Whether you are studying or working, one day you will have to look for work. The job search techniques have changed and you must adapt to the expectations of decision-makers.
Has it ever happened to you that after submitting your resume nobody answered? Did you ever wonder if there were positions available at certain companies? If you answered yes to one of these questions you would better reconsider your job search techniques.
Job search techniques are changing rapidly and you must be on the look-out. If you are unsuccessful it is time for you to update your techniques in order to find a job rapidly.
Job hunting is a full-time job which requires commitment and determination. You must persevere, search every day and get to know yourself. In order to present your competencies to employers you must know yourself very well on a personal and professional level.
If you have difficulty to identify your professional qualities and strong points do not hesitate to consult your friends, colleagues or former colleagues, your relatives or the evaluation from previous employers to help you in this process. It is essential to know your interests, aptitudes, qualities, strengths and weaknesses as well as to have a good self-esteem and be confident in your personal and professional abilities. Finally, you must identify a clear and realistic job objective. This preparation will help you answer typical interview questions such as “Tell me about yourself?” or “What are your strengths and weaknesses?.
Job search is not an easy task, so it is important to adapt to changes and particularly to modify your negative opinion about job searching. A job seeker is not begging for a job, he/she is offering his/her services. You must stop saying that there are no jobs available and instead apply the effective method to find one.
In order to distinguish yourself from the other job seekers and be well-prepared you must do comprehensive research and use all the essential tools. To do so, you must prepare a good resume, identify the employers in both the visible and hidden job markets, write cover and thank-you letters, visit companies to hand in your resume , prepare for interviews, find information on companies and do a follow-up.
Whenever you answer job offers in newspapers and sending a resume by fax or by mail do not wait for the employers to call back. Take the initiative of following up, this way you stay in control of your job search. Revise and modify your techniques. Look for work in the hidden job market i.e jobs not posted in the newspapers, on the Internet, in shop windows or job banks.
Due to the cost of advertising and publicity 80% of the jobs available are not advertised. Furthermore, some employers prefer to hire candidates from their own bank of candidates, or they consult with their network or employees. In order to target the hidden job market, you must look into specialized directories, in the Yellow Pages, inform people around you that you are available and also directly contact employers directly whom you would like to work for.
Looking for work requires a full time structured method. Put better chances on your side. Update your resume, take control of your job search and be positive and persevering. Your efforts will be rewarded by finding a job that suits you.