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Find The Job You Want
No matter what type of job you are looking for, there are general
guidelines you can follow to find work faster. Below are tips
that can help you with any job search.
Network: Most people find jobs through word-of-mouth. Talk to the
people you know, including relatives, friends, professors, and former
co-workers. Let them know that you are looking for work; ask their
advice; seek out introductions to people in the field that interests
you.
Customize: Create a custom version of your resume for each job or
industry that interests you. Your resume is usually an employers first
contact with you. Make sure it highlights your skills that relate to
the job that employer is seeking to fill.
Know yourself: Identify your skills. Work on communicating them
effectively. You need to be able to lay out your skills, and explain
how they relate to the job you're seeking.
Organize/Prioritize: Make a list to help keep track of your job
search efforts. Preparing a list also helps you to organize your
priorities and keeps you focused on your goal -- finding your perfect
job.
Research: Read the newspaper and trade journals to remain
current on developments in your field of interest. Knowing the latest
trends and mergers will help set you apart from other candidates in an
interview.
Practice, practice, practice: Preparation is the key to a successful
interview. Know your skills and be ready to illustrate how they relate
to the job in question. Practice with a friend to get comfortable with
your responses and to formulate strong answers to questions you might
not anticipate.
Follow up: Follow up on all leads as soon as possible. If you don't,
your competition may. And, following an interview, always send a
thank-you note the same day.
Keep your head up: Looking for a job can feel like a job in itself.
Don't let it get you down. With patience and hard work, you will find
the right job.
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What Employers Want
While many jobs require a unique set of skills, there is a pretty
standard set of qualities that most employers want in an employee.
Increase your chances of landing the job you want by highlighting your
"soft" skills as well as your technical skills in the interview.
Employers look for a variety of strengths, including:
Communication: You can communicate clearly and concisely both verbally
and in writing. You recognize that communication is a two-way street
and are able to listen and interpret effectively, as well.
Leadership: You take the lead and assume the responsibility to get
things done. You don't have to be a manager to be a leader; it is a
valuable skill in any job.
Problem-Solving: You can analyze and identify a problem and develop
effective solutions. You explore new and innovative ideas in addition
to tried-and-true solutions.
Confidence: You know and like yourself. You recognize your strengths
and know what you can accomplish.
Flexibility: You can "roll with the punches". You adapt easily to new
situations and are open to new ideas.
Energy: You are a hard worker. You are willing to put the time and
effort into accomplishing your objectives.
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