Career Corner: The job search evolution still uses old tricks

There can be no argument that the Internet has revolutionized our everyday lives. It has changed the way we buy a car, book a vacation or even look for employment. No doubt your parents have many suggestions as to how you should go about looking for work, but I'm willing to bet that the strategies that worked for them 20 years ago have evolved. Or, have they?

The traditional approach that comes quickly to mind is to read the want ads, send out a pile of resumes and wait. And, while this is still an option, there are a great many other alternatives that may be more effective. Keep in mind though that everyone's job search is different and what may work for one individual may not work for you. So, what you really need to decide is what combination of strategies you are going to focus your energy on. Accessing both advertised and unadvertised jobs is likely the best place to start.

Each day the Internet is evolving, new websites promising new miracle creams and quick ways to get rich abound. A Google search of “Canadian job sites” returned 50,100,000 in 0.36 seconds, which is enough to make your head spin. So, you really have to narrow it down by selecting some of the more useful sites such as the Fanshawe Career Services website, www.fanshawec.ca/careerservices. In addition to finding jobs both related and unrelated to your program of study, you can also access summer, part time and volunteer positions. Also listed on the site are many job search websites, links to newspapers and other useful employment resources.

When reviewing job postings sites, read every ad, don't evaluate a position on job title alone. Keep track of the positions that interest you and where you found them, bookmark them or print off a copy. If you think that you can do the job, have the educational requirements but are only lacking in the years of experience, apply anyway. Let the employer decide if you can or can't do the job, don't exclude yourself from the competition. After all you can't win the race unless you enter it. Tailor your cover letter and resume to each position you apply to. You have to let the employer know, what relevant experience and education you have that relates directly to them. If you want to impress them, then do the work needed to get and keep their attention. Gone are the days when one resume and cover letter will suit every position applied for. And, always make sure you follow up on each job that you apply to. Even if you aren't successful in arranging an interview, use the follow up as a way to network for future opportunities that may arise.

Accessing the hidden job market, the approximate 80 per cent of jobs that never get advertised can be more of a challenge. Try reading news sites and newspapers online, not just the want ads. Don't focus all of your time on the “Help Wanted” section, pay attention to what companies have announced they will be hiring, building new offices, expanding their products or services. Unlike your parents who relied on one daily newspaper, you have unlimited access to the news media.

Go big or go home! Use the Internet to research and broaden your job search area. Don't forget the best jobs aren't necessarily located on a bus route in your neighbourhood. Company information can be a big help when trying to tap into the hidden job market and is also critical research for you when you do get an interview. And, many companies have a “Careers” section right on their website so be sure to review the sites often for available openings.

Build a personal network of contacts that will provide you with introductions to others who can be of assistance. Contact family, friends, professors, former employers, co-workers, your physician, your hair stylist and so on and be prepared to follow up with them. Learn how to establish job contacts through conversations at professional associations, career fairs, and social engagements.

People in the industry that you want to work in can be valuable sources of information. Take the plunge and start making cold calls. Use the Internet to find companies in your area, contact them and ask to speak to the manager of the department that you would like to work in. For example, if you are an I.T. professional then ask for the manager of the I.T. Department, or similarly if you are looking for a sales position, ask for the sales manager. Talk directly to the person you most want to impress as they are the ones doing the hiring. Don't just send out resumes and cover letters to these people, call them to inquire if they anticipate any openings and if appropriate follow up with your resume and cover letter. Target your resume to those who either have openings, will consider you in the future, or are willing to pass your resume along to someone they know who might be interested in talking with you.

Consider working with a Temp or Employment Agency, as they can open the door to a wider range of jobs than you might think and aren't only looking for office workers or labourers. Contact them and arrange to send them a copy of your resume.

In the end, the strategies your parents used when they were looking for work likely hasn't changed all that much, it's how you go about it that's changed. Take advantage of technology, you'll be glad you did.

Need assistance? Drop by the Career Services office in Room F2010. Career Services staff are available to assist you on an individual basis. Visit the office to arrange an appointment with the consultant responsible for your program or call 519-452-4294. For job listings, visit www.fanshaweonline. ca or www.fanshawec. ca/careerservices