Marianne Marquez

Topic: Job Search

Definition:
Job search means an instance of active contact with a potential employer to
apply for a job, and includes a contact by phone or in person, by submitting a written
application, or by attending a job interview.

Job Search Strategies:

1. Finding a Job- Finding a suitable job opening itself can be a time-
consuming process. Here are a few resources to get you started:
- Job boards
- Specialty job lists
- Company, organization and government web sites
- Your own network
- Your college
2. Conducting a Self-Inventory- As you work on your resume, you may worry
that you have nothing valuable to include, or you may worry that you are
“bragging.” One way to get over these hurdles is to allocate pre-writing time
to a self-inventory. Brainstorm your skills, accomplishments and knowledge.
What did you accomplish at work, school, or a volunteer position? What skills
have you learned? What would you tell a friend or family member you were
proud of having achieved there?
3. Researching your Potential Employer- It is important that you research
your potential employer as well as the job for which you’re applying. The
easiest way to research a potential employer is to visit the company’s website.
4. Researching the Potential Job- To research the job itself, take advantage of
the job description you have found. The job description is your secret weapon;
in this document, you are told what the employer is looking for in a candidate.
Print out the job description and annotate it; get into a conversation with it:
- Highlight or underline any qualifications that you hold
- Make note of any past achievements that relate to any of the preferred
qualifications.
- Circle any key terms you might use in your own materials.
- Note any questions/uncertainties and any qualifications you do not
have in order to decide what to highlight and what to downplay in your
materials

Job Search Methods:

1. Networking- Networking is the most effective way to learn about careers
and ultimately to land a job. Research consistently shows that networking
leads to a job far more often than other job search methods such as responding
to postings, attending job fairs or sending out unsolicited resumes.
2. Executive Recruiters- Executive recruiters, also known as “headhunters,”
can be an excellent source of job leads. They usually recruit for more senior,
higher-salary positions. Recruiters work for themselves and are paid by the
company doing the hiring.
3. Job Fairs- Job fairs can be a good source of job leads for recent graduates
and those in “hot” fields. Check with the sponsoring organization for a list of
participating companies and the jobs open.
5 Important Documents for Job Searching:
1. Resume
Resumes tell the employer about your experiences, skills and work
history. Use your resume to highlight items that indicate you are a good
worker, are qualified for the position and bring desirable skills to the job. If
you are a student and have little or no previous job experiences, enhance
information about your school and community activities.
Personal Information
Objectives
Education
Work and Related Experience
Skills

2. Cover Letter
This is your chance to let employers know that you’re the best
candidate for the job. Your cover letter doesn’t have to be long—three
paragraphs is enough to make your point. Start with a professional greeting
and explain why you’re interested in the position. Next, explain why your
work experience and professional or educational accomplishments are a
perfect match to the job. Close out the letter thanking them for their
consideration and providing your contact information in case they choose you
for an interview.

3. Letter of Recommendation
A recommendation is a letter from a former employer, co-worker, or
instructor that speaks highly of your work ethic. It should highlight your
accomplishments and your strengths as a professional or student. This letter
will tell employers what it’s like to work with you and manage you, and how
you might fare in the position. Always take the opportunity to ask for letters of
recommendation when you can. You never know when you may need them.

4. References
This is usually a short list of your former employers, but employers
may also ask for current or past co-workers, or just someone outside of your
family who can vouch for your character. References work similar to a
recommendation letter. The employer will contact them and ask them
questions about what it’s like to work with you and what you’ve accomplished
in the past.

5. Thank-you Note
A thank-you note is a final chance to express your interest in the
position and your gratitude for the opportunity to be considered for it. Many
candidates forget to follow up, so a bit of thanks can help you stand out from
your competition.