subject: You Should Make The Rules: Finding A Job [print this page] If you're looking for a job, you know how hard the process can be. Applying for jobs is often a hit or miss situation. If you think differently, a job search can actually be somewhat pleasant. Motivation and dedication are two keys to securing your ultimate job.
Finding a job is a process that many people are accustomed to and may practice several times throughout their life. After that you most likely have to sit around and hope for a call that means good news. When searching for a job, consider that these "rules" could be meant to be broken. Consider some other tactics that may help you get the right job.
Go to the job instead of waiting for it to find you. The typical action is to contact a company in response to some ad that you've seen advertising an open position. Cold-calling is a great way to get in touch with companies where you would like to work. You can call a desirable company and sell yourself or you can ask questions that may open doors for you. Remember to read up on the the company's current issues. An employer may realize that you're a good fit to immediately deal with those issues.
Don't let hiring guidelines turn you away. Businesses often use stipulations like years of experience or a particular certification to discourage people who aren't dedicated to getting a position. In many cases, you are in no way disqualified from getting a job as long as you can show how you're qualified. Don't hesitate to apply even if you don't exactly fit the mold. Companies teach their employees how things should be done, so initial guidelines are only part of the story. Selling your special skills to a company is a great strategy.
Be innovative in your approach. There's nothing wrong with some traditional methods of job hunting as long as you make the process work for you. Searching online and offline is important to be able to find the most opportunities. Also, try creative approaches like designing a website or uploading video that lets you give your profile.
A job hunt is just as unique as you. A job hunt only has to be tailored to one person, and that person is you. Being proactive and thinking outside the box are two methods that can help you land a prized job.
