JOB HUNTING : Where To Begin

JOB HUNTING : WHERE TO BEGIN....... Where do you look for jobs? The most common place to find jobs is through newspaper advertisements. Try to read through the whole section - not just the areas you're interested in. One of the oldest techniques in the world for finding information is the 'word of mouth' system. Ask your friends if they know of anything going let them know you're looking for work. Finally,watch the papers to see which companies are expanding. Chances are,they'll need to hire people. They'll be impressed,too, if you call them up because you've read about their future plans. By takig the initiative,you can often create your own opportunities. If you're looking for a job,the elephone can become a kind of lifeline. You'll use it to make inquiries,appointments and follow-up calls. Here are a few simple rules to remember that will help you leave the right impression : First of all,don't pick up the phone without knoing what you're going to say. If necessary,prepare a script outlining what you have to offer. Obviously,you should concentrate on the attributes that a company is looking for. Have a pen and paper ready when you phone - it's annoying to be called,asked for details,and then told to wait while the caller goes off to find a pen and paper. Don't waffle on the phone. Speak clearly,get to the point quickly,and sound as confident as possible. Make sure there's no background noise - even if it means gagging your little sister. If you sound positive,authoritative and enthusiastic,chances are you'll get an appointment. If you sound hesitant and unsure,your chances of success are slim. One of the key things to do is to get the name of the person you're talking to. Don't trust your memory. Write it down and use it during your conversation. When you make an appointment,repeat all the details just to be sure you've got them all right. Remember to thank the person you're speaking to,and make sure to research the company before you appear for the interview. Ten tips for a good start. 1. Firstly,get a good night's rest. Do not appear for an interview with a hangover,yawning or obviously tired. 2. Make every effort to look your best. 3. Don't arrive late for your appointment. Get there at least 15 to 20 minutes early. 4. Don't bite your nails or talk loudly to other people around you. 5. Take advantage of any company magazines available. They will help to give you a better idea of the copany. 6. When the interviewer arrives at the reception area,stand and shake hands if a hand is offered. When you sit down for your interview,sit upright and look the interviewer in the eye. 7. Remember,the interview time is your chance to show a propective employer the kind of personality you have. The only thing between you and the job,is you. Make the most of every moment of your interview. 8. Don't underself yourself - but don't stretch the truth either. 9. If you're unsure of youself,don't be afraid to refer to notes. Notes show you've prepared for the interview and done some homework on the copany. 10. Don't be afraid to ask questions - and be prepared to answer a few. Often,an interviewer will ask you why you want a job,what you can bring to the company and what you know about the company. Have answers prepared. .......................................................................................................................