Career Corner - 3 Tips to Finding a Job
Finding a job can take months of time and effort. But you can speed the process by using many methods to find job openings. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggest that people who use many job search methods find jobs faster than people who use only one or two.
Tip #1: Use personal contacts.
Many jobs are never advertised. People get them by talking to friends, family, neighbors, acquaintances, teachers, former coworkers, and others who know of an opening. Be sure to tell people that you are looking for a job because the people you know may be some of the most effective resources for your search. To develop new contacts, join student, community, or professional organizations.
Tip #2: Contact employers directly.
This is one of the most successful means of job hunting. Through library and internet research, develop a list of potential employers in your desired career field. Then call these employers and check their websites for job openings. Websites and business directories can tell you how to apply for a position or whom to contact. Even if no open positions are posted, do not hesitate to contact the employer; you never know when a job might become available. Consider asking for an informational interview with people working in the career you want to learn more about. Ask them how they got started, what they like and dislike about the work, what type of qualifications are necessary for the job, and what type of personality succeeds in that position. In addition to giving you career information, they may be able to put you in contact with other employers who may be hiring, and they can keep you in mind if a position opens up.
Tip #3: Internet resources.
The internet includes many job hunting websites with job listings. Some job boards provide national listings of all kinds; others are local. Some relate to a specific type of work; others are general. To find good prospects, begin with an internet search using keywords related to the job you want. Also, look for the websites of related professional associations.
For additional information, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
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