The internet has made it easier than ever for people to find and apply for advertised jobs. At the same time, the unstable economy means that more applicants are competing for every position. You can improve your chances of getting the kind of work you want both by taking advantage of computer technology and by making yourself stand out in the crowd. Here are some practical tips on how to find a new job.
Make job hunting a priority and set aside a certain amount of time to devote to it. If you’re currently employed, this might be one evening a week. If you’re unemployed, it might be every morning. Perform an online job search and, if you find anything suitable, apply for it right away. If you don’t find a position to apply for, use the time for social networking or updating your resume.
Instead of searching for positions on a particular job site, use a job search engine. These online tools allow you to see jobs listed on several job sites as well as company and newspaper sites. For the most useful results, narrow your search to bring up jobs that fit your skills, experience and location. Many job search engines have additional facilities such as resume posting, networking forums or job alerts.
Use social networking sites to advertise your talents and accomplishments and to let others know what sort of work you are interested in. The more people you are connected to, the greater the chance that someone can help you get a good job. Maintain links with classmates, co-workers and distant relatives. Establish new contacts with people who work in your industry.
If you’re applying for more than one type of job, don’t send out the same resume with every application. Employers need to be able to quickly assess your qualifications for the advertised position. Training, skills and experience most relevant to the post should appear near the top of the page. Less relevant information should go in a separate section.
You can boost your career prospects by getting involved with a local community group or a national non-profit association. Volunteering is a way to gain new skills and experience while expanding your social network. It could even lead to a paid position in a charity organization.
If jobs are scarce in your field, consider retraining in sector where there is a growing demand for qualified employees. One example is the health care industry, which struggles to keep up with the needs of an aging population. There is often financial aid available for certification courses that can lead to employment.
One of the top tips on how to find a new job is to start your own business and employ yourself. The possibilities are endless for anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit. If you’re a skilled handyman or gardener, you could offer your services to friends and neighbours and use their recommendations to build your business. If you have sales and marketing skills you could launch an online shop. If you’re at home with small children, you could provide childcare for working parents.