Job Search Strategies

FOUR METHODS OF JOB HUNTING

Advertisements

• Obtain as much information about the company as possible before responding.

• Use your cover letter to answer every point that is mentioned in the ad.

• Customize your response to show that you “match” the company’s needs.

• Make direct contact rather than mailing your résumé – if you can reach the right person by telephone or face to face, your chances increase.

Approaching Companies

Approaching companies directly, even when no jobs are advertised is excellent method of tapping into the hidden job market. Two types of positions might be available: A Current Opening, a position that is vacant and needs to be filled, or a Created Opening which is a position yet to be established. Either way, timing and luck are the two main factors in finding a job in this manner- you can increase your odds by targeting the most promising companies first.

Networking

Employers hire people not résumés or letters. Look for opportunities to get face to face with potential employers. When this is not possible, at least make contact by phone. Your goal is to reduce any barriers that exist between you and the person doing the hiring. Avoid the tendency to sit back and wait for what appears to be promising opportunity. When a job offer comes along, it is almost always because the job seeker did something to make it happen. Networking is the key to penetrating the hidden job market.

Networking Tips

• The purpose of networking is to get information, advice and referrals.

• One of the best ways to identify members in your network is to develop a contact list. Begin by making a list of people you know – include everyone.

• Never directly ask for a job while networking and conducting information interviews.

• The more specific you can be about the kind of work you want the better your chances of successfully networking.

• Successful networking involves gathering information while also learning to handle rejections.

Guideline for making networking calls

The telephone is one of the best tools you have in your job search. It can save you time and can help you obtain valuable information quickly. Some people resist using the telephone. They are uncomfortable calling strangers and fear rejection or making mistakes. The key to success in using the phone is to understand the various types of calls, plan what you want to say, and then practice handling these situations before they occur.

Planning Telephone Calls

• Organize! Prepare notes and rehearse your phone presentation in advance.

• Request a meeting rather than an interview.

• Describe your intention as wanting to discuss ways you can contribute to their organization rather than looking for a job – DO NOT ASK FOR A JOB!

• Get to the point quickly: show that you appreciate the value of their time – use a prepared thirty-second summary.

• Expect resistance. People usually resist setting up meetings with strangers. Try to come away with something valuable – advice, a referral, or an appointment.

Planning your telephone presentation

Before you call a prospective employer you should prepare a thirty-second summary. Your summary should include your skills and abilities and demonstrate your effective communication skills. In writing your summary, you should include your positive points – your formal education, relevant work experience, and any special skills you possess.

Sample thirty-second summary

“I received a _________ Diploma/Degree from Canadian Business College. During the past year I worked part time as a ________ for __________. This position allowed me to develop _______________ experience. As well, I have strengthened both my hardware and software computer knowledge. I would like to meet with you at your convenience to discuss how I could benefit your company with my __________ skills and driving ambition.”

Job Search on the Internet

The Internet offers tremendous advantages for those who know how to use it. You must realize that the Internet is a tremendously huge database and you must seek out very specific areas of opportunity. You cannot just post your resume on a database service and then sit back and wait.