Job Search Strategies and Tips

1) Have a clear job objective.

Know what you are interested in and where you would like to work.

Ask yourself these questions:
• What kind of work really interests me?
• What kinds of articles and books do I read?
• What subjects have I enjoyed or focused on in school?
• What type of job would match my education?
• What topics do I enjoy discussing with my friends?
  Focus on 1 position and 1 target industry. However, be open to other alternatives. This is essential in case you don't get the position you initially chose. (Only 1 job is offered for every 1,470 résumés sent.)

2) Know your skills.

You won't be able to sell your strong points to a potential employer unless you know them yourself.
• Identify your strengths and abilities – your selling points.
• Identify how you would be an asset for a particular company.
• Write down 10 things you do best.
• Make a list of assignments or projects that really excite you.
  This will help you identify your special qualities.

3) Know where and how to look for job openings.

Even the smartest people often may be terrible job hunters. The secret is knowing what you are up against and knowing who can help you acquire that perfect position. Don't focus all your attention and efforts on the want ads: up to 80% of jobs are not advertised. The keys are to be selective in what you choose to apply for, and to customize your résumé and cover letter. In your résumé, prioritize your qualifications to match the position you are applying for.

There are numerous places you can search for those special openings which interest you.

• Advertisements in newspapers and other publications
• Information from friends and personal contacts
• Employment services
• Direct contact with organizations
• The Internet
• Municipal, provincial, and federal governments
• Unions and professional associations
  Remember: do not to focus on any 1 source; focus on the positions out there.

4) Write a strong résumé.

Your résumé is a promotional tool. You should devote many hours to creating it.

But it is not the résumé that gets you a job. You are the only one who can get yourself a job. So make sure not to over-emphasize a simple piece of paper.

5) Develop a network.

Your best chance of getting a job is to have someone recommend you. Talk to everyone you know who may be able to help you. The higher up the ladder, the better.

6) Ask for help.

There are many agencies and organizations which are willing to offer valuable help in accessing the hidden job market and finding a job. Just ask!

Additional tips

• Spend at least 25 hours a week looking for work.
  Make your job search your job.
• Prepare well to do well in interviews.
• Follow up on all contacts.
• The best time to get hold of people is first thing in the morning.
• You must have a contact phone number on your résumé.
• Be sure you have an answering machine, voice mail, or someone to take your messages at all times.
• Get dressed for work everyday. This will help you focus on job hunting and perk up your self esteem.
• You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Pay close attention to detail: résumés and cover letters should be proof-read and checked for grammatical and spelling errors.

To submit questions, comments, or suggestions please click here.

Last Modified: 07/17/2006 01:08:16 PM