Boosting job search success
hat I would say, in no particular ut Alberta and Saskatchewan. nomies are booming. The unent rate is low. The demand for s high. Do your homework beull up stakes, but don’t be afraid o find work. ait on the sidelines for the perYou can learn something from
Besides, what seems perfect out not to be. And what seems o job may surprise you, or open o something better. et hung up on the status of a occupation. There is satisfacng any job well, however humur employer will usually notice in the work. And this may open unities. n your life experience. Employthat. It speaks to maturity and ve. Consider taking a gap year. shows that it doesn’t hurt your f finding work, as long as you post-secondary education. Volet out of your comfort zone. All uild your confidence. ly solely on advertised postings ob search. Sixty-five per cent of Canadians report that the “hidden job market” was important in their finding employment. The hidden job market refers to job openings that are never advertised, but are filled internally, or through the employer’s family, friends or contacts. Bottom line: to find work, network. Do independent research and summon the courage to make cold calls to prospective employers.
Learn the basic principles of marketing. In a job search, ask yourself, “How can I add value to my prospective employer? What do they need?” Appeal to the selfinterest of the person you want something from. Remember, it’s not about pleasing you. It’s about pleasing them.
Ask a professional. Consulting a careerdevelopment professional can help you clarify your options, improve your job search skills and focus your goals.
Don’t fret about your friends’ and parents’ opinions. Listen to them, but in the end, remember, it’s your life.
If you are shopping for a college or university program, look for one with a co-op work experience component. You will graduate further ahead because you have on-the-job training and the beginnings of a network of contacts.