The first step in finding a job is to write a resume and/or prepare to complete a job application. You will need a cover letter as well because employers often request a cover letter when they ask potential employees to send them their resume. If you are seeking a part-time job or work in a career field such as retail or hospitality you will need to complete an application for employment. When applying for full-time, professional job opportunities you’ll find that in most cases you will need to forward the employer your resume first. Chances are you’ll only complete a job application after your resume has been reviewed (& approved) and/or after a job interview.
Your next step in finding a job is to find employment opportunities to apply to. The good news is there are multiple ways to find a job including networking, the Internet, and classified ads. Below is a brief description of each option.
Networking
If you are unemployed, or just looking for another job, give a few of your friends, former co-workers, and family members a call and ask them is their organization hiring. If their company isn’t hiring, ask them do they know of an organization that may be hiring. While you’re at it, call up a few people that may know someone who can let you know where a job or two is available. Contact your friends that are on whatever social network you’re using (like this website) and ask them. Networking can prove to be a plus for you if you get “recommended” for the position from someone within an organization… Assuming of course that the person that recommended you is well respected in the company.
The Internet
On the Internet one can find a multitude of job openings posted by employers. In addition, you can post your resume on the Internet for employers to view (click here to view samples). The flip side is, thousands of individuals are looking on the Internet for a job “just like you”. Don’t let that deter you though. This is only one of the many tools you use to obtain a job.
Calling “Cold Turkey”
You’ll be surprised by the quantity of people that obtained a job by calling employers “cold turkey”. In other words, picking up the phone book, choosing a company from the list, then calling the specified company for a job. Obviously it isn’t that simple. Do not call and ask, “Do you have any open job positions?” If you do, guess what the answer is going to be?
First, write your script. The whole idea is to make yourself appear “needed” by the company you are calling. In other words, sell yourself. Your script can go something of this nature:
“Good morning Ms. Johnson. My name is Dennis Brown. I am a recent graduate of [Your School Here], in which I studied [Your Profession Here]. My previous work experience includes [Fill In The Blank]. I am proficient in [Your Skills Here], [Another Skill Here], and [Another Skill Here]. My skills also include Customer Svc and I Type 45 wpm. At your earliest convenience I would like to schedule an appointment with you, at which time I can further discuss how I can be a benefit to your organization.”
Along with your script, have your resume at hand in case you need to refer to a previous job during your conversation. Once you have your script and resume ready, it’s time to target your employer. What you might want to do is look for companies that may have an opening for a position that you are qualified for.
After you have your first list of targets, you need to obtain the contact person from the specified company you are going to call. To obtain a “name”, call the number listed in the Yellow Pages (or whatever source you are using) and ask for the name of the “Human Resource Manager”, “Personnel Manager”, or politely ask whoever picks up the phone to, “… Kindly inform me of the individual that is in charge of Personnel”. You may also want to ask for the specified individual’s direct telephone number.
Remember, since the individual on the other end of the line cannot see you, their only impressions will be what you tell them, and the tone and attitude of your voice. Try to smile when talking. It’ll make you sound like a “people’s person”. In addition, avoid using “slang”.
Classified Ads
Though almost a thing of the past, Classified Ads in newspapers and/or the website of the respective newspaper is a good place to look job opportunities. Employers often advertise information about job positions that are available within their organization in this particular section of newspapers. You may also find information about a job “Open House” – a location where representatives from several organizations will meet with applicants about available job opportunities.
Always remember, when sending your resume in response to a classified ad, always send a cover letter. The company you are sending your resume to receives numerous resumes, for various positions. Your cover letter will explain the position you are inquiring about, and enhance your resume.