Making It Big Monday

9 Steps to Getting that Job

If you’re job hunting, you’ve probably discovered that there are jobs out there. However, because you have so much competition, you may be finding it difficult to get a response. Here are nine steps to help you get the job you want.

1. Identify not only the position you want (and are qualified for) but the companies you’d like to work for. Learn everything you possibly can about each company: its mission, work culture, what makes it unique and competitive, the qualities they look for in employees, and so on.

2. Be sure to target companies that need what you have to offer. Be clear on what problem the hiring manager needs to solve with this hire and present yourself as their ideal recruit (provided you are!). Be ready to demonstrate how you’ve added value and solved similar problems for other companies as well.

3. Ramp up your networking efforts. Locate people who work in the companies you’re interested in through social networking sites. Take the time to build rapport before inquiring about job openings. With a little luck, you can develop relationships with people who will let you know as soon as the right job opens up or to put in a good word for you.

4. While networking is a powerful job hunting tool, don’t abandon other sources of information about job openings. Be strategic about using job search engines, job boards, local newspapers and other sources.

5. Make sure your cover letter is top notch. Never send out generic cover letters. Instead, gear each one directly to the company. Also, briefly demonstrate experience you have in solving the problems they need solve and how you are the person who can help them achieve company goals.

6. Follow up after sending out your resume. Make a follow-up phone call or send a follow-up email asking if you can schedule an interview. Chances are the hiring managers has a lot of resumes to sort through. Being proactive can make you stand out.

7. Send a thank-you note after each interview. It’s common courtesy to thank the employer for his or her time.

8. If you sent a thank-note and don’t hear anything within the decision-making timeframe you were given, make another follow-up call. Be polite but gently persistent. This shows you’re really interested in the job.

9. Make job-hunting your full time job. Continue to broaden your network. Contact individuals every day with the goal of getting referrals and setting up interviews.

By ResumeBear. To view the original article CLICK HERE