Job Hunting – A Systematic Approach…

Whether you are looking for a job OR just want to change the job you currently have, having a positive attitude and taking a systematic approach can make all the difference.

Finding a J.O.B.
Face it; finding THE perfect job is not an easy task, especially with many companies considering cutting back and doing more with less.
While there are jobs to out there; it helps to know where to look for them.
Here is a List of Several Ways to Get Into Action:

1. Check out the classified ads in the local newspaper. While they say newspapers are a dying breed of communication, this can still be a top way for employers to get word out that they are hiring.

The only difference between now and the past is that most employers prefer that you fax or email your resume into them rather than showing up to fill out an application in person. This provides that “sneak peak” at potential staff members and then they get to spend time only with the ones they are most interested in.

2. Of course, the Internet offers virtual classified ads on jobs all over the world. These days, companies prefer to post their open positions on the Internet so that they can reach many more people than they would by advertising in the newspaper. Most of the internet posted jobs allow you to fill out the application online and send in your resume and any letters of recommendation as well. In some cases, online aptitude tests are available to confirm that you have the skills they are looking for.

3. References from friends and professional co-workers definitely provide a service that can help you get your foot in the door. Because some organizations offer a referral program for their current employees, providing them with some kind of bonus if they help fill open positions, you could be doing a friend a favor by applying. Generally speaking, everybody wins with this sort of hire.

4. While it is pretty old fashioned, the next method has been known to work. Just showing up, in person, definitely has its perks. By being there when their doors open, first thing in the morning, you can demonstrate your determination, AND the fact that you can be professional and punctual. This could be a great opportunity to make a great first impression so you should definitely dress for success and brush up on your knowledge of the company, what they offer and be clear about what you will bring to the mix as a new employee.

5. Finally, temporary employment agencies can assist you in getting into companies that who never seem to have an opening. More and more organizations are going with temp agencies to do first level screening to filter out unwanted candidates. Some companies do their hiring exclusively through temporary agencies. While many people avoid temp agencies, thinking that their only jobs are temporary; that is definitely not the case. They offer temporary, permanent and contract jobs. You can actually be a full time employee with an agency, as they frequently will offer you benefits and full time work filling in at various companies for short-term jobs.

It can be helpful to recognize that looking for a job may not be as daunting as you may first think. Sometimes it is just a matter of being open to possibilities AND knowing where to look. By checking out a few of the suggestions above, you may find that you’ll get your foot in the door with a promising job, in less time than you think.

Direct, short and accomplishment-centered resumes will also help. Stay in action and don’t let discouragement get a foothold. That can be the jobseeker’s biggest distraction.

Finally, consider a coach! That’s right, sometimes having an extra pair of shoulders to lean on when times are tough can make all the difference in the world. If there is someone in your life who you can turn to for encouragement and support, do that. If you know someone who has successfully negotiated the job search environment successfully, give them a call. And, if no one you currently know comes to mind, feel from to contact a competent consulting or coaching company who can give you some sound advice as to how to take your job search to the next level.

Bottom line is…Stick with it, avoid discouragement and never give up! You can do it and there really are lots of resources out there to support your efforts.

Author: Lee Follender, Sr. Coach & Consultant
AWARE Consulting Services, LLC
www.awareconsultingservices.com
For information, call 512-553-2927