There is no question that we have, at our fingertips, one of the most revolutionary methods of looking for employment: Googling. Using the Internet is a great way to access advertised jobs or to research employers, so make sure you are utilizing all the online resources you can, such as job search sites, job search engines, networking sites and resume posting sites. Googling can be considered something of a pastime, so make sure that you focus your job search by using appropriate search words. "Jobs in Canada" is too large to search for, but searching for job specific titles and locations won't be as overwhelming. Remember if you want to increase the chances of getting a job, you need to balance searching for advertised jobs with an active approach to networking in the hidden job market.

Here are some steps to get you started:

1. Resume and Covering
Letter: To conduct an effective job search it is imperative you have a winning resume and covering letter. Need assistance? Check out the information on how to write resumes and covering letters distributed by Fanshawe's Career Services Office located in Room D1063. Ask to have your resume critiqued by the Career Services Consultant responsible for your program, or go online and Google "Resumes and Covering Letters" for sample formats.

2. Research your chosen field. Develop a list of employers either by location or industry. Search for directories, professional associations, publications or the newspapers as possible sources.

3. Narrow down your list.
Focus on only 20 or so employers from your list at one time. Break the task down into smaller ones by not focusing on too many employers at once. Once you have your list, start finding out specific details about the organization by visiting their web pages.

4. Accessing advertised jobs.
There are a number of sites that post graduate employment opportunities. Fanshawe Career Services posts all jobs directly to our job posting system that you can access at www.fanshaweonline.ca or www.fanshawec.ca/careerservices. Also check out the "Related Job Search Websites" link for useful links to other job posting sites, directories and other resources.

5. Following up.
Keep track of who you sent your resume to. Contact them by email or telephone approximately four to seven days later and inquire about the status of your application. Offer to answer any questions they may have and express your interest in arranging an interview.

6. Network to access the hidden job market.
Approximately 80 per cent of jobs never get advertised. Your first step in developing a network to help you in your job search is to gather information. This means developing a list of everyone you know including friends, relatives, professors, former employers, fellow classmates, social groups, professional associations etc. Call or email these people and explain that you're not asking them for a job, but rather gathering information to learn more about a job. Be candid and ask for some advice in your work search.

Accessing information has never been easier or more readily available and you need to realize that many employers are also becoming more savvy in their search for suitable employees. If you have a Facebook page and you're job searching, you may have heard that you need to be careful about the information you post. Hiring managers can and will check the web for information about prospective candidates, and Facebook is among the sites they are checking. You do need to be careful about what information (and pictures) you make public and private. A sure way to be eliminated from a job competition is to have embarrassing pictures of yourself out there for all to see. Go ahead, Google yourself, and then answer this question ... "Would you hire this person?"

Got questions or need help in your job search? Drop by the Career Services office located in Room D1063. Career Services staff are available to assist you on an individual basis. Visit the office in D1063 to arrange an appointment with the consultant responsible for your program or call 519- 452-4294. For Fanshawe student job listings visit www.fanshaweonline.ca or www.fanshawec.ca/careerservices