Tony Jacowski asked:


In order to conduct an effective job search, you have to know what you are looking for, why you are looking and how to go about it. There are a few common myths and misconceptions to be aware of so your job hunt stays on the right path.

-After college, jobs come easily: You should never expect that you will get job offers immediately after you graduate. It will take time for you to find a good job. The fact is that some people will be lucky while others will have to wait longer. You need to have patience - on average, finding a suitable job takes 3-4 months. Don’t waste your time simply waiting. Until you find a good job, try working in a smaller one, at least part-time. It may not pay you as much, but it will at least keep you occupied.

-Putting your resume on the Internet means more offers: This is not always true. Think about what recruiters must be going through. They get more than a hundred resumes everyday, and it is definitely not possible for them to consider each and every one of them. The best advice here is to personalize your resume to meet the requirements of each job that you apply to.

-Classified ads make up the majority of job openings: Agreed - ads in the newspapers and on the Internet do make up a good deal of job openings, but not all of them. The jobs that offer a big position and a huge salary are usually not advertised everywhere. This calls for some savvy networking. Try to approach companies even if there is no opening advertised, and don’t forget to leave your resume with them. If there is an opening, be being proactive, you may receive a call for an interview.

-Job-hopping is bad: This is a very popular misconception that everyone seems to believe. Though this used to be a fact some years ago, but now the mindset of the average employer has changed. Changing jobs frequently was once viewed as instability in character. But now it is okay to change your job after a year, as this now indicates your ambition to learn and advance in your career.

-If you’re over 50, it’s over: This issue can never pose as a problem as long as you have the proper education, relevant experience and the right attitude. Having the right attitude means being open to new ideas, team spirit and contributing to the company.



Reid

Stress-free Job Hunting Guide

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Nicholas Tan asked:


Hunting for the perfect job for an individual requires time, effort and knowledge.

For stress free job-hunting, every individual must first consider the following pointers before starting your job hunting process:

1. Know what type of job you would like to apply for. Gate crashing job fairs that offer work not related to one’s degree or work preference would be a waste of time.

Consider your interests, preference of work location and job shifts (to be especially considered by professionals who have family members to take care of). If all these fit the category of the job opening available, it would be best to proceed with the application process.

2. Prepare possible needed documents or career portfolio. Have several copies of your resume, transcript of records and any certifications ready for immediate submission if needed.

3. Know where to look for job postings. There are various forms that offer listing of jobs. Below are some of these sites:

3.1 Internet. One of most widely used searching options is the Internet. Aside from the fact that browsing the Internet for available jobs is less time consuming than personal appearances to inquire at the offices, this can also be the least expensive form of job hunting.

You would not need to buy newspapers to browse through the ads for vacancies nor spend gas money to go to the offices.

Not only local or national vacancies can be browsed through the net, international job openings could likewise be easily accessed by the user, thus, offering one a much wider perspective in choosing the right job.

3.2 Newspapers. One of the most commonly used searching medium. Local newspapers advertise jobs that are within an applicant’s commuting distance. Available jobs are usually printed on a regular basis.

3.3 Career or Job Centers. These usually offer jobs for ages 16-18 and rarely above 21 years of age. Though fully loaded with vacancies, it caters mostly to the younger applicants.

Job listings are frequently updated; therefore regular visits would ensure the applicants of new job postings.

3.4 Periodicals or magazines. Professionals are best advised to look for jobs on magazines since employers that would want to hire the same would advertise on such journals.

3.5 Offices. Most offices have postings of job openings on their Vacancy Boards. Applicants may directly go to the office to look for vacancies and then directly submit the resume or other pertinent documents to the respective division that receives such documents.



Emilia

t7degree asked:


I’m currently job hunting, but I don’t know if it is proper to give out the information that I’m losing my current job due to downsizing. I would like too, in order to play the sympathy card, but don’t know if the hiring manager/recruiter would look unfavorably upon it.

Mil

Job Hunting Success

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Tony Jacowski asked:


If you are out looking for a job, do not expect your employer to know what your employment value is just by looking at your resume or by interviewing you. It is your responsibility to prove this to him or her. Also, if you allow the employers to determine your value, then the chances of them coming to the wrong conclusion will be strong. In order to prevent this, you need to know exactly who you are, what you are capable of, and what it is that you have to sell.

For instance, if you are having a discussion with your prospective employer, then you should probably address issues like how you can help him or her become more successful. This is the only topic that will grab any attention as any other topic would be a waste of time.

You should always know your value as an employee before you actually begin searching for a job so that you can take control of the entire job-search process. Make sure to define certain goals for yourself. Once you have decided what you are looking for before you actually start looking for something, you will have the right clues as to where and when to start looking.

Any job search in order to find a job can be a daunting task. Be prepared to devote all your time and energy in this process. If you are presently unemployed, prepare yourself to spend at least 30 hours every week in searching for a job. If you happen to be employed, then prepare yourself for an “extra” job over the next few months until you find yourself a new job.

Tips for Effective Job-Hunting

Job hunting can be quite intimidating and stressful and can sometimes produce both depression and anxiety in an individual. It probably will take a lot of time for you to find employment, so it is advisable to start as soon as you can and patience is a must!

In addition, make sure that you have a specific goal, but still be prepared and flexible in your approach and your use of alternate options is sometimes necessary. While knowing what kind of a job you want is essential to your job search, you must also keep in mind that there is no guarantee that you will find what you are looking for.

There are loads of opportunities out there and plenty of help is available, so don’t ever be afraid to ask for help. Ask friends, associates, relatives and even career advisors for help. There’s no point in maintaining that “I can do this myself” attitude; the task is generally bigger than you can imagine!

