Ten Tips for Effective Job Searching
It's always important to make sure you have covered
all the bases when you are in the midst of a job search. Sometimes
we get so focused on one aspect of seeking employment, like sending
out resumes, for example, that we forget to make sure that everything
we do is professional, focused and appropriate. Review these ten
tips to make sure your job search is on the right track.
Ten Tips for
Effective Job Searching
First Impressions
Looking, speaking and acting professionally help to make a
terrific first impression. Tory
Johnson, Women for Hire
Follow-Up
Don't be afraid to follow-up. I hired a Customer Manager over a
year after he first sent me his resume. I didn't even need to
advertise when the position became available. In addition to
sending me his resume, John had called me every month or so to
touch base, and even stopped in my office (through the back door
not through the receptionist!) just to say hello.
Needless to say I remembered him when a position
opened up. And he was extremely qualified for the position, which
is why I remembered him.
Interviewing
Be on time for the interview. On time means five to ten minutes
early. If need be, take some time to drive to the office ahead
of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it
will take to get there.
Job Fairs
Periodically attend these events even when you are not
necessarily looking for a job to see what opportunities are out
there, and to gain a perspective on where you fit in the job
marketplace. Tracey Miner, The
Mulitcultural Advantage
Keep Track
I have found that one of the most useful things I started doing
was to keep track of everything I am doing. I use a simple
spreadsheet, like Excel. And I do mean everything. I have one
file where I enter all the information from any job sites that I
join. Information such as the username and password I created,
what type of job site is it - freelance or regular or
specialty. Tracey Pederson, Jill of Trades
Meaningful Work
Explore your passion, identify a new direction, and take action
to create a career that leaves you energized and excited. Curt
Rosengren,Passion Catalyst
Say Thank You
Try to send your thank-you note within 24-48 hours of your
interview or meeting. The note may be handwritten on a small,
professional, thank-you note card (if you have extremely neat
handwriting and only a brief message to convey), word-processed,
or emailed.
Stay On Top of the News
Be aware of the lastest business news in your community or the
city where you want to work. Read local business journals to
find out who's on top in your industry. Review the Business
section of your local newspaper, as well. These resources will
give you a sense of which employers are "hot" as well as often
contact information to send your resume.
Your Resume
Write it until it's right. Think, write, think some more,
rewrite, proofread, get feedback and rewrite.
Joyce Lain Kennedy, Career Author
Don't Give Up
Last, but not least, don't give up. Job searching is never easy
and it's even harder when the job market is difficult. Keep
plugging away at your job search and eventually, though it may
take more time that you expected, the right position will come
along. |
