How to Get a Job

Many job seekers experience frustration during the long hiring process. It’s essential to identify why this might be occurring and take appropriate measures to rectify it.

Networking can be one of the best ways to secure a job. Reach out to school alumni, colleagues and family members regarding openings at their companies.

1. Know What You Want

However, narrowing your search can save both time and stress. Start by reflecting upon your career goals to establish what types of jobs make you most excited as well as an ideal salary range.

Consider your past experiences to determine any technical or workplace skills you have acquired that would prove useful in a new role – these could come from school, volunteering, or daily life activities.

Hiring managers often conduct background checks before inviting candidates in for interviews. Be sure that your social media accounts are free from embarrassing pictures or political views that might make an interviewer question your trustworthiness. Also be prepared for any job interviews you attend even if it seems unlikely; practice answers to frequently asked interview questions with friends or family before having in-person or video interviews – always dress professionally!

2. Network

Networking can be one of the most powerful tools at your disposal when searching for employment, according to research; 80-85% of jobs are found through this method compared with only 2-4% found via online job boards.

Imagine your network as an invisible army ready to help you secure employment. Your primary network should be where you start gathering connections for job searching purposes – this might include current and former co-workers, friends from work and school, alumni groups, community organizations, the church you attend and social media connections – just to name a few examples.

Do not be shy to reach out and seek assistance; just make sure that your request does not consume all their time with endless inquiries. Networking should always be seen as a relationship-building exercise; having coffee with someone in your network might just be what’s needed to secure that dream job!

3. Apply

No matter if it be online, via email or on paper – applying for jobs can be lengthy and complex. To avoid mistakes along the way, ensure you know how to fill out job applications properly.

Resume writing should highlight your transferable skills while being tailored specifically to each position you apply for. Include information like relevant work experience and volunteer activities, professional accomplishments, education achievements, certifications earned and project descriptions in your application materials.

Many large employers provide the option of searching and applying for jobs online, depending on the company in question you may also have the chance to use an app on your smartphone or tablet for this.

Before applying, use CareerOneStop’s free application simulator to practice filling in and submitting an imaginary job application and practice filling it out successfully. Upload a cover letter when needed as well. Be sure to read each application’s directions thoroughly to avoid missing anything that could compromise your chances – this includes keeping copies of all applications, letters and emails in clearly labeled folders online or off.

4. Interview

Job interviews provide you with the chance to demonstrate how well you communicate your work experience in terms that make sense for the position at hand. Your interviewer will pose questions and expect you to provide thoughtful responses that demonstrate an interest in their company and that your skills and interests align with their requirements.

Be sure to respond clearly and succinctly when answering all questions posed about your work experience, using examples from work as support. Once practiced, have someone else assist in answering these queries in order to give an effective response.

Maintain appropriate body language during an interview by smiling and shaking hands firmly when greetings are extended to you. Make sure that someone in the room serves as your note taker, taking notes as you speak. Before leaving, ask what the next step in the process will be and express interest in taking on this job; don’t forget to be courteous when exiting and shake hands with anyone you encounter as you leave!