Finding a
job can be hard and stressful in a challenging economic environment. It can be
particularly difficult for new graduates, recent immigrants, or someone looking
to change careers.
Here are
some tips that can help you in finding a job.
Resume
When you
start your job search you need to update your resume to include your most
recent job. You can use a coach or professional resume writer to assist you
with the format and making improvements. Resume writers will know what
recruiters are looking for and how to make your resume appear more desirable to
them. However, you should always have an up-to-date resume in preparation of an
unexpected job opportunity coming along.
Interview Skills
Updating
your interview skills is needed in order to make a good impression and to get
the job you desire. First, you need to make a list of both the common and the unusual
interview questions. Afterwards you need to plan out your answers, and find
someone to do a mock interview with to practice your answers out loud. You
should do multiple mock interviews to help you get more comfortable with the
process. For an interview you should always be early, presentable, give a firm
handshake, eye contact, and cut back on the amount of times you say umm.
Thank You Letters
After an
interview you should always send a thank you letter. This can increase your
chances of being remembered by the interviewer and getting the job. This can
also increase your chances of having the interviewer respond to let you know if
the position has already been filled.
Social Media
Using
social media to assist in your job search has become essential in today’s
labour market. The more commonly used sites are Linkedin, Facebook, and
Twitter. If you don’t already have a profile, you should create one on all of
these sites and any others that you feel will assist you in your job search. If
you already have a profile, you should update your online resume, change your
status to looking for a job, and start tweeting. Personal branding can
dramatically improve your chances of getting a job.
Networking
Networking
is important for meeting new people, getting the word out that you are looking
for a job, and ultimately getting the job. Networking can be done through
social media, emailing or calling people that you know, going to networking
events, and making new contacts. Making connections with people that may be
able to help you in your job search can allow you to get referrals and to tap
into the hidden job market. Networking is important to do continuously and not
just when you are looking for a job.
Focus your Job Search
Before
you start your job search you need to narrow down what kind of job you are
looking for by focusing your job search. This may be more difficult for new
graduates or for individuals who want to make a career change. Research can be
done on different fields and positions that you are interested in.
Career Centers
If you
are a new graduate, a recent immigrant, or changing careers, going to a career
center can be beneficial. They can help you in writing your resume, improving
your skills, and making sure that you are on the right track in your career.
They can give you valuable insight and guidance into finding that perfect job.
Job Boards
In order
to find the right job you need to use multiple job boards in your job search.
All job boards will have an assortment of different jobs. Many job boards will
also allow you to upload your resume to an internal database that employers can
view.
Recruiting Firms
Using
multiple recruiting firms can help you in your job search. Recruiting firms
specialize in matching the right candidate with the right employer. They will
also have valuable insight into how the labour market is doing and the types of
jobs that are out there.
Job Fairs
Going to
multiple job fairs can increase your chances of getting a job. Make sure to go
to job fairs that offer the types of jobs that you are looking for. Before
going to a job fair you need to make sure that you are prepared by learning
what exhibitors will be attending, and the types of positions that they are looking
to fill. You may want to do some research on each of the companies that you are
interested in, and even make a cover letter for each of these companies. Also,
make sure to bring plenty of resumes and business cards.
Co-op/Internship
Co-op
placements and internships are a great way to gain some experience, and to try
different roles to determine what fields you are interested in. Co-op
placements are done by students through a school program. Alternatively,
internships are typically done by both students and new graduates during the
summer. They aren’t always connected to a school program, and can be either
paid or unpaid. Additionally, volunteering can also be done to develop your
skills, and to avoid having any time gaps on your resume.
Education
Human
capital is a valued commodity. Taking additional courses or going back to
school can increase your chances of getting the job you want. It may also be
necessary if you want to change your career. Some workplaces offer to reimburse
some or all of your tuition fees. If you work for such a company, you should
take advantage. This will help you to advance in your current workplace and to
increase your chances of getting the next job you want.
Conclusion
Make sure
to always have an up-to-date resume and to continuously improve your skills.
Also, ensure that you are regularly utilizing social media and any networking
opportunities.
Good luck
on finding your perfect job!