Job-Searching Tips for Dallas-Fort Worth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area experienced an unemployment rate near 6% during December 2008. That figure includes an estimated 185,600 job seekers.

Searching for employment is never an easy task, but it is especially difficult during this economic crunch. Try these five tips to successfully land a job in the Dallas metroplex.

Unique Help for Job Seekers in the Dallas Metroplex
With so many families directly affected by unemployment and a shrinking economy, job-hunting tips are common fodder for the local TV news stations. However, one news station, TXA 21, offers an alternative to the typical tips perpetually doled out from year to year.

TXA 21 wants to help local viewers stand out in the applicant pool and find a job. Each week, they choose one viewer's resume and briefly feature his or her story during the news broadcast and ads throughout the week. The tactic has already proven successful for three job hunters. To participate, e-mail your story and resume to itexas@ktxa.tv.

On March 5, 2009, the news station is hosting a free video resume fair from 5 to 9 p.m. Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex job seekers can visit the Dallas or Fort Worth studios to film a one minute video resume. TXA21TV.com will post the video resumes online. The CBS 11 Studios are located at 5233 Bridge Street in Fort Worth and the Dallas office is located at 10111 N. Central Expressway.

Want Ad Websites
The Internet makes it easier to apply to multiple jobs without wasting time and money pounding the pavement. Keep in mind, web listings may attract a large pool of applicants and employers sometimes list opening just to get a feel for who is available.

Monster.com offers career advice, resume and interview tips and job openings.

Careerbuilder.com lists job openings ranging from part-time to professional positions and advice for job seekers.

Permanent and seasonal positions with the city are available throughout the metroplex. Check listings for your own city as well as neighboring cities.

City of Arlington Job Line (817) 265-7938
City of Dallas Job Listings
City of Fort Worth Job Line (817)392-776
City of Grand Prairie Job Line (972) 237-8190

Seasonal Job Openings at Dallas-Fort Worth Attractions
Check with local attractions such as the Ballpark in Arlington, Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor for seasonal employment. Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie hosts job fairs throughout the month of March. Check their website for additional information.

Use Social Networking Sites to Find a Job
Join social networking sites to meet new business contacts and get inside information on job leads. Keep your profile and posts professional and cast yourself in the best possible light.

Create a Blog to Find a New Job
Websites such as blogger.com and wordpress.com offer free blogs to members. Create a niche blog that highlights your talent and skills for potential employers. Do not invite spam by listing your private contact information. Instead, use a contact form such as this one at emailmeform.com.

Sources
Personal Experience
"Economy At A Glance", bls.gov
TXA 21
"Workforce Services", ci.arlington.tx.us
"Human Resources", fortworthgov.org
"Contact Us", gptx.org