Job Hunting

You've heard it before, but it's true! The very best way to find a job is by a referral from a frend, relative, or acquaintance. Tell EVERYONE you come in contact with that you arre looking for a (specific) job & WHAT YOU CAN DO. And ask them "Do you know anyone that's - even thinking - of hiring?"

A very basic one-page resume is best; and YES, you will still have to fill out an application!

Have ALL the information you'll need for an application on a card or sheet so you can fill out the apps on site if need be. Take it with you!!

Let someone else 'edit' your resume, all job applications, cover letters - anything you will be sending out or turning in - we can read over our mistakes all the time.

Get a 3 ring binder, or a file holder to keep all related job hunt items together. Keep copies of your resume, references so they are clean & handy. Keep copies of all job applications and any job listing papers (newspaper clippings, print-outs,etc you have. Keep a record of any interviews, names etc you go on. All above with the dates that apply.

Practise. Have someone ask you prtinent questions and go over your answers several times so you can 'think' of them when asked similar questions at interview.

Newspaper, job search engines, employment departments........you never know where YOUR new job will show up.

First impressions DO count. Even the receptionist! She may be asked for comments on applicants.

Know them & let interviewer know them. (It's NOT bragging) State what you've done and what you can do.

Let people know you WANT to learn new things.

Sounds simple, but you'd be surprized how many people ignore this.

Otherwise you are only 'hoping' they got it!

Do a drive-by the day before if possible, check out traffic, location and parking.

With internet this is fairly simple, also ask others if they know or have heard anything at all about this company. Learn all you can BEFORE the interview - you may be asked what you know about the company. It can also provide you with some questions to ask at the interview (to show your interest).

Not the 'how much do you pay' kind. Things about the job that may not have already been mentioned - schedules, duties, expectations of company, or specific questions about the history, etc of the company.

Nice gesture that puts your name in front of interviewer again!

Yes, you may get discouraged before that 'great' job comes along. Have someone (or several someones) go over things with you, talk about your skills, your interviews (or lack of), brainstorm your resume and job applications. Call your references, see if any calls have come into them - if so, what was said on BOTH sides.