The Job Search

Tips for Finding the Perfect Job

1. Define the Perfect Job for you. You can waste time chasing a job opening that’s a long commute or way below your salary requirements. If there are aspects of a job that you hate, add those to your description of what to avoid in the perfect job. Once you have your list for the perfect job, identify aspects you can and cannot compromise on. You may enter a company in a position that transitions to your “perfect” job.

2. Take advantage of any networking opportunities. Join associations, take classes, and attend workshops. Try to initiate discussions about companies that are hiring, staffing agencies being utilized, and work conditions.  If you get out and talk to people, job opportunities will present themselves.

3. Keep your resume updated. Prepare an email version with working links, and a paper version. Keep a file with paper copies in your car just in case you meet a contact unexpectedly.

Also, you should have different versions of your resume for different positions. Examples would be a resume for a web design firm and a resume for a sales position at a software company.

Don’t miss any opportunities to have your resume critiqued. Keep perfecting it.

4. Keep your portfolio updated. Feature your newest, best work. 

5. If the hiring market is slow, keep training. If you learn about job requirements you don’t meet, consider training to improve your hiring prospects down the line.

Here’s an interesting website on the job search:

http://www.workcoachcafe.com/2009/09/08/how-to-find-the-perfect-job-in-10-agonizing-steps/