A job search is a process. It is a lot like cooking. A dish can be cooked in different ways. The ingredients and preparation methods may vary, but in the end it can still taste just as good.
Similarly, in a job search, people use different ways to find job openings. They also use different ways to impress employers to get hired. What works for some may not work for others, but what is important is that they get the job.
In cooking, people of today cook differently than those of yesteryear because of the many innovations and new cookware available today. However, it is still important even for people today to know the basics of cooking.
You need to know how to properly slice a piece of meat, or else you can cut yourself. That is why, just like in cooking, you also need to know the basics of the job search.
Yes, the way we conduct a job search today is different. The Internet has introduced new ways to search for jobs, but let’s not forget about the methods of searching for a job that existed before the Internet.
These methods, although they might seem outdated to some of us, are still solid ways to look for jobs.
Phone Book
Seriously, who uses phone books anymore? In today’s digital age, wouldn’t it make more sense to just look it up using your smartphone or tablet? Yes, it certainly is less time-consuming to do that, but it also makes you more tempted to go to Facebook to chat with friends.
Using a phone book helps you focus. Furthermore, you can often count on the information in a phone book to be more accurate than what you’ll find on the Internet.
Networking Events/Job Fairs
Everyone says that when you go on a job search, what you need to do is network. The Internet has certainly helped us network with a lot of people without leaving the comfort of our homes. However, that also leaves us to create weaker relationships with people.
Going to networking events allows you to create stronger connections with people. You are open to countless opportunities around you in a networking event. Everyone around you is a potential lead. Plus, this also helps you practice your social skills in promoting yourself.
Informal Places (e.g., Parties and Holidays)
A job search is not limited to a specific event or place. You can conduct your job search at a bus stop or a party. Whenever you go somewhere where you have a chance to talk to people—especially in a party—it doesn’t hurt to introduce yourself as someone who is looking for a job when people ask you what you do.
Professional Associations
Every field has a professional association. If you are not a member of one, then you are missing out on a lot of the benefits of joining one. Professional associations are a great source of information on the latest developments in your field, and they are also a resource for those who are looking for a job.
Alumni Associations
If you are an alumnus, use this to your advantage. Get in touch with career services; they may be able to provide you with job leads.
Friends and Family
There is no better resource for job leads than the people around you. Talk to your friends and family. Let them know that you are now looking for a job. They are more likely to help you than those whom you just met. Even look up old friends—a job searcher can never have too many contacts.
In your job search, you need to diversify your strategies. Don’t limit yourself to one method. You never know when the strategy that you don’t like to use is the one that gets you an interview. Then you only need to do well on your interview.
