The secret to hunting for a job is to network! Research shows that only 20% of all jobs get advertised in newspapers or online job recruitment websites. Networking is the art of building alliances. By tapping into this “hidden job market” you will make your next job search easier.
When you begin your job search, think of all the people you know – relatives, friends, professors, classmates, and co-workers. You should make an effort to meet these people and ask them for their advice and take the opportunity to let them know that you are currently in the market for a job. A lot of jobs don’t get advertised because most can be filled by recommendations from existing employees, so don’t be shy of letting everyone know about the kind of role you’re after.
Canvassing employers
Direct contact (by
telephone, or in person)
This job hunting method
requires you to contact
the employer who has the
power to hire you.
Remember if you decide
to go via this route,
you will need to provide
evidence of how you will
be an asset to the
company.
Employment websites
Employment websites is
the ultimate way of
searching for jobs
online. Most have
facilities for alerts,
where-by a job
description fitting your
ideal job can be emailed
to you directly. You can
also upload your resume
and cover letters so
that prospective
employers can view them.
Recruitment agencies
Recruitment agencies are
similar to employment
websites, however with
recruitment agencies you
usually work closer with
the recruiter. There are
literally hundreds of
recruitment agencies in
Melbourne and around
Australia. You need to
register with the
recruitment agency of
your choice. Once you
have registered they
will contact you if they
feel you are suitable
for a particular job.
Target your resume – when preparing for resumes, make sure it’s targeted for a particular job. Don’t just use the same resume for 10 different jobs.
Be prepared – Have your resume with you at all times, also it is a good idea to have fresh copies of you resume prepared in case you are called up for an interview at the last minute.
Have a buddy system – it is always a good idea to catch up with friends that are also looking for jobs. Arrange a weekly, fortnightly meeting to exchange advice and talk about accomplishments, strategies, and plans.
Follow leads immediately - If you find out about a position late in the day, call right then. Don't wait until the next day.
Know your industry - you should remain up-to-date on current issues or development in your field. Having knowledge of the latest coup in the industry is one way to impress an employer during an interview.
Stay confident – Job hunting is almost a full time job in itself. So be prepared to tough it out. Don’t be disgruntled if you get rejected, get back up and try again. It is not uncommon for job seekers to take up to 3-6 months to find the right job.
