The current economic downturn has resulted in an extremely bleak environment for employment. In order to survive in this economy and land the employment that you desire there are several tips and tricks you must utilize. This article is loaded with proven and effective employment advice, so read it very carefully.
When you are at an interview, relax. It can be really difficult to relax during an interview, but remember this: you will either get the job, or you will not. Your focus should be on presenting your best self, and worry about whether you’ll get the job later on, when you’re done.
Ensure that all of your initial points of contact with potential employers are appropriate. When prompted to leave a voice message, what do callers hear: your name and instructions, or a clip of your favorite pop song? As for your email, do you use a professional address? If not, it’s time to adopt a more grown-up moniker. Avoid usernames containing offensive words, misspellings and unflattering language.
When you are applying for a job, make sure that the job will make you happy. Often you will become so concerned with the amount of money the job pays, that you will disregard the quality of life that it will bring you. Always balance the monetary and practical benefits of a job.
You must always make sure to try to keep things professional and conflict-free with your fellow coworkers. Being able to work and play well with others is of the utmost importance in the job world. This will help you find a new job in a snap.
Make sure you highlight the qualities you have that they are looking for in the cover letter of your resume. For example, mention great leadership skills if that is what they are looking for. Make yourself stand out in the cover letter by using details that are listed in the ad.
One of the best ways for you to get your name out there is to advertise yourself online through LinkedIn. On this site, you can showcase your resume and all that you have to offer. Also, you can make contacts, who can be very valuable to you when you are job searching.
Make certain that you bring a list of your references with you on the day of the interview if you did not already list them on your resume. This list will help the interviewer get an idea of the person you are, as your references should include names and telephone numbers for follow-up.
When applying for a job, check out the financial statements to determine if the company is doing well or not. It is important to situate yourself in a company that is growing, rather than one that is on the decline. This is vital for your future and the potential success you will have at the company.
If your company sponsors volunteer opportunities for its employees to participate in, get involved. This will expand your network of business contacts within your company. The more people know who you are, the easier it will be for you to move around in your company. Including this experience in your resume will also show that you are a well-rounded person, which is a good trait in an employee.
When looking for a job in your niche, try embracing social forums. You need to stay current with the latest news and information in your desired field. It is easy to become a part of these discussions via websites like Twitter and LinkedIn. Social forums are often overlooked, however, engaging in conversations like these can help build connections with other professionals in your niche, including some prospective employers.
When all else fails, hire help to write your resume. A professional resume will not only look good and read right, but it will also be written in such a way that job boards like Monster.com will highlight you in the right searches. Professionals know which terms to use to get noticed.
Call your references. This is important for a few reasons. The first is that they need to be warned that they may be called, plus you should let them know what sort of skills they should be highlighting. Second, their number or email address may have changed, so you need that update.
Be proactive in your position. It may seem easy to simply sit back and let the job take you where it wants to go, but employers don’t really respond to that. You may find you’re the first to go if/when there needs to be layoffs. Instead, show that you’re essential by proactively looking to fill needs and solve problems related to your position. That will definitely impress those above you.
As was mentioned in the beginning of this article, the current employment environment is very bleak. In order to beat the odds and survive through these difficult times you must be willing to educate yourself. Take advantage of all the great tips and advice you’ve read about and apply it. Good luck!
