Where are the Jobs?

Most people look at jobs advertised in the Sunday newspapers. Sometimes they read free local papers. There are many applicants and selection is limited. By utilizing all methods a Human Resource Director or Business Owner would use to find employees, the chances of finding work increase exponentially.

1. On-line classifieds are appealing because they are inexpensive and reach many people. Myspace and craigslist offer jobs in cities all over the world. Yahoo and Google also have jobs listings. A person creates job search engines by location, salary and category. As more people become computer literate, these posting are generating as much interest as newspapers ads.
2. Trade journals and magazines include classifieds and also generate a national readership. This helps limit the focus to a specific field; however, applicants may have to move or commute to work. Check the back of the magazine before buying. Not all trade journals and magazines include classifieds. Sometimes classifieds are filled with gimmicks or limit scope to certain personality types.
3. Workforce centers help track down a local jobs. They have many job-listings in a region or city. Workforce centers also provide testing. Standardized government tests provide necessary documentation of basic skills. I have only found one job through workforce centers; however, typing tests opened several doors to find work on my own.
4. Bulletins boards are helpful. They are found at spas, universities, coffee shops or clubs. People post flyers on the bulletin boards. Human resources prefer this type of marketing when looking for a certain type of employee. They want interns, athletes, bookstore assistants from the local area. By knowing this type of person goes to these places they save recruiting costs and find suitable candidates.
5. A company's website is one of the best ways to find a job. Apply with them before they know they needed you. Most companies have websites; however, it might be important to apply at their office. I have successfully gotten jobs this way. I managed to apply when they were looking for someone. The manager even mentioned they were in the middle of preparing an ad for the newspaper during the interview.
6. Go to neighborhood shops. Ask if they are hiring. Talking directly to a manager is wonderful. If they are not looking for people, another location down the street is hiring. They also specify which jobs are currently open. This method helps identify corporate culture and is similar to a first interview, so dress accordingly.
7. Referrals are a bonus. If you hear about a job from someone else, it might be a good idea to apply. However, think about who is referring you and why they are referring you. A lot of corporations want to establish one-on-one relationships between employees. Knowing other employees creates a comforting atmosphere and making work enjoyable; therefore, past and new employees stay with the company longer.

There are many methods to advertise work: classifieds, Internet, magazines, workforce centers, bulletin boards, company websites, on location and referrals. With all of these places to find work, someone will be hiring and they want competent, qualified employees.

Related Article
Personal Image
Strategic Referrals