Rules for keeping search on track

Sunday, May 5, 2013

The economy is starting to turn around, but competition for open jobs remains fierce. For job hunters, the mental and financial stresses mount every day they remain unemployed. To keep job-search momentum high and attitudes positive, it's important to follow a few simple steps from the experts.

If you're looking for a job, follow Regional Director of Career Services at Brown Mackie College Chasity Trzop's top rules for job searching and you'll put yourself on the fast track to employment:

Get offline and score some face time: While the computer can be instrumental, a good job search utilizes additional tactics. In addition to passive job search tactics, such as doing online applications where there is heavy competition, also incorporate activities such as face-to-face informational interviews.

Treat job searching like a job: While working with graduates, Trzop reminds them that searching for a job is a job in itself, and should be treated as such. A good rule of thumb is to do 10 things each day in support of your job search.

Join professional associations and network: Students at Brown Mackie College learn the importance of building professional networks, and the same holds true for any job hunter. The affiliations are indispensable when searching for employment. Attending association functions or business open houses puts you in front of people who may be hiring.

Use the phone to your best advantage: Trzop tells graduates to keep in touch. For example, after meeting people in your industry of interest, call them to solidify the relationship. Ask for information on which companies may be hiring.

- Brandpoint