Job Hunting Basics to Help You Out in the "Field"
Whether you are angling for your first job or getting back on track after a company downsizing, there are some job hunting basics you should follow to ensure a successful venture. With the right preparation tools and steps followed, regardless of your area of employment interest, you will end up with job suitable just for you.
Before the Actual Hunt
One of the first steps in the job hunting game is the preparation and revamping of your cover letter and resume or curriculum vitae. The cover letter provides the first impression of who you are as a potential employee and it should state why you believe you are the best candidate for the job. Your resume or curriculum vitae is a type of accomplishment and skill menu offering which illustrates to potential employers what you have done in the past and hints at what you may be able to accomplish in the future.
Practicing for interviews and skills testing is another facet of the job hunting game that you should be prepared to do. Some jobs require a certain skill set that must be proven whether it is a timed typing test for speed and accuracy or a competency test to assess your computer skills. Having a partner is helpful during this practice phase as they can critique your interview style as well as aid you in the testing process before job hunting.
Where to Find a Job
With the internet opening up additional avenues, there are now many more job hunting areas to search beyond the traditional newspaper classified advertisements. Many online job websites are available where companies and potential employers post job listings that you can peruse. Often times, job hunting websites may specialize in certain fields such as sales or engineering which can help you greatly reduce your search pool.
Employee placement agencies and professional consultants are two more job hunting avenues to pursue as well. Employers pay the consultant or agency to search for potential candidates as well as test their skills and even interview them on their behalf. In addition, you can also sign on with an agency whose purpose is to search for a job that fits within your skill set and preferences for employment.
Of course, networking is the best job hunting asset you can have because employers tend to take the advice of trusted colleagues and valued employees. Because many employment opportunities are not advertised, it is word of mouth networking that greatly helps you in the job hunting game.
