Great Job Hunting Tips
Searching for a new job is a process that can require patience, perseverance, creativity and more than a little bit of luck. There is no replacement for hard work in searching out and applying for jobs for which you're qualified. But talking to as many people about your job search as possible is one of many job hunting strategies that can be enjoyable as well as productive and can help you keep your stress levels down during your search.
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Basics
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Defining what kind of job you want is key to your job search. That's because without a goal, you may find it difficult to feel in control of your search, and you may also find it difficult to talk about your search with other people. Think about roles as well as sectors that match your skills, personality and experience, and don't worry about being too narrow. For example, you might be an exceptional teacher. Thus, your job hunting goal could be to find a job where you role is to help others learn, and where you work in the private sector to help you apply your prior experience in the private sector.
Research
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Once you have a large target to set your sights on, do your research in print and online publications related to the industry or sector you are interested in. If you feel you would be suited to be a restaurant manager, for example, you might look for articles in your local or regional paper on how the restaurant business is going, keeping an eye out for names of successful companies or chains and what factors have been a factor in their success. Doing this background research will help you understand the path to take in your hunt; successful companies are hiring, struggling ones aren't.
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Network
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Talking to friends and family about your search is important. Your friends and family know you and like you, so chances are if they know of anything related to your desired profession they will be happy to help you. If you struggle with asking people for "help," keep in mind that almost everyone knows how tough looking for a job is. Call or set coffee dates with your personal network; anyone from a former teammate to a church choir acquaintance to your sister's hairdresser is worth telling about your search. Map out all your friends and family and identify those who might have particularly useful knowledge or contacts on the sector you're interested in, and prioritize talking to these people first.
Be a Star
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In a tough job market, thinking of yourself as a great catch isn't enough. You have to be a great catch. Your cover letters and resume should be flawless, you should follow up punctually to any contact human resources representatives have with you; convey exceptional interest in the job and exceptional conviction that you're the perfect person for it. Be your own best advocate, and in doing so, you'll show the selection committee that you'll make a great advocate for your prospective employer, too.
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References
- Photo Credit magnifying glass 3 image by Psycience from Fotolia.com
