Where Do I Begin To Look For A Job?

Once you have decided on the positions and industries you want to pursue, it’s time to put yourself out there and try. If you are feeling overwhelmed not knowing where to start looking for work, here are a few suggestions.  While none of them can guarantee success, these are today’s most used methods.

1. The Internet: You should know that this method has been known to work only 4% of the time on average, but that doesn’t mean you should eliminate using it during your search. There is no doubt you’ve heard about that job hunter who was tremendously successful in using the internet, so take a chance. Just a side-note… if you are in IT, engineering, finances, or healthcare, the success rate actually improves and rises to 10%. Find job boards catering to your field… in your case, healthcare.
2. Individual websites: If there is a place you’d really like to work at, going directly to that website is the best way to identify what jobs are currently available. It’s disappointing when the position you hoped would be posted isn’t there, but don’t let that stop you. Send an energetic cover letter and e-mail stating that you are unhappy that a certain position isn’t posted, and felt compelled to send your resume just in case that particular position does become available. Include the fact that this specific facility is the one you are hoping to eventually secure a job with. You never know. Or, maybe there was a position available, but you were too late in applying, and it has since been removed. Send in your resume with a cover letter letting them know that you are disappointed that the position has obviously been filled, but if the chosen candidate does not meet expectations and they restart a search, you’d truly appreciate consideration. While this works only about 7% of the time, it is better than 0%.
3. Networking: Networking can be tricky. While talking to friends and family may be comfortable, there are still professional boundaries that should be followed. Putting people in a corner and making them feel obligated to help you only causes discomfort and resentment. Asking people for their input, rather than asking straight out for a job, is a much more effective way of engaging people in a conversation about employment. Make sure your contact knows you respect them and that it is their advice you are asking for. Also, search for networking events relating to your field. It’s not about finding a job at these events, it’s about forming relationships that can lead to a job. Just make sure you can articulate who you are professionally.
4. LinkedIn: This is a strong tool to use while searching for a job, and if you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, you need to develop one. LinkedIn is a professional networking website that your next opportunity could easily come from. There are individual professionals, alumni, past and potentially future employers with whom you can connect. If you don’t understand the way LinkedIn works, search for a class at your local library or junior college, and learn the many ways this dynamic connecting tool can help.
5. Workshops: There are always free employment workshops or clinics that can be useful. If you walk out with just one additional tool, or one more tip, you’re ahead of the game.

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