Greg's Corner

Tip #1: Looking for a Job – In All the Right Places

The Internet is obviously the best place to look for job advertisements. But which sites are the best to use? Most people, if asked, will come up with the same three or four names. And that’s a problem. Because if you’re looking where everyone else is looking, you’re really just ensuring that you have a lot of competition.

The solution is to expand your reach. Find sites that advertise jobs you don’t see on all the other sites. So, for example, if you are 18 to 35 years old, and looking for an entry to mid-level position, you should know about Geebo.com because we have carved out a particularly large niche for those jobs.

Another tip: Look beyond the job advertisement. Use the Internet to gather important background information on the company you want to work for. What’s this organization’s mission? What’s new there? Where are they headed?

Next, network on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc. with people who work at this company, and ask them specific questions related to the job you’re applying for.

Once you’ve got plenty of information on the job opening, the organization, and the people who work there, you’ll be prepared to craft a resume and cover letter that will stand out from the pack. And when it’s time for the interview, you’ll be very well prepared to talk about how your skills match their needs.

One last tip: While well worth the effort, I realize that all of this research, resume-writing and networking is time consuming. To keep from being overwhelmed, I recommend that you set reasonable daily goals. And at the end of each day, keep yourself motivated and encouraged by jotting down your accomplishments. In today’s job market, finding a great job is hard work. But take heart. That hard work will pay off.