Helpful Hints for the Job Hunt

Whether you are a recent college graduate or a restless young adult in the middle of a misfit career, you may feel the itch to start a new job search for your ambitious career goals. If you feel the itch to step out and find a rewarding new job or career, remember that you and the other applicants start at the same level ground. You will want to manage your job search in such a way that you unlevel the playing field and climb ahead of the other applicants. If you feel a little rusty on the employment basics, the following helpful hints will help you find the right job, make a grand impression, and land the office with a view.

1. Ask God for direction. As you begin your job search, pray that the Lord will show you His will for your life. Take the time to pray, seek spiritual counsel, and read the Word.
2. Know your “employment” self. One of the keys to job hunting is to know what personal strengths you would bring to an employment opportunity. Before you send out that first resume or take that first interview, know who you are. Whatever your strengths are, take a few moments to write down every talent you have that would make you more attractive to an employer. If you can’t think of any (which might prove to be a problem), ask your friends, parents, or professors to pinpoint some of your personal assets.
3. Know the job you are looking for. Sounds simple enough, huh? You’d be surprised by the number of people in the workplace still unsure about what they “really” want to do. Before you begin your search, you need another list of potential employers that would possibly be looking for candidates with your skills and educational background. That list will help you narrow your search criteria for the dream job you desire.
4. Create an impressive resume and cover letter. Your resume and cover letter are your sales pitches. It’s usually the first piece of work your potential employer will use to evaluate your skills. If these are unimpressive, show lack of organization, or have spelling mistakes, you are not getting an interview. When you begin creating these pieces, make sure it is a truthful and accurate representation of your work. Ask peers, family, past professors for feedback on how the resume and cover letter sell you as an employee.
5. Meet with all of the important people you know. Networking in your chosen field is key to finding the right fit for your life experiences. Often times, the people you know can introduce you to others in your desired field.
6. Dress professionally. You don’t have to wow your potential employer with designer labels, but like it or not, your first impression begins with what you’re wearing.
7. Send a thank-you note. It is not old-fashioned to send a thank-you note. And an email does not replace a card. After you interview, be sure to send a thank-you within a week. This will reflect positively on you, and shows seriousness, professionalism, and class - all qualities and employer wants to see in a future employee.
8. Be persistent. Despite hearing a negative, you cannot give up. Keep searching. Keep sending out resumes and going to interviews. No matter what happens during your search, you must continue with diligence to find the right fit for your passion and life purpose.