subject: Make The Rules: How To Get A Job [print this page] Job hunting can be a tedious endeavor full of ups and downs. It may seem like there just aren't that many opportunities out there for you. On the other hand, job hunting can be very rewarding even before you actually land a job. Motivation and dedication are two keys to securing your ultimate job.
Applying for jobs is a process that many people are familiar with: search the classifieds, send in a resume and then hopefully go in for an interview. After that you most likely have to sit around and hope for a call that means good news. You and other people on a quest for a job don't always have to follow the same steps. It never hurts to consider solving a problem in a new way.
Don't react, create. The typical action is to contact a company in response to some ad that you've seen advertising an open position. On the other hand, it's not often that job-seekers call a business that isn't advertising a position. You can call a desirable company and sell yourself or you can ask questions that may open doors for you. Being familiar with particular business practice is also a good idea because it allows you to offer specific ways you can help the company.
Don't let hiring guidelines turn you away. Minimum requirements lists are not always rigid. In many cases, you are in no way disqualified from getting a job as long as you can show how you're qualified. If you don't meet all specifications, you still shouldn't be too discouraged to apply. What many ads don't tell you is that companies train all their employees in some way. Taking a chance on applying has the benefit of allowing you to sell qualifications that you have that an ad may not have mentioned.
Think outside the box with old methods. There's nothing wrong with some traditional methods of job hunting as long as you make the process work for you. If you're searching for jobs in newspapers and magazines then you should also look on the Internet. Furthermore, consider starting your own blog or website to display your skills or joining a reputable job forum where you can network in a brand new way.
Finding a job isn't a one-size-fits-all process. The most important thing to remember is to make the process work for you no matter what that may be. Creativity and being proactive are just two of the traits that can help you find the right job path.
