Starting a Job Search
By Kristi Vaughan
Whether you are looking for work that is full-time or part-time, career path or not, somewhere there is an employer who has a job that is just right for you. The trick is finding it. And, while we can't do the work for you, we can offer a few tips and Internet links to help you get started on your job search.
Know Yourself
The U.S. Department of Labor suggests that the key to a successful job search is marketing your talents effectively.
So, step one is knowing what you like to do and what you can do.
Lists are always a good place to start. Post them on the walls, on the kitchen table or wherever it is convenient and then add thoughts as you walk by.
Consider your needs and desires as well as interests and skills:
- Do you enjoy working alone or with other people?
- Can you stand on your feet all day or are you better off in a job where you are seated most of the time?
- Will you be juggling work with childcare? If so, how does this impact the hours you can work?
- How far away from home are you willing to travel?
- Do you need a steady paycheck or can you work on commission?
What do you like to do? Make a list of your hobbies, activities and clubs to which you might belong. In a separate column list the skills, knowledge and ability it takes to do these activities. And don't be modest. Organizing and running the school's book sale takes financial and management skills, among others!
How about past job experience? Even if it has been years since you received a paycheck, the skills you used in that past job could be applicable today.
Find a match
Step two is finding a job that matches your skills. If you were always selected as the treasurer of school clubs or parent groups maybe your future lies in bookkeeping or accounting. Do friends ask you for fashion assistance? Maybe a retail job is in your future. Keep going through your lists and think about the kinds of jobs friends and relatives have. Could your skills apply?
Be ready to fill in the gaps
If it has been a couple of years since you've been in the workforce, the chances are excellent that there have been technological changes and advances for even the simplest of tasks. Fill in the gaps with courses. Local high schools and community colleges usually offer basic courses on select computer programs as well as other business skills. And you may be able to find courses that help you in identifying your job personality or writing a resume. There are even online courses to help you gain additional knowledge.
Read this article for more information on career gaps:
Rely on lots of sources
Despite all the Internet search engines, two key aspects to job searching remain unchanged. It takes persistence and contacts. Don't be afraid to tell friends and relatives - or even the parents of the kids on your son's soccer team - that you are looking for a job. You never know what opportunity these conversations might uncover.
For More Information:
The federal government, through the Federal Citizen Information Center offers tips for finding the right job from the US Department of Labor as well as information writing resumes, applications and cover letters.
Job search engines such as Career Builder, Monster.com and Yahoo Hotjobs offer listings as well as advice.
