Have you been looking for employment for the past few months or years? It’s difficult to be out of work, and even more difficult to look for work. However, it is possible to land your dream job. Check out these tips to learn how.
Changing the way you are looking for work might be something to consider if you are having a difficult time finding a job. Do not let the limited number of companies hiring stop you from working. Spread your search out more to locations you may not previously wanted to go to for work. Make sure that you can cover the cost of the commute, should you land a job there.
If you are between jobs, make the most of this time. Instead of allowing yourself to fee; bored and distressed, take the initiative to become more productive. For example, you might volunteer with a local adult literacy program, teach senior citizens about Medicare coverage or lead workshops at a center for small businesses. You will gain valuable experience, preserve your sanity and possibly expand your network.
Make sure that on the first day of your new job, to treat people with respect and courteousness. This means that you should go out of your way to get to know people and tell them a little bit about yourself. Remember, you only have one chance to make a good first impression.
No matter what your education or your work experience, do not be too picky about what kind of job you want. Sure, there may be a field you are very interested in, but you cannot discount another field if there are more opportunities in it. You can always take your second choice job until your first choice job becomes available.
Do not always trust jobs you see on the Internet. While certain sites are safe, other sites, such as Criagslist, have many scammers that not only are false employers, but are looking to take your money. The best way to go job hunting is by asking people you can trust or by going to establishments to ask if they are hiring.
Remember when you go to a job interview to always dress professionally and make a good impression with what you wear. Even if the job is for a minimum wage or manual labor position, you will stand out from the crowd if you look good. You will have a better chance of getting a call back or actually landing the job when you look your best.
When looking for a job, consider shifting industries. If you are in between jobs, that is usually the best time to make a change. If you have been working in sales, for example, now might be the best time to shift to real estate. Look for ways to use your skillset in new ways, and that will expand the list of possible jobs for you.
If you are finding it difficult to get a job in a certain field, you may find it helpful to go back to school. In the meantime, you can get a part-time job to help you survive as you go to school. The more education you have, the easier it will be for you to get a job.
Get help. There are numerous free or low cost services available that can help you obtain everything from career advice to resume writing. A good place to start your search for these services is your local library and Department of Labor. Look for applicable classes and workshops and sign up!
Curb your tongue during the first few months of employment. Remember, you are the new person. You may have a lot of great ideas, but if you stir the pot too early, you may never get a chance to set your ideas in motion. Your first job should be to get all those at your new work to like and trust you.
Prepare an “elevator pitch” about yourself. This is a 30 to 60 second statement that could be delivered on an elevator ride, hence the name. Include information about your biography and any pertinent career accomplishments. Use the statement on phone interviews or when asked why you should be hired for the job.
Get out there and attend many functions. First and foremost, attend any professional association gatherings that are pertinent to your area. This is a great place to find out about openings and make important personal connections. Also attend alumni events for your alma mater and make connections with other alumni that may be able to help you in your search.
Getting a job in this recession is hard, but not impossible. Hopefully your days of scouring job boards and filling out applications are coming to an end. Make use of the advice you have just read here, and you can succeed. Keep your chin up and be ready to pounce on the right opportunity.
