Job hunting: the keys to your success

Job hunting requires time and organization. Here are a few tips that will help you transform your search into a find.

Whether you’re new to the job market or trying to transition into a different career, the best approach to finding work is to think about what you bring to the table before you actively begin job hunting.

• Identify your areas of interest and your preferences. Do you enjoy physical work? Office work? Working outdoors? Do you prefer to work alone? As part of a team? With lots of latitude or close guidance?

• Make a list of your strengths, skills and achievements. Are you good with your hands? Do you have strong math or language skills? Do you have the experience required to manage a team or to organize events? What are you the most comfortable doing?

• Assess your real needs. Are you ready to work more hours for a higher salary? Are you looking for a regular daytime schedule with fixed hours? Do you prefer a flexible schedule? Knowing your needs can help you focus on a specific employment sector.

Once you’re ready to begin job hunting, check out job search websites and employment agency sites regularly.

• Register for web alerts and take your CV to a recruiter.
• When a suitable job announcement comes up, read the requirements closely.
• Write a job-specific cover letter in which you highlight your assets and any pertinent experience.

Companies don’t always post vacant positions.

• Recruiting often happens from within an organization, so be sure to keep your eyes and ears open at your present job.
• Some companies even offer bonuses to employees who recommend future colleagues.
• That’s all the more reason to express an interest in moving up with those around you and to extend your contacts network.

It can’t be said enough – the bigger your network of contacts, the more chances of success you’ll have when you’re job hunting.

• Talk to friends, family and to everyone you know as soon as the occasion presents itself.
• Take part in networking meetings in your areas of interest.
• Volunteer a few hours of your time in your area of expertise each week. In addition to acquiring new experiences, you’ll extend your circle of acquaintances.
• Don’t ignore the social media possibilities. Job hunting methods have evolved with time and nowadays, social media can be very useful. In addition to increasing your visibility, it can help you stay in the loop about job openings at your targeted companies.

Above all, don’t get discouraged if results don’t come right away. Several factors may be at play:

• Take stock regularly in order to try and understand what may not have worked.
• Adjust your job hunting efforts, if required.
• Keep in mind that an employment agency may help you find the job you’re looking for; make an appointment and see what they can do for you.