How to Get Hired

Land the job you deserve

It may be a difficult task but you can find the job you want, even in hard economic times. Follow these tips to spot opportunities, get your foot in the door and distinguish yourself from the pack.

 

1. Craft an eye-catching résumé

Rewrite your résumé for each job you apply to so your relevant qualifications jump out. Look for key words in the job description, and appropriately pepper your application with them. Wherever possible be specific—note relevant skills and turn your duties into particular accomplishments.

Get free resume help from pros

Sites like careerbuilder.com and monster.com have services that can teach you how to make a readable, professional-looking résumé and lay out your qualifications most effectively.

• BONUS TIP: Your résumé should be easy to navigate and no more than one page unless you’ve been in the industry more than 10 years.

2. Maximize your online search

Check in with several Internet job boards each week to make sure you see as many listings as possible. In addition to Craigslist, Monster and CareerBuilder, look at aggregator sites like SimplyHired. Be sure to check local and industry specific sites.

• Check out our complete list of job sites.

Be proactive

If there aren’t listings that match your qualifications, many sites will allow you to post your résumé so employers can find you when positions become available. Do this in addition to actively pursuing new openings.

• BONUS TIP: If you want to work for a certain company, look for postings on its website (most have a “careers” tab on the home page).

3. Research companies that interest you

Find out everything you can about a business, its products and services, and what skills will be most valued in the position you want. If you know people at your target firm, ask them about what the company looks for in a new hire.

• BONUS TIP: Program Google Reader to send you news about companies you’re watching and any new products they launch.

4. Reach out to your peers

Talk to people at your yoga class, church, neighborhood playgroup, family gatherings—you never know when a friend or relative is in a position to help you.

The more people you talk to about your goals, the greater your chance of scoring a lead.

 

Find a local networking group

Ask your chamber of commerce or search the list of career associations at CareerOverview. Then attend every meeting and event—these ready-made opportunities help build relationships with people on a similar career path.

• BONUS TIP: Women tend to network with other women at their own level. Approach people further up the ladder who can help you.

5. Network online

Like a professional version of Facebook, LinkedIn can help you get the inside scoop on job listings or catch the eye of a recruiter.

• Learn how to build a better LinkedIn profile.

6. Request information interviews

Reach out to a manager in your field for a meeting. You can gain valuable insights and a new connection, just make sure you have done your research and are prepared to ask good questions about the company. Also, be able to articulate what kind of job you’re looking for in the future.

Generate goodwill

Never ask someone you’ve just met for a job. You’re after career advice and contacts, but you have to build trust and demonstrate competence before anyone will give you a lead.  Instead, try to find a way to be helpful that has nothing to do with your job hunt.

• BONUS TIP: Send a thank-you note—it shows the person you are conscientious and helps keep you fresh in their mind if a position opens.

7. Create your own way in

Don’t let the lack of full-time positions deter your search. To get a feel for the firm, consider any internship, temporary or freelance opportunities. Most large companies tend to hire from within and you’ll have an advantage when a job is available. Or, try to volunteer in your field. Not only will you meet new people, you also will fill time gaps in your résumé.

Stay motivated

Access helpful advice and coaching at careeronestop.org, the career center at your college (even if you didn’t graduate) and your local public library—most offer support, training and other job information. Also, use your family and friends as support. Need help? Try our tips to power through your job hunt.