I know, you're thinking applying for a job is pretty much a no-brainer. But like everything else that is important in life, there is an art to applying for a job. Read on for tips learned through years and years of trial and error, and even some successes.
As in every endeavor, it's always wise to begin at the beginning. Before you begin searching for jobs for which to apply, figure out what you can do, and what you have experience doing.
Begin with a resume.
The way to present yourself, your skills and your abilities is through a well-constructed, error free, neatly prepared resume. Do not state your objective. Your objective is pretty obvious: to get a job! List your past work experience, education and any relevant volunteer or community work. Use action oriented words: directed, supervised, implemented, revised, etc. Even if you worked in a fast food restaurant, you can say you prepared sandwiches, served customers, etc!
Use more than one source.
Don't rely on a single source of job listings. The local newspaper will have a fairly comprehensive listing of areas jobs available. Use several search engines, like monster.com, Craigslist
or Careerbuilder
as well. Network: Tell everyone you know you're looking for a job and go to job fairs sponsored by individual companies or industries.
Keep an open mind.
Don't set your mind on one industry or one or two companies. You might be surprised to find out how many different companies need someone who knows how to do what you're great at. Be willing to take a job in a related field, using some of your strongest skill sets. Many companies offer in-house training programs and opportunities for advancement and/or cross-training where you could broaden your skills. Be flexible.
Keep your search broad.
Read every job listing, under every category. Many jobs are misclassified for a variety of reasons. You might find a medical office administrator job under Medical or HVAC workers needed under electrical contracting. Keep your eyes open and be thorough.
Keep good records.
Get a notebook and write down the details of each job you apply for, including company name, position applied for and the date. Leave a few blank lines after the entry for recording interview or follow-up information. If you receive a “no-interest” email or letter, make a note of that as well.
Follow all directions.
Every job listing contains directions for applicants to follow. If the ad says include a cover letter, resume and salary requirements, you had better have all three in the package. The cover letter can be very brief, simply stating where the found the ad and the position for which you are applying. Use a proper format for the letter and include your contact information.
Indicate you have attached your resume, as requested in the ad, if that's the case. You can be very vague about salary requirements. You don't want to price yourself out of a job or offer to work for less than they had planned to pay. A statement like, “My salary requirements are open, and negotiable, based upon other benefits and job responsibilities.”
Be persistent.
It's easy to get discouraged. Keep at it and don't settle for less than you deserve. Follow these guidelines and remember: network, network, network.
Good luck with your job search.
