You may be looking for a full-time job for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you do not enjoy your current job or are entering the full-time workforce as a previous student, homemaker or part-time employee. You may be one of the many people affected by job losses and are looking for a full-time job after a layoff. Finding a full-time job takes dedication, planning and research. Use your time wisely to find the job that will meet your financial and personal goals.
Step 1
Network with friends, acquaintances and former coworkers. Write down the names of all the people in your personal network and begin calling each person. Explain why you are looking for a job and what type of job you are interested in, and ask if they know of an opening. Be flexible in your choice of positions. Make a note of any openings, the person who told you about the job and company contact information. Ask your friend or acquaintance to take your resume and cover letter to the hiring supervisor.
Step 2
Search job boards and online career sites. Use keywords, location and salary filters to narrow your options. Look outside your field for more options. If you have worked in a medical office, consider hospitals, clinics and home health care positions. If you are familiar with accounting procedures, search beyond the financial field. Do not limit your search to one region. When you find jobs that interest you, send your prepared resume electronically or through the mail.
Step 3
Send your resume and letter of interest to businesses that employ people with your skills. Search the Internet or call the company headquarters to obtain the name and title of the person you should contact. Write a compelling cover letter detailing your desire to work for the company and your relevant experience. End the letter with the promise to call the person as a follow-up to your letter.
Step 4
Attend job fairs and bring copies of your resume. When looking for a full-time job, flexibility is important. Ask the representative questions about the nature of the jobs the company is hiring for, where the jobs are located and how the interview process works. Leave your resume with the representative, and fill out contact information forms.
Step 5
Make a list of employers in your field. Using the Internet, visit the website of each business on your list. This is different than searching on a job board. Many large companies and government agencies do not advertise on the job boards, but instead post job openings on their websites. Large companies often take resumes directly through their website.
Step 6
Hire a search firm to assist you. Search firms may be helpful if your field is specialized or if you are seeking a high-level executive job. Research the firm's fees and level of commitment to you, and ask for references. Even if you sign up with a firm, continue looking for a job on your own.
Tips and Warnings
- If you are unemployed, spend several hours every day searching for a job. Always send a follow-up thank-you letter for any interviews you do. Practice your interviewing skills before an interview. Be willing to relocate or commute. Consider going back to school and obtaining new skills. Do volunteer work in a field that interests you.
- Verify the accuracy of your resume and employment dates. Check references before you pay a company or individual to help you in your search.
References
- USAToday: Today's Job Seekers Add 'Social' to Networking
- The Riley Guide: How to use the Internet in Your Job Search
- Connecticut Department of Labor: Tips for Job Seekers: How to Write a Great Cover Letter
- Career Services at Virginia Tech: Career Fairs & Job Fairs
- University of Pennsylvania: Recruiters and Search Firms: Guidelines for Using Them
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