Job Searching Basics: What Are They?

It's very important for you to realize that there are job searching basics that should be followed as you get started looking for a job. Although time consuming and frustrating at times, following some of the basics will keep you motivated and positive throughout the job search.

Where do I start?
Make sure you really know yourself. There are a variety of tests and online assessments that you can take online. You must understand your job goals, what motivates you, if you work well with others, what is the best type of job for you and so on. Most major Internet job boards have some sort of free assessment that you can take. This will at least give you an idea of who you are, how you act and react, and what industries you are best suited for.

Who do you know?
It's been said that your job is usually just three people away from you, so, who do you know? Are you actively networking with your connections? We each, typically, know anywhere from 100 to 300 people. Take advantage of this knowledge.

If you are not yet networking on the Internet, go get busy! There are 1,000's of networking websites that will improve your chances of finding the job that is the best fit for you, and the people that can help you get connected to the hiring manager of that job. Get registered with LinkedIn, FaceBook, Twitter, MySpace, Digg, StumbleUpon, Ecademy, Fast Pitch and Networking For Professionals just to name a few.

Where should I post my resume?
Many professionals have differing opinions about where you should post your resume, with the concern that if you post everywhere, you'll look desperate. On the contrary, you should post your resume in as many places as you possibly can for the best potential exposure! The more you post, the better your chances of connecting with the right people and the right job. One question you should have is; what if I don't post my resume in as many places as I can? What will the results be? I think you know the answer to these questions.

What area of job searching should I focus on?
DO NOT rely on just one area! If all you do is read the newspaper, your results will be small and your job search will only last about an hour each day. Look at the newspaper and other employment publications. Talk with friends and family about positions they know of. Job searching on the Internet can be inundating at times, but you must seek out every potential job opportunity that is available to you. Use the Internet!

Television newscasts promote their own job boards on the morning news, so pay close attention to the news. They will usually have a "Job of the Day" and they will always give you their website address to search for positions. Local radio stations are doing the same. Your resources are really endless.

Do I need a "To Do" list?
YES! Create a space in your home where you can keep track of your job searching efforts. Stay organized. Keep track of everything you do and everyone you talk to. Keep a 'to do' list of the most important things you need to do each day so you can stay on track. Research the companies you will apply to by going to their website. Visit websites that will teach you things like resume writing and interviewing skills.

Finally, once you start getting interviews and going to them, don't forget to follow-up with each interviewer. Many people think that it's a complete waste of time to follow-up, as "no one will read my thank you note", or, "they won't even see my email." You could not be more wrong! Many employers EXPECT you to follow-up, and those who don't follow-up might be removed from the list of potential candidates. So, Follow-up!

Source: Steven Coyne, Job Hunter Group Blog