carefully and mirror its language. If they say "scalable APIs", make sure your CV says "scalable APIs" — not just "REST services". ATS filters reward keyword matching.
3. Build a Portfolio With Real Problems
Side projects that solve actual problems — a local grocery delivery app, a school management system, a freelance invoicing tool — tell a much better story than "Build a To-Do App". Real problems have edge cases, and handling them shows maturity.
4. Get Certified in Cloud or DevOps
AWS, Azure, and GCP certifications consistently appear in the top 10 most in-demand skills on JOBNT. Even an entry-level AWS Cloud Practitioner certification can differentiate you from 200 other applicants.
5. Network Actively on LinkedIn
Sixty percent of IT jobs in South Asia are filled through referrals. Connect with alumni, contribute to developer groups, and comment thoughtfully on posts by CTOs at companies you want to join. Visibility creates luck.
6. Practice System Design Early
Mid to senior roles almost always include a system design round. Practice designing URL shorteners, notification services, and job portals (yes, like JOBNT). Draw diagrams, discuss trade-offs, and be comfortable talking about load balancers and databases.
7. Write and Publish Technical Content
A blog post explaining how you solved a tricky Laravel query or a YouTube video walking through a React hook does two things: it reinforces your own knowledge and it builds a public reputation. Hiring managers notice.
8. Apply Early and Follow Up
On JOBNT, the highest-quality candidates often apply within the first 48 hours of a listing going live. Set up job alerts for your target roles and apply promptly. Following up with a short, professional email three to five days after applying shows initiative.
9. Prepare Behavioural Stories
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to prepare stories for common questions like "Tell me about a time you disagreed with a technical decision" or "Describe a project that failed and what you learned". Practise out loud.
10. Negotiate Your Offer
Most candidates accept the first number offered. Most companies expect negotiation. Research market rates using JOBNT's salary reports, present a specific number rather than a range, and back it up with your value. The worst answer is always no.
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1 Comment
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SBookmarked for my next job search.