Advice For Landing The Right Job

Somewhere, An Employer Has Job You Want; Question Is, How To Get It

(CBS)  Thanks to high unemployment and a shrinking job market, finding the right job can seem impossible. But somewhere, an employer has the job you want. The question is, how to get the job.

By marketing your job talents and showing employers you have the skills they need, you can be well on your way to finding a job suited to your needs, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

One thing to keep in mind is that looking for a job is a full-time job. And the search for employment must be treated as such:

Set your own responsibilities

Wake up early at a set time "on time" to start looking for work

Look hard for a job, all day, 40 hours a week

Be your own boss (or appoint a friend to be your "boss" who can make sure you carry-out your job search responsibilities.

Tips for Planning an Effective Job Search:

Make a "To Do List" every day. Outline daily activities to look for a job.

Apply for jobs early in the day. This will make a good impression and give you time to complete applications, have interviews, take tests, etc.

Call employers to find out the best times to apply. Some companies take applications only on certain days and times during the week.

Write down all employers you contact, the date of your contacts, people you talk to and special notes about your contacts.

Apply at several companies in the same area when possible. This saves time and money.

Be prepared. Have a "master application" and resumes, pens, maps and job information with you all the time. Who knows when a "hot lead" will come your way.

Follow up leads immediately. If you find out about a job late in the day, call right then. Don't wait until the next day.

Network. Tell everyone you know that you are looking for job. Stay in touch with friends and contacts. Follow up new leads immediately.

Read pamphlets and books on how to get a job. The time you spend reading these materials will save you a lot of time in your job search.

Make automated connections through systems on the Internet, such as America's Job Bank and the Talent Bank

Where To Get Job Information

If you know what job skills you have, you are ready to look for a job. You can look for job openings through these sources:

Networking. Tell everyone you know you're looking for a job. Ask about openings where your friends work.

Private employers. Contact employers directly to market your job talents. Talk to the person who would supervise you even if there are no jobs currently open.

State Employment Service Offices provide help on finding jobs and other services, such as career counseling. See the back of this brochure for the Employment Service Office in your state.

Federal, state and local government personnel offices list a wide range of job opportunities. Check the Government listings in your phone book.

Local public libraries have books on occupations and often post local job announcements. Many state libraries are also providing free access to Internet through PCs.

Newspaper ads list various job openings.

Local phone book. Look for career counseling centers in your area (some may require fees).

Private employment and temporary centers offer placement (employer or job hunter may pay a fee).

Community colleges and trade schools usually offer counseling and job information to students and the general public.

Proprietary schools. Private training centers offer instruction in specific trades (tuition is usually required). Check with your office of state education for credible schools.

Community organizations such as clubs, associations, women and minority centers, and youth organizations.

Veterans' placement centers operate through state employment offices. Veterans' social and help organizations often have job listings for members.

Unions and apprenticeship programs provide job opportunities and information. Contact your state apprenticeship council or relevant labor union directly.

Government sponsored training programs offer direct placement or short-term training and placement for applicants who qualify. Check the yellow pages under Job Training Programs or Government Services.

Journals and newsletters for professionals or trade associations often advertise job openings in their field. Ask for these at the local library.

Popular Online Job Sites:
mediabistro.com
monster.com
careerpath.com.
careerbuilder.com.
hotjobs.com
America's Job Bank
Boomer Career.com

Other Employment Resources:
Bankrate.com
Department of Labor


© MMIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Share:

• Share
• Yahoo! Buzz
• Twitter
• Mixx

CBSNews.com On Digg