Job Search Tips

If you have recently found yourself out of work, or if you've been out of the workforce for a substantial length of time and want to return, chances are good that you're anxious to land a steady job. Below are some helpful tips to aid you in your job search to ensure that you are successful.

First, if you were laid off from your previous job, be sure to file for unemployment benefits before you do anything else. Finding a new job may take some time, and the unemployment process usually takes awhile to process. You want to ensure that if you don't find a job right away, that you will have some sort of income to hold you over until you become employed.

Keep your resume up to date at all times. Keep all of the necessary paperwork ready and be prepared because you never know when the perfect opportunity will arise. You don't want to miss your ideal job because you weren't prepared. Also, you may want to consider keeping several different copies of your resume and cover letter to suit different job searches. In the long run, this saves you the time of editing each time you apply for a different job.

Save time by signing up for job search websites that will email you when jobs that you are qualified for become available. Make use of all of the free websites out there. Check out your county website - they often have employment search assistance programs where you can possibly even receive free training. Go beyond the big name job search sites like Monster.com and Jobs.com to the smaller, more geographically specific sites like Craigslist.com.

Always be sure that your voice mail is professional and that it is functioning properly so that you can respond to any calls in a timely manner. It is a good idea to give your cell phone number as your contact number so that employers can contact you directly.

Finally, remember that there are many job openings that simply aren't advertised. Use word of mouth by telling everyone that you know that you are looking for work. Ask if they or someone they know can help. Personally visit any local businesses or places of employment and ask if they are hiring or if they know of anyone who is. Take a few copies of your resume with you to hand out, mentioning that even if they have no openings now, to keep you in mind for anything in the future. Sometimes, a bold first impression will get you noticed, and they will remember you later when they are in need of someone new.

Tofer has been working as a home and office consultant for the past 15 years. He is happily retired and writes articles and weblogs in her downtime. His newest interest is in garden lighting. Come check out his website to learn more at http://www.gardenlightingsale.com

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