Job Search

Whether conducting a job search for the first time, moving into a higher position, or changing career fields, candidates undergo many of the same steps to gain a new position.  While technology has created more impersonal, standardized employment practices, it has also created a number of services that allow candidates to present themselves to employers.  Once candidates have identified what type of career they are interested in, it is important to research the occupation(s), and determine the focus for their career search.  Candidates are able to search for jobs in many ways including classifieds, via print or online, enlist the help of employment services, and/or network with others to find desirable openings. 

It is important to research companies and careers before taking the time to format a resume to certain guidelines.  When writing a resume, each should be specific for each individual position, and it may be helpful to have two or three different resume formats.  Ninety-eight percent of online and email resources accept plain text (no special text or characters) resumes, these are almost necessary to compose.  Formatted and scan-able resumes should be professional and polished and may contain graphics or special characters to enhance a candidate’s skills. 

Candidates may deliver resumes personally, via email, through online job boards, or by using the postal service.  A basic understanding of the interested position and company is generally helpful, especially when hand delivering resumes.  Employers may choose to conduct interviews on the telephone and/or in person, and some may conduct multiple interviews.  When being interviewed, Candidates should maintain a positive attitude, remain confident, and be prepared for questioning.

Candidates who are the most intense with their job employment search will likely yield the highest amount of satisfaction.  First impressions are important to employers; therefore, it is essential for candidates to professionally represent themselves, whether on paper or in person.  It is pertinent for candidates to remain objective and positive when searching for jobs and not to avoid careers they are interested in because they feel the position is above or below their skill level.   Employment ads are generally very concise and do not contain an entire job description, so a candidate may be cheating themselves out of a position that would be a perfect fit. 

Once employers search resumes and locate qualified applicants, interviews are commonly the next step.  It is important to be familiar with products and services that an organization provides, as well as understand the duties of the applied for position before being interviewed.  When arriving for an interview, be sure to remain conservative, avoiding flashy clothing or accessories that may distract or turn off the prospective employer. Prepared candidates will have the best prospects for employment. 

For more information, suggestions, and tips on performing a job search, please visit the following sites:

• Five O''Clock Club
• Impact Publications
• University of Pennsylvania Press
• Otis Collier
• Kogan Page

Visit iHireJobNetwork to begin your next job search.  We offer job postings in the following industries: health and social services, education, administrative, IT, engineering, science, law enforcement, finance, media, sales, marketing, construction, real estate, and hospitality.