Job search methods
Searching for a job is a long process and takes effort. It can take months before you are able to find a job that matches your specific requirements. Patience is the key while you do your job search. However, there are some methods and tips that can really help you to speed up the process of searching and finding a job. No specific job strategy will work for every applicant so be flexible and be persistent.
Internships
Internships are an excellent way to build your CV while proving to potential employers that you have a strong interest in developing some "real world" experience in your field. They are also a way to prove your worth and be first in line when a full-time position opens up. In many cases taking a proactive approach is an excellent strategy that can eventually lead to steady, full-time employment.
Career Fairs
Attending a Career Fair allows job seekers to gather information about companies and different industries, learn about job opportunities and make contacts. It is an excellent opportunity to meet with a variety of employers in person at one convenient location. Keep in mind that career fairs should be just one small part of your entire job search process; however, they can be a successful part since they offer a unique opportunity to build net¬working contacts.
Networking
The vast majority of job openings are never advertised; they’re filled by word of mouth. That is why networking is one of the most successful job search approaches The purpose of networking is to gather information, advice, and referrals that will lead to an interview and ultimately a job offer. Your network of friends, relatives, colleagues, and acquaintances is a valuable job search resource. Make a list of all friends, acquaintances, and colleagues. This is a brainstorming activity, do not leave anyone out. Connections can be provided from unlikely sources. Talk to the people on the list. Find out where they work, what companies they think highly of. Do they know who is hiring, or what businesses are expanding? Is there someone of interest in their network? Keep written records of all the information.
Employment Agencies
Private employment agencies can prove to be a good job search and career placement option if you are looking to save time. Employment agencies are trying to match the candidates' qualifications with their clients' needs.
On Campus Recruitment
The on campus recruitment events are an easy way to make contact with employers if you are chosen for interviews. Companies or recruiting agencies schedule interviews with students on-campus. It is a good way for students wishing to begin their job hunt well before graduation. These events are mostly attended by graduating students seeking full time permanent positions
Volunteering
Volunteering can help you establish important contacts and to gain valuable experience and skills. Volunteering provides you with the opportunity to share your skills and experience, to develop new skills (you can build your CV through volunteering), to access new training opportunities and to meet people in your field and expand your network. Some employers will hire their volunteers and use volunteering as a method of screening applicants before committing to hiring them.
Online Search
Τhe Internet can provide you with a great deal of information, including job listings, salary statistics, employer information and more. When using the Internet consider posting your CV for employers to look at, researching employers, accessing job openings and becoming part of a newsgroup for networking.
Employers will post jobs in newspapers, on their website, and on Internet job boards. Many companies maintain an employment or career opportunities section on their website.Τhere are hundreds of job search websites that list current job openings across a wide range of industries. Internet forums are also an excellent way to discuss job related issues and be aware of latest job openings. Most of the job websites offer jobseekers the chance to submit their CV online.
Other Sources
There is a wealth of resources available for gathering information on employers
Internet Resources. The Internet includes many job hunting Web sites with job listings. Some job boards provide National listings of all kinds; others are local. Some relate to a specific type of work; others are general. To find good prospects, begin with an Internet search using keywords related to the job you want. Also look for the Web sites of related professional associations.
Advertisements in Newspapers, National Publications, Magazines: Many job seekers consult the newspaper when seeking employment. Check the jobs advertised in the career section of the newspaper.Also review the local, regional and business sections to learn what companies and organizations are doing, and who might be a potential contact in your job search.
Chamber of Commerce: Most communities have a Chamber of Commerce. Some chambers publish a business magazine or maintain an Internet website. These publications have information on new businesses, industries and hiring opportunities. You can gain a lot of contacts by reading these publications, attending chamber events or visiting their websites regularly.
Professional Associations: If you have chosen a general career field, it is helpful to know the professional associations related to this field. You can use the association as a resource or become a member. When you belong to an organization you will be informed of major conferences and other networking opportunities.
Libraries: Consider visiting the public and your University’s Library to help your job search. Libraries contain a multitude of resources on career research, companies, industries and associations.
Yellow Pages: Use the Yellow Pages and business sections to identify companies and organisations that might be seeking individuals with your skills. The Yellow Pages may help you identify smaller companies or businesses that may not be listed in employer directories.
