Can't find a job? How to conduct a successful job

Can't find a job? How to conduct a successful job search

There's no denying that unemployment is rising dramatically. If you've been laid off, you may be eligible to collect unemployment benefits, but everyone knows that unemployment benefits amount to just a fraction of what your income was while working. If you can't find a job, perhaps you need a new strategy.

While you may be applying for every job opportunity, you may be wasting much of your time applying for jobs for which you are either overqualified or unqualified. If you can't find a job within a month of diligent searching, it's easy to become desperate. The stress and pressure of trying to meet financial obligations leads many people to discard a targeted job search strategy and apply for every job listed in the paper.

For example, if your usual employment is in accounting, but you can't find a job in your field, now is not the time to apply at gas stations or fast food places. The prospective employer will look at your resume and conclude that you won't stay with them long. As soon as you do find a job that matches your skill set, you'll be gone. Here we offer some suggestions on how to conduct a successful, targeted job search that gets you back in the work force in the least amount of time.

1.Get your resume in perfect condition. Using the accounting example, let's say you're proficient in most areas of accounting. While your resume should always be truthful in reflecting your knowledge and experience, you may want to create several resumes, each stressing a different facet of your skills. If an employer advertises for someone with heavy experience in accounts receivable, position your accounts receivable experience in the first line of each job description, placing a bit more emphasis on that phase of your previous jobs. This assumes you do know A/R inside and out. If you're sending your resume to an employer looking for a payroll position, modify your resume to detail that experience prominently.

2.Don't confine yourself to the local classifieds. If you can't find a job locally, post your resume on the online job boards. Depending on your line of work, DICE and craigslist may turn up some good leads. Search through job offers on craigslist and submit a posting in its 'services offered' category as well. If you're an accountant, post a listing for all of the services you're qualified to provide.

3.Network! Both social and business contacts can help spread the word. This can prove to be a fruitful strategy. People who know you personally are more likely to make a concerted effort to help you find a job.

4.Target successful online businesses which might make use of your job skills. While you may not get full time work, acquiring several online clients may result in a full time income. Tailor your query to each business on an individual basis. Just as in a face-to-face interview, your prospective client will appreciate the fact that you took the time to research their business and understand their objectives. If you can't find a job through any other avenue, this step can help you build a business that sustains you over the long term.

5.Use the services offered at your local Department of Employment. Some offer free or low cost training services to increase your chances of landing a job. The personnel can also offer valuable advice on how to leverage your skills and polish your resume.

6.Sign up with some of the temp agencies. Many employers use temp agencies to find permanent employees.

Finding a job can be a full time occupation in itself. If you can't find a job, it may be due to your strategy. Once you've got your resume in order, follow up on each of the remaining steps, aggressively and concurrently. Keep a positive attitude! Good luck!