Hunting for a Job

The secret to hunting for a job is to network! Research shows that only 20% of all jobs get advertised in newspapers or online job recruitment websites. Networking is the art of building alliances. By tapping into this “hidden job market” you will make your next job search easier. While much focus in job-hunting is placed on networking techniques, resume-writing, and interview preparation and rightly so one small, but very important aspect of successful job-seekers is often overlooked.

When you begin your job search, think of all the people you know relatives, friends, professors, classmates, and co-workers. You should make an effort to meet these people and ask them for their advice and take the opportunity to let them know that you are currently in the market for a job. A lot of jobs don’t get advertised because most can be filled by recommendations from existing employees, so don’t be shy of letting everyone know about the kind of role you’re after.

Direct contact (by telephone, or in person), this job-hunting method requires you to contact the employer who has the power to hire you. Remember if you decide to go via this route, you will need to provide evidence of how you will be an asset to the company.

In today’s fast-paced world, Internet is an excellent place to find employment information. When you are ready to research specific companies, agencies or organizations, it is essential to check out their websites. Every major company should have a website with information about their long-term goals and employment practices. If they don’t have one, or it seems poorly maintained, keep that in mind when making employment decisions. Employment websites are the ultimate way of searching for jobs online. Most have alert features; where-by a job description fitting your ideal job can be emailed to you directly. You can also upload your resume and cover letters so that prospective employers can view them.

Recruitment agencies are similar to employment websites, however with recruitment agencies you usually work closer with the recruiter. There are literally hundreds of recruitment agencies in your country. You need to register with the recruitment agency of your choice. Once you have registered they will contact you if they feel you are suitable for a particular job.

An important step of job hunting involves having a great resume. This is the root channel, which establishes the first and most impressionable connection with an employer. Thus, be very careful while you are making your resume.

If you would normally send out 5 resumes a day, start sending out 10 or even 20. Don't be picky with the companies you choose. Get in as many interviews as you can now, and be pick with the ‘offers’ later. If a job listing has a both a contact phone number and email address, pick up the phone and call them. It is far too easy for an email to be filed away for later.

Once you begin interviewing, be sure prepare yourself for each meeting. Interviewers are impressed by confident individual’s who show strong communication skills and eagerness for the position. When in doubt, always wear a suit and tie to the interview. Mention a willingness to work in groups but the ability to carry your own weight. Research the company's website before the interview, and if you are able to slip in a few facts during the interview it will score you extra points. Remember the more you interview, the better you will get at it. This is particularly true because most interviewers ask the exact same questions. Soon enough, the answers will flow out of your mouth before you even hear the whole question.

Anyone can get a job when the market is booming, but those who prevail in tough times like these show true character and spirit.