Churning out hundreds of resumes is just a waste of time and energy. Employers receive millions of resume each day and this can get pretty annoying! Getting professional help when making your resume sounds like a good idea as this will help you stand out from the crowd.

Networking is absolutely necessary when you’re out searching for jobs. From job search support groups to former co-workers, bosses, and old classmates, there are many sources out there. Check internet job search engines as there are thousands of sites available.

Follow these few tips and you can rest assured that your job hunt will end up in success!



Fernando

Ciaron asked:


I’m looking for job listing websites, both general and those with a lean towards the IT sector. UK only please.

Lacey

PAUL BOWLEY asked:


When it comes to job hunting for women, getting ahead in the job marketplace . . . or on the job . . . is a special challenge. It shouldn’t have to be that way. But, until the rules change, successful job hunting for women depends on how well you learn to go with the flow.

That means, if you can master some simple communication skills, you can put yourself way ahead of the male competition. But, according to career coach Molly Dickinson Shepard, you have to learn to talk like the male dominated management you’re confronted with.

Essentially this means learning how to speak more assertively, she recommends. But without crossing the line into aggressiveness. Here are some rules that can help you make management sit up and pay attention:

1. Your tone and level of voice can make all the difference.

2. Don’t challenge your boss or group leader in public. Don’t embarrass colleagues and don’t make personal attacks.

3. Never show anger at work.

4. Confident speech is good. Cocky is bad.

5. When you’re in charge and a decision is yours, don’t solicit everyone’s opinion.

6. Women like to make everyone feel included. But men see this as passive and unleaderlike.

7. Don’t allow yourself to feel wounded by words of criticism at work.

Effective communication is a critical factor in job hunting for women. It’s also the hallmark for getting along and getting ahead on the job. Practicing these simple rules can give you a real leg up.

The same is true if you are looking for a new job. Many times you will be meeting face-to-face with a male decision-maker who has male expectations about how women job searchers should communicate. Once again, assertiveness rules.

To be assertive you have to very clear about what you have going for you that will attract the attention of the decision-maker. And then you have to be able to tell him with confidence. It’s definitely worth practicing for.

So, the first step is to make an honest assessment of what you’ve got going for you. You know, all your strengths, capabilities and assets. Now, don’t limit yourself only to those skills you’ve acquired on the job. Your skill base goes way beyond your resume. Remember, an employer is hiring a whole person not a resume.

The second step is to practice your presentation. Once again, employers aren’t looking for a rehash of your work history. They want to hear how your talents relate to their and their organization’s needs. If you’re serious about beating out the competition, then you’ll want to practice your approach to a prospective employer.

With an assertive, dynamic communication plan, job hunting for women can be a powerful career advancement success for you!



Snehal

Enlightenme! asked:


I been looking for a new job for quite sometime now, although I had a few interviews, I haven’t landed anything yet. I am still looking but my optimism and motivation are steadily declining.

At least I am employed now (with a crap@y job), but need to find a new job before my contract runs out.

Suggestions on staying focused, maintaining optimism, and being consistent would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Emmy

Stress-free Job Hunting Guide

Filed Under Job Hunting | Comments Off

John Pawlett asked:


Hunting for the perfect job for an individual requires time, effort and knowledge.

For stress free job-hunting, every individual must first consider the following pointers before starting your job hunting process:

1. Know what type of job you would like to apply for. Gate crashing job fairs that offer work not related to one’s degree or work preference would be a waste of time.

Consider your interests, preference of work location and job shifts (to be especially considered by professionals who have family members to take care of). If all these fit the category of the job opening available, it would be best to proceed with the application process.

2. Prepare possible needed documents or career portfolio. Have several copies of your resume, transcript of records and any certifications ready for immediate submission if needed.

3. Know where to look for job postings. There are various forms that offer listing of jobs. Below are some of these sites:

3.1 Internet. One of most widely used searching options is the Internet. Aside from the fact that browsing the Internet for available jobs is less time consuming than personal appearances to inquire at the offices, this can also be the least expensive form of job hunting.

You would not need to buy newspapers to browse through the ads for vacancies nor spend gas money to go to the offices.

Not only local or national vacancies can be browsed through the net, international job openings could likewise be easily accessed by the user, thus, offering one a much wider perspective in choosing the right job.

3.2 Newspapers. One of the most commonly used searching medium. Local newspapers advertise jobs that are within an applicant’s commuting distance. Available jobs are usually printed on a regular basis.

3.3 Career or Job Centers. These usually offer jobs for ages 16-18 and rarely above 21 years of age. Though fully loaded with vacancies, it caters mostly to the younger applicants.

Job listings are frequently updated; therefore regular visits would ensure the applicants of new job postings.

3.4 Periodicals or magazines. Professionals are best advised to look for jobs on magazines since employers that would want to hire the same would advertise on such journals.

3.5 Offices. Most offices have postings of job openings on their Vacancy Boards. Applicants may directly go to the office to look for vacancies and then directly submit the resume or other pertinent documents to the respective division that receives such documents.



Marwan

♥Gator Girl♥ asked:


I am moving back up to my hometown and I would like to at least have some job interviews when I go back up there. I am getting an apartment with my friend and I dont want to be unemployed and screw her over. Any suggestions?

Ive checked craigslist, careerbuilder, yahoo hot jobs, and monster…are there any more?

Seven

E_L_P asked:


I have three degrees (BA in Communications, BFA in Creative Writing, and a MA in English Education). I cannot, for the life of me, seem to find any sort of job outside of the education field (which I no longer wish to pursue). Can putting all three degrees on my resume hurt my chances at being hired or considered for a job?

Zahirul