No matter what your level of education, or whether you are looking for temporary employment or an entry-level career position, you need to know a few basic tips about looking for a job.  Before you begin looking, you might want to ask yourself the following questions:

• What are my strengths?
• What do I enjoy doing?
• How do I want to spend my day – in an office, on the road, or outdoors?
• What type of house do I like to keep?
• What type of work can I get the most satisfaction from while still earning sufficient income?
• Am I willing to commute?
• Do I like to work with people, computers, books, animals or plants?
• Do I mind (or would I miss) business travel?

Where to Start
To identify prospective employers, be creative in your search.  Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Use the Internet to find websites that offer both job openings and job-finding tips.
• Check newspapers, business periodicals, industry publications, and employment reference guides at your local library.
• Talk to people working in the field that interests you.  Or, talk to people at the company where you would like to work.  Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance; many people will be flattered that you’re interested.
• To connect with others in your field, join networking groups; attend job fairs and professional seminars.  To locate these sources, check the Internet, your telephone directory and the events calendar in the current issue of National Business Employment Weekly at your local library.  You can also contact your local Chamber of Commerce, Small Business Administration, community college career placement center, your college alumni association, and any professional organizations to which you belong.
• Establish a mass mailing campaign.  Make a list of possible employers; send them a personalized cover letter and your resume and follow up with a phone call.
• Let others know you are looking.  Put the word out among friends, family, and fellow members of professional organizations.  Most people prefer to hire someone personally recommended or known by someone they trust and respect.
• Enlist the services of one or more professional organizations.  If you do seek professional assistance, schedule free sessions with reputable agencies that specialize in your field.  Find out their job placement procedures and whether you or a potential employer pays the fees.  Some options:
  • State employment agencies
  • Private employment agencies
  • Executive recruiters
  • Temporary-help organizations
  • Career counselors

The growing nationwide network CareerOneStop, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, provides help finding jobs, training, career counseling, and other employment services.  Learn more at www.careeronestop.org.*