Job Search Tips
Job Tips: Finding Your Perfect Job
Now that you have your resume, cover letter and references, you can begin targeting businesses or organizations that you’d like to work for. Apply for jobs at places that interest you – even if they are not advertising a job. Many jobs are never advertised, and even if employers aren’t looking for someone at the time, they may keep you in mind for future openings. So expand your job-search and call businesses where you would like to work. Find out who is responsible for hiring – get their names and their job titles. This is called tapping into the hidden job market. You could land a job by being at the right place at the right time and by making a good impression. Be flexible and willing to take on casual work, any job that lasts five days or less, to gain experience while earning some money. Casual work can lead to full-time work or, at the very least, contacts who can steer you towards other opportunities.
Did You Know….?
- 50 to 75% of good jobs come from friends – and friends of friends – by word of mouth.
- Apply for jobs at places that interest you – even if they are not advertising a job.
- Many jobs are never advertised, and even if employers aren’t looking for someone at the time, they may keep you in mind for future openings.
Job Search Related Links:
Finding work, is work! Job searching can be challenging. There are many ups and downs, but there are some key things to remember when you are looking for work.
Here are Some Helpful Tips:
- Have a winning resume. While you may be very pleased with your resume, it is always a good idea to seek a second opinion. Pay attention to spelling and grammatical errors—the number one turnoff among employers.
- Take advantage of networking opportunities. Most jobs found in the hidden job market come from conversations with people you know, or someone who knows you.
- Get to know the organization / company that you are applying to. The more you know, the more confident you will be should you be interviewed for a position with the firm.
- Practice your interview skills. Have someone ask you potential questions and rehearse your answers.
- Get to know staff who work at Employment Ontario offices. They are frequently contacted by employers who don’t want to publicly place job ads and are looking for “quiet referrals.”
- Don’t just drop off your resume. Make a phone call and request a meeting with a hiring manager that you think would be interested in your skills. You’ll be surprised at how many of these appointments lead to new job opportunities.
- Know your labour market. Do plenty of research on who is hiring, who is laying off, and what are the labour market trends of the future.
Networking
Put some feelers out. Get in touch with people you know who are working at places you’re interested in or are in a career that appeals to you. Let them know you’re looking and see if they can help you – even if it’s just giving you the names and phone numbers of people you can call.
Volunteering
This is a great way to get meaningful work experience while learning new skills, meeting different people and contributing to your community. Volunteer work often leads to paid employment. It is also one of the most successful forms of networking during your job search. Contact organizations that need volunteers. Try to find volunteer work that will add to your existing skill set or help you explore different career possibilities.
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