A job search can be a frustrating and stressful experience at times. It takes patience, focus and attention to detail to land the right job for you. In modern times, the Internet has allowed people to conduct a job search on a nationwide and even international basis. While this broadens your options to look for jobs, it also means more competition for the right job, and you should put great effort into a job application.
Apply
Spread you net wide when you are searching for a job. Focus your job application to a field or area you have expertise and a strong desire to work in. Use local newspapers, Internet search engines and spread the word around your network of friends that you are looking for jobs in your field. In the opening stage of a job search, send as many applications away as possible.
Speculate
Send speculative letters and resumes to places you would like to work. For example if you are a journalist, write to the local newspapers with your resume and inform them of your desire for employment. While a paid position may not exist, you could get an internship or a valuable contact from making the effort.
Cover Letter and Resume
Invest time and effort into your cover letter and resume. This is the first impression you make on a potential employer, and if they do not catch their attention your application could be eliminated immediately. University of Texas Career Director Katharine Brooks explains that "I can easily eliminate 80 percent of candidates for positions in my office due to poorly written cover letters and resume." Services are available to help you produce a professional cover letter and resume.
References
Obtain positive references about your performance in the field from a previous employer. If this is your first job search, use former mentors or college professors. All potential employers are likely to need positive references before your job application is finalized.
Follow Up
Follow up after approximately two weeks if you hear nothing after an application. You may not get an answer, but it can show initiative to give a polite phone call to check the status of your application. You may be able to get an estimated date for an interview.
Research
Research the position you are applying for. If you are lucky enough to get an interview, you must display immediately to a potential employer that you would be a capable employee. Rather than going in as a new guy who would need to learn the ropes, learn all you can about the company. Mention in the interview what you know, and think of questions to ask about your position and what will be expected of you.
Be Positive
Adopt an upbeat attitude and positive mentality, envision that you will succeed in your job application. Brookes explains that you must avoid making a job search more stressful by distorted thinking. "Being kind to yourself is one of the most important gifts you can receive."
Member Comments