Self Analysis

If you choose to be a Bum, Entrepreneur or a Student then you should stop reading this article and continue to pursue the career path that you chose. However, if you choose to become a Young Professional continue reading because all the information you need to get hired is in this article.

Preparation

Why do we need to prepare before job searching? Because Companies/Employers are very selective and among the numerous numbers of applicants they have they will choose the most deserving and who will make their company more productive. They are not looking to teach you, they are looking to get instant results from you. The other reason is competition, if you had an experience in working you may have a distinct advantage but nevertheless it is still the Companies/Employers that will have the decision when hiring an applicant.

Looking For a Company

where do we look for companies that are hiring? A lot of companies post their job vacancy in, for example, newspaper ads, radio, TV, job fair, employment agencies, Internet, and if you're University have College Placement Office they can provide you a job vacancy listing also. Another way of looking for a company is through Networking, when looking for a company you must always be resourceful; ask the people you know that is working for a company if they have an opening. When you find a company then you must prepare for the next step.

I prefer a hand-written method of acknowledging the interview, but there are situations where all communication has taken place via email and in that case it may be appropriate to email a thank you to the interviewer.

It's a good idea to include something positive about the company that came to light in the interview, or something you discovered on your own. Be genuine in your compliments, and don't over do it. If you had a good rapport with the interviewer, indicate that you appreciate how they put you at ease, and how comfortable you felt discussing the position with them.

An indication of the specific ways you and your skills can benefit the company is always a good idea. Sometimes dozens of applicants are interviewed and a quick reminder of who you are and what you can bring to the table could make all the difference.

A thank you note gets the attention of a potential employer. I have received job offers, or at least second interviews on many occasions where I was told I was the only person who sent a thank you note after the first interview. I repeat: I was told this during second interviews and/or upon receiving a job offer!

Here's a suggested, albeit generic, thank you note.

Dear Interviewer,

I enjoyed meeting you today and appreciate your time in discussing the position of [new company employee]. The position sounds both challenging and interesting.

I believe I am an ideal candidate for the position in light of my past job experience as a [web designer for a small business owner] and as [web master for my church's website]. My creativity and originality will allow me to contribute to revamping [Potential Company] web presence.

I look forward to hearing from you regarding your plans for the next step of the hiring process. Thank you again for your time and interest.

Sincerely,

Job Applicant

Be sure to sign your note. Use a good quality paper or note card.

Good Luck in your Job Search!

Observe first

You may have graduated with honors and you may have been the best in school but your co-employees don't need to know how good you are on your first day. Young employees sometimes feel the need to flap their wings a bit just to show that they are capable of handling bigger responsibilities. Being an insufferable show off however on your first few days may not necessarily earn you the respect of your colleagues. In fact, they may feel just a wee bit irritated by all the noise you're making.

The key is to observe how things are done at first. Relax and don't be too over eager. Once you get the hang of the corporate culture, you'll know how to best use your stunning abilities to your advantage.

Let your actions speak

Rather than brag about how many medals you've got framed back home, let your co-employees be the judge of your abilities. Make sure that you do your work diligently, conscientiously and correctly and people will start to appreciate you even if they never knew you were really good to begin with.

Follow at first

Yes, it may be good to have your own ideas and to voice them out at the right time. Some companies in fact prefer fresh new employees who are vocal and driven. In other cases however, it would be a good idea to simply just follow orders and instructions first. Do not openly contradict or oppose your boss and superiors on your first week unless you are asked to give your opinion or unless you are asked to do something illegal. If their instructions are work related, then just do as you are told. The time will come when you will have earned their respect. When that time comes, you will have earned the right to speak up.

Keep things to yourself

One of the best job related tips is to keep your personal life, the lives of others and your negative opinion of others to yourself. Corporate gossip is never a good thing to help propagate. It is a great way to stir a hornet's nest and for you to earn the ire of your colleagues and the disgust of your boss.

Check your attitude at the door

There are just some people who are so easy to get along with. One of your first objectives should be to learn how to be that kind of person. Try to make friends and get along well with your co-workers and your boss. This is usually easier to do if you leave your “attitude” and your prima dona complex at the door. Getting along well with everyone is the best way to ensure that you will have a happy life at work.