Job search tips

Tips for finding and landing a job

Everything is done online in today’s world. People shop online, rent movies online and even date online. Searching for a job is no different.

Job-placement organizations like Monster, CareerBuilder and HotJobs have been at the top of the heap in the quest to find a job without leaving the comfort of your computer.

What else can be done, however, to set you apart from the hundreds and sometimes thousands of other candidates who have also sent their resumes to the same potential employer?

Here are some strategies that can help you land that job of a lifetime:

Don’t stop with an electronic resume
Sometimes it's impossible to determine where you're sending your resume. Job-search organizations often keep the employer anonymous. Try to do some research after you apply for a job to find the company’s name so you can send a hard copy cover letter and resume. If possible, drop your resume and employment application by your potential employer in person (after you have put on a suit, of course!). Putting a face with a name never hurts.

Go directly to the source
While Monster and the other big recruiting firms are good resources for jobs in your field, companies also often post openings on their web site. Go online and do some research into companies that are located in your city (or in a city you would like to work). Try to find a contact name instead of just sending your resume to Human Resources. If you must, call the company and ask for a contact person in H/R or Recruiting who is handling your particular job opening.

Network, network, network
The old saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know” is quoted for a reason. Utilize your friends, family, teachers, and other contacts to let them know you are in the job market. Give them as many details as possible about the type of job you are seeking. Someone who knows you and can give you a good character reference can go a long way in opening a potential employment door.

Look at government sites
Visit your state government web site to look for potential jobs. Within the main state site (sc.gov, for example), are a number of employment links for government jobs that are often not posted on more well-known sites. Most government sites also give a detailed salary range with each position, which gives you a clear financial picture of the job.