Job Search
How do I start a successful Job search?
Thankfully today, conducting a job search is a relatively simple process and that is largely due to the profusion of media in every sphere. Bear in mind, finding a new job is now your full time occupation and should be treated as one. You will need to keep a diary and keep disciplined. You need to create a plan, so that you have a successful job search, otherwise much time can be wasted and lead to frustration and despondency.
Visit your local state department for employment as they offer many useful resources including assistance with creating your resume.
Plan your job search.
Although you are not officially working, treat each day of your job search like a full time job, this will bring the rewards you so avidly seek. Create a structure to your day, and plan to spend a number of hours on line; time spent reading the local press, time talking to ex colleagues and friends, and time allotted to new networking avenues. Let us help you with tips to find a job by networking.
Lists bring results.
Creating a list the night before of what you plan to do the next day, will keep your mind focused and offers goals that have to be met. Revise the Job Search list in the morning, and set to work on checking each item as you work through the day.
Internet job search is the first step.
Allot time each day to performing an online job search. Find job boards that are specific to your industry and subscribe to these, this will provide you with new opportunities each day directly to your mail box, saving you time. Don’t waste too much time in forums although the backup and support from others is mentally rewarding and comforting, be disciplined. Try to tailor your search using keywords that flag your industry and your goals. Read our article on job sites: Are they the answer?
Revise your resume.
This is very important, seek advice on the structure, layout and content of your resume and make sure this is meeting or superseding the expectations of potential employers. Create covering letters and have these checked. Post your resume to job sites, and keep on posting, this is a numbers game the more your name and qualifications are out there, the better chance you have at succeeding in your Job Search.
An offline Job search is a secondary approach.
Read your local press; look through every publication you can get your hands on. Visit your local newsagent and check out publications that align to your profession. These publications very often list openings. Consider placing your own add in a target publication. Place wanted Ads within community centers and high traffic areas.
Call a family meeting.
Make sure everyone knows you are looking for a job, speak to neighbors, ex colleagues and broaden your networking reach by joining a local group. Offer to do some voluntary work as this leads to new contacts, boosts your confidence, and adds value to your resume.
Contact all local employment agencies and headhunters.
Make time to visit all employment agencies and recruiters, dress smartly and present your resume, make an impression. Take note your initiative places you above the average during your Job Search, a candid conversation with these professionals offers you information on the current market and invaluable advice.
Earmark local companies.
Identify local companies you would like to work for, make an appointment to meet with the HR department and provide them with a copy of your resume. Sell yourself, demonstrate how you may add value to their company, tell them why you are unique, at least you will be remembered should an opportunity arise.
Job searches made easy at job fairs.
Job fairs are like a little piece of heaven for those conducting a job search. What could be better than a collection of recruiters under one roof, makes the task of finding a job a lot easier as well as time spent with others in a similar position that offer advice, assistance and valuable experience.
State departments are a must.
Visit your local state department for employment as they offer many useful resources including assistance with creating your resume, suggesting avenues of research, career counseling and sessions on updating your skills throughout your Job Search.
Consider freelancing.
Offer your professional services on a freelance basis, as this provides an opportunity to introduce yourself to local employers and may result in the end of your job search. Freelancing adds to your experience and increases your network of contacts.
How do I raise my profile on social networks?
In order to raise your profile on social networks some stringent housekeeping is the order of the day. Tidy up your Facebook status; make sure there are no unprofessional images or reported incidents. Employers don’t want to know about your wild parties. Post your resume and professional profile to such places as Linked-In and My Space. Connect with other professionals in your industry. Start and learn a twitter account, make sure to keep it up to date during the Job Search, quickly learn about all the social networks as this demonstrates your ability to keep current with new trends. Start a blog, concentrate on your profession, start a discussion relating to your profession providing you with the ability to know your subject well.
Covering all of the above avenues should increase your networks and bring a multitude of possibilities within a short period. Be persistent and maintain discipline, this is your new job - conducting a Job search.
Job Search techniques including online job search databases, job search via social networking as well as job fairs that are key to the job search process.