Job-Hunting Basics: Eight Steps to Success

To find a job, you need to do more than scour the want ads. In fact, knowing how to look for a position can be as important as having the right qualifications. Following are strategies that can help you make the most of your job search efforts -and increase the probability of finding a rewarding position.

1. Think of your career search as a job unto itself

• It takes time to research and locate your ideal position.
• If you are unemployed, make this task your full-time job; if you're employed, set aside time every day after work to devote to the search.

2. Narrow your focus

• Before you blanket the market with CVs, spend time thinking about what you want from your next position.
• Make a list of the five most important criteria for you, whether it's non-profit based work, extra time with family or a management role.
• Consider your preferred skills and related background.
• As you review job opportunities, look for those that match your priorities, talents and experience. This will help you zero in on a position that will not only pay the bills, but also make you happy to go to work each day.

3. Explore every option

• Internet job portals, company web sites, staffing firms and classified ads are all good places to conduct your search.
• Universities are also usually well-prepared to provide assistance to alumni seeking employment.
• Take full advantage of these services.

4. Know the marketplace

• Try to objectively assess how in-demand your skills are, based on current job openings and the availability of people with your experience.
• Talk to recruiters or other experts in your field who may be able to provide insight.
• Attend job fairs to get in touch with in-house recruiters for a number of companies and keep an eye out for lectures, courses or seminars; you may meet someone who works in the field you're pursuing.

5. Create a winning CV

• Quantifying your achievements. For example, if you completed a project under budget, state what the projected numbers were and how much you actually spent. This will demonstrate your value to potential employers.
• Tailor your CV and covering letter to fit the most important criteria in the job description. However, be careful not to misrepresent yourself: If you only know the basics in PowerPoint, don't say you're an expert.
• Your resume should have a professional appearance: Proof-read it carefully, and choose a legible font and point size. Use cream or white paper if you're posting the CV, and create a format-friendly electronic version using Word, for example, when sending your resume by e-mail.

6. Network, network, network

• You can tap the 'hidden' job market by developing a list of contacts through friends, family, former co-workers or alumni.
• Make it your goal to speak with five or six people each week for advice, helpful information and job leads.
• Always be polite and courteous, and be prepared to return the favour.

7. Create a 'pitch'

• When you are telephoning contacts for advice or leads, have a brief description prepared -four or five sentences that describe who you are, your background and what you are specifically looking for from the person you are calling.

8. Develop strong interviewing skills

• Make a good impression at an interview by showing that you've done your research on the company. Before the appointed time, request company literature and locate industry-related articles at your local library or on the Internet.
• Ask yourself questions such as, "What are the company's strengths and weaknesses?" Make a list of what you could contribute if hired for the position.
• Research basic interview questions and prepare your answers- just be careful not to over-rehearse.

When searching for a job, it's always a good idea to go the extra mile by conducting research, creating a top-notch CV and preparing carefully for each interview. It takes perseverance and dedication, but with the right tools- and a bit of luck- you'll land your ideal position.