Getting job techniques tips

Getting job techniques tips

In today’s job market, searching for a job can be frustrating and disheartening. With many job seekers experiencing lengthy periods of unemployment, it can be easy to become discouraged and give up hope of obtaining an interview, much less being hired. However, making use of a variety of job search techniques can tremendously improve the odds of getting call backs.

1. Direct Contact
When searching for a job, it is crucial to remember that not all positions are advertised. Companies may limit publicity surrounding an opening for a variety of reasons. Some companies may want to avoid an overwhelming response, while others simply may not have access to funding to advertise the position.

Begin this job search technique by compiling a list of local companies and organizations with which employment is desired. Once the list has been composed, begin making cold calls. When the receptionist asks how to direct your call, request human resources or the manager of the specific department sought.

There is a good probability that your call will be forwarded to the proper person. Still, many of the appropriate contacts within companies may not take unsolicited phone calls. Therefore, this job search technique requires thick skin and an aloof perspective of rejection. However, as with most worthwhile opportunities, contacting companies directly may have a great payoff. Searching for a job in this manner offers less competition for the position, since few, if any, applicants are aware of its availability.

2. Social Networking
Sites like Facebook, MySpace and Twitter may seem like a mere way to pass time and identify with family and friends. Yet more and more companies are utilizing these networks as a means of reaching customers and potential employees. Additionally, ecademy and LinkedIn cater specifically to employment related subject matter, with features including resume posts, job searches and even groups associated with specific industries and companies, these social network sites are a must for anyone seeking employment. To find a job by networking as a job search technique is one of the most widely regarded methods in today’s job market.

3. Online Job Sites
With the advent of the internet, online job sites like Monster, CareerBuilder and SnagaJob.com have become a mainstream staple in the world of job hunting. These sites and the tools subsequently offered by them, allow users to take advantage of countless benefits, including visibility to potential employers, resume help services and articles on everything from interview questions etiquette to what items to eliminate from your resume or cover letter.

4. Employment Agencies and Temp Services
Once considered the gold standard for job seekers, these services are still considered to be a valuable asset. Many companies still prefer the personal attention they receive from employment agencies versus online job posting sites. Additionally, since the screening process through an employment agency is more thorough, an applicant who uses these types of organizations as one of his job search techniques may be regarded as a higher quality, lower risk candidate.

5. Newspaper Classifieds
Though one of the oldest job search techniques, the newspaper classifieds are, even now a significant source of employment prospects. Classified ads are generally updated on Sundays to reach an optimal number of readers. Thus it is the best day to review the newspaper classifieds.

6. Government Agencies
With unemployment at its highest percentage in decades, many state and local governments have begun to offer provisions for job seekers. These offerings include free or low cost education, free access to technology such as computers and fax machines and volunteers to assist with everything from email setup to resume and cover letter writing. To obtain a complete list of resources available in your area, contact a Career One Stop near you.

7. Internships and Volunteer Work
While the primary goal of a job search is to gain a paycheck, applying for an internship or volunteer position may be a great way to launch a lucrative career path. These types of positions, while unpaid, offer experience and knowledge that can give you a considerable advantage over other candidates. Not to mention that job offers are often extended as a result of impressive efforts.

8. Friends and Family
No, this is not a reference to nepotism. However, many times friends or family members may be aware of a position that is currently open or expected to be available soon. Casually mentioning to them that you are searching may spark the memory that they know where you can look next.

9. Prior Associates
Most job seekers would not consider contacting former colleagues or clients on of their job search techniques. Yet, in many fields, networking is an essential part of daily operations. Accordingly, some associates often become good allies. Perhaps a former client or coworker has knowledge about jobs with an emerging or competing company. It never hurts to ask.

10. Digital Resume
Of course a CV or resume is a critical component to every job seeker’s repertoire. Still in today’s complex world, the supplement of a digital resume can help demonstrate your ability to skillfully employ technology in everyday life. Stating technical proficiency on an application or resume is a common practice for most job seekers, but few are able to exhibit this prior to being hired. Having a personal web address devoted to your resume writing can give you a major edge over your competition.