It seems like job hunting is a job all by itself these days. But what if you are looking for information to help you advance in your career s well? Job Websites may offer employment opportunities, but don't ignore the articles and career information that job sites offer as well. From learning the qualities of a great resume to interview tips, there is much that a job seeker can learn from employment websites. But job seekers are not the only ones that can stand to catch a lesson from job sites. Even the employed can benefit from articles that discuss asking one's boss for a raise or what to do when confronting office gossip. Take a look at the employment websites below. Not only do they have job postings, but they offer career information and business advice as well.
CareerBuilder: As one of the largest career information websites, the sheer size of the site can serve as a deterrent to an eager job hunter. But don't let its size scare you. This site is full of career advice, interview skills tutorials and even tips on dealing with stress on the job. Let it serve as a resource to help you find that job and grow your career.
Idealist.org: This site provides unique career information about nonprofit and government positions; however, Idealist also posts information about other career paths as well. In particular, you can learn about skill sets that transfer very well across different industries like IT, accounting or marketing abilities. Idealist also provides information for those looking for opportunities to volunteer stateside or abroad. Twitter:
@Idealist
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Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
Learn New Skills:
With that being said, if you want to move from cashier to management or make a total career change, you should grab the bull by the horns and make it happen. I am a strong believer that you can get any job you want just as long as you know what you want and what it entails. If you don't have the necessary education or training, then it's your job to get it. So take that computer course, register with that college or vocational school, and talk to as many people as possible that have the same job that you want.
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Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
Set realistic goals:
Don't live in a fantasy world. If you are a cashier at your local drugstore, don't apply for an executive position at a Fortune 500 company. Being realistic means that you only apply for positions that dovetail with your qualifications. Otherwise you will spend more time online applying for jobs rather than a real time chance through interviews.
Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
Learn New Skills:
With that being said, if you want to move from cashier to management or make a total career change, you should grab the bull by the horns and make it happen. I am a strong believer that you can get any job you want just as long as you know what you want and what it entails. If you don't have the necessary education or training, then it's your job to get it. So take that computer course, register with that college or vocational school, and talk to as many people as possible that have the same job that you want.
Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
Staffing Agencies:
Register with as many staffing agencies as possible. It's a great way to find a job and an even a better way to keep your interviewing skills up to par. The best way to find a Staffing Agency in your city is on the web or word of mouth. I also suggest targeting smaller agencies as opposed to feeling like just a number at a larger one. Being a recruiter at a boutique agency allows me to give a more personalized touch to all of my candidates. Since the flow of traffic isn't as heavy, I am able to spend time with my candidates and really get to know them on a professional and personal level.
Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
Resumes:
Resumes should be easy on the eyes, which means simple and uncomplicated There are two types of resumes -- functional and chronological. Functional resumes are more effective if you're changing fields; chronological works best if you want to move up in your field. Email addresses should be professional, sexygirl@gmail.com is not appropriate. Once you've finished writing your resume, always have another pair of eyes to review it to avoid grammatical and spelling errors.
Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
Honesty is the best policy:
Never lie on your resume -- embellishing is fine -- but flat out lying will send you back to the unemployment line. Most companies will do background checks, so be as accurate as possible.
Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
Use the 'Net:
Posting your resume on Monster, Hotjobs, and Careerbuilders is definitely worth a shot, but in these hard times you have to think outside the box! Start your own blog for people like your self who aren't working. Get a discussion going; join linkedin immediately if you're not already a member and Facebook (seriously!) One mortgage broker swears by Facebook because he has made more contacts on Facebook than anywhere else.
Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
Networking:
Word of mouth is a great way to get started. Let your friends, and former business associates know that you're looking and what type of position you're looking for. Embrace technology. Send a mass email out to all those who might be helpful. Encourage them to pass it along to their contacts. You'll create a ripple effect that just might lead to the job of your dreams.
Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
References:
Notify references prior to interviewing. No employer wants to hear "I'll have to get back to you with that." It is just as important to be prepared before your interview as it is during.
Getting a Job in a Tough Economy
Forbes Woman: A jobs site for the upwardly mobile, career-driven woman. I certainly can appreciate the "Style" area on the site as it provides fashion advice for professional women. From some of the faux pas that I have seen over the years, I believe that this site should be visited by many women struggling to build a positive career image. Not only is career fashion advice available, but the site also gives information about life-work balance and maintaining a healthy state of well-being from a woman's point of view. Twitter:
@ForbesWoman
Business Insider: If your skill set is in technology or finance, then the jobs area on this site for you. Niche industry sites are a great way to find job postings that are tailored to your skills. This applies to any industry, so it pays to seek out sites that cater to your skill set and seek out community interaction on those sites, even if the site is not specifically about careers. Plus, online networking on a site tailored to your career path is a great way to set up business relationships you may need in the future, which could lead to better jobs and career opportunities.
Remember: the Internet is not a magic tool that can suddenly hand you the job of your dreams. Finding that ideal job will take a lot of work on your part -- networking with your contacts, tracking down job leads, researching companies and composing excellent resumes and cover letters. Part of your job search can be implemented online, but you still need to include traditional methods in your job hunting efforts. If you are not looking for a job, these sites will offer you information and advice to help you build your career and make your future job opportunities even better.
Best of luck with your job search -- or with your efforts at career improvement.
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