The economy is in a current state of turmoil. The number of citizens without a job is high and people are facing reduced employment hours or worse. If there is any time when a job is needed, this is it. Keep reading for tips that can help you get a job.
Use networking to your advantage. Perhaps a friend or relative knows someone who is looking for someone just like you! Often job seekers skip this step; however, that’s not a good idea. A great recommendation can get your foot in the door.
When you are applying for a job, make sure that the job will make you happy. Often you will become so concerned with the amount of money the job pays, that you will disregard the quality of life that it will bring you. Always balance the monetary and practical benefits of a job.
After you are done with your interview, be sure to send a thank you letter to the person who interviewed you. This not only is an act of graciousness, but also shows that you are following up in a professional manner. This will make a great first impression if you did not make one already.
Do not waste any time applying for jobs that are not really on the list of your preferred positions. While you may end up getting one of these jobs, you will not be happy with it since that is not really where you want to be. The more you love your job, the more likely you are to be better at it.
You don’t want to be friends with your bosses or co-workers. It is your best interest to keep your relationships at work on a professional level. This is especially important if you like to party in your free time or frequently get into arguments in personal relationships. Avoid situations like these if you do not want to risk your job.
Be confident in yourself when interviewing for positions. When you are confident in your skills and abilities it will show through during the interview. Confidence and the ability to lead are qualities that employers look for. There are probably many eligible job seekers interviewing for the same position, so make sure that you stand out from the rest.
Make phone calls to the references that you are using on your resume. If your potential employer gives your reference a call and finds out you lied, it would be a very bad thing. Verify that the location information for your references is correct.
Update your resume. You should always keep your resume current, even when you are not on the hunt for a job. You never know when an opportunity may present itself, so have a copy of your resume ready and available. It will also be easier to keep track of previous employment when you don’t have to track down each bit of info as you need it.
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!
You should not use the same resume or cover letter to apply for different jobs. You should create your resume or cover letter in function of the position you want. Make sure you draw attention to relevant work experiences or specific skills that represent an advantage for the job you want.
If you are asked about your weaknesses during a job interview, try to be as positive as possible in your answer. For example, don’t say, “I’m very disorganized.” Say something about how you are more focused on being flexible than on organization but that you use tools to keep yourself organized anyway.
Always bring a list of references with you to a job interview. Make sure the information is up to date and that your references are expecting to be called. You need three references typically, so don’t list more than that. Include people who have been your superior, co-workers or even co-volunteers, if you must.
Meeting a potential employer in person is often much better than applying for a job online. You should print some resumes and visit local businesses to ask if they are currently hiring. You will have the opportunity to talk to potential employers, ask questions and make a good first impression.
You have the tools and the information to help you land a job in this era of economic crisis, so you it to your advantage. Having a job means that you can provide for yourself and your family members. There’s a job waiting for you right now, so get out there and find it!
