There has been a lot of coverage in the media surrounding the job market and the high level of competition job seekers face. This is true in some aspects, although there are numerous employers looking to fill positions and new job opportunities are posted on the Internet every day.
Also, many industries are growing and employers are looking for qualified workers. Recently there was a CareerBuilder and CareerRookie.com survey, which revealed that “employers (54 percent) reported they plan to hire recent…graduates in 2012, up from 46 percent in 2011, 44 percent in 2010 and 43 percent in 2009”. This survey shows that grads and entry-level employees are in demand for new hires. If you are currently looking for a job, consider the following tips:
1. Be proactive in all aspects of the job search
Many times this involves taking several approaches to find companies that are hiring, creating connections with those companies, and networking in person. This can include joining social networks, volunteering your time, blogging, and talking to your current connections to see if they can assist in some way.
2. Don’t make excuses for yourself
When it comes down to it, you need to be accountable for making your job search successful. That means not giving up and putting in the time to change your resume, as well as your cover letter, for each job posting. Also, it involves applying for those jobs that you may not necessarily be a perfect candidate for and remaining optimistic about your job search. In all honesty, you are just looking for one job that fits your qualifications.
3. Pursue 2 or 3 companies for a job
This is easier than targeting the whole industry and not knowing who you are contacting. You can do this by contacting several people in leadership positions within those companies and making connections with them. They may not have a job for you right now, but if you show initiative and make a good impression then you may be offered a job down the road. People are more willing to engage with you concerning opportunities than you would expect.
4. Make sure to market yourself in interviews
Resumes get you the interview, but it is the impression you make, your communication skills, and your personality that gets you the job. Be prepared to answer questions about your strengths, weaknesses, success stories, and experiences. Explain what you can bring to the table and that you will immediately become an asset to the organization.
5. Show that you are excited to work for them
Express how you feel to the interviewer and that you are eager to work for them. Do your research and communicate what you can offer if you were hired.
