Tips and Information for Finding Jobs

Getting a job that you want involves a lot of searching, and the search is easier with preparation. To be prepared means having the following:

  • Creating a great resume and cover letter
  • Getting strong recommendation letters
  • Preparing for your interview
  • Networking with people who can help you get jobs
  • Employment Assistance Options

Employment Tips

Creating a Great Resume and Cover Letter

Every resume is different, and you need to write a resume that shows your strengths and skills. What you should put in your resume depends on the job you are looking for or want. There are many samples for resumes on the Internet, but you should make sure the resume shows who you are and how you can be a great employee for the company at which you want to get a job. You may want to change your resume for each job you apply to emphasize different strengths and skills that fit the job best.

Many companies no longer require cover letters, now that most job applications are done through websites. However, some websites allow you the option of submitting a cover letter. While it may not be read, it is worthwhile to write a great cover letter to make yourself stand out from many other job applicants.

Both your resume and cover letter must be perfect without any errors in spelling or grammar. You can ask several people to review your resume and cover letter to catch any mistakes before you submit them for any job openings.

Many people now put their resume on a personal website, and this is one option for you to broadly market your availability for various jobs.

While the NAD does not recommend any specific website for resumes and cover letters, here are some with samples for your review:

Getting Strong Recommendation Letters

When you are searching for a job, many employers ask for recommendation letters. It is better to have those recommendation letters ready before you begin searching for a job. Choose who you want to write those recommendation letters, and you should look at former supervisors or professors with whom you have a good rapport for such letters. Ask them if you can see the recommendation letters before the letters are submitted to possible employers.

Preparing for Your Interview

Making an impression during the interview is your best chance to get a job. Doing a job interview is difficult for most people, and practice is the best way to become good at it.

It is very important to study and research the company where you want to work. When you know and understand what the company does and what the company is looking for from job applicants, you can do a better job during the interview.

When the interview is at the worksite, employers evaluate you based on your clothes and being on time for the interview, so it is important to dress appropriately and arrive at the interview early so that you are ready. Once you meet your interviewers, smile and make eye contact when you introduce yourself.

Sometimes employers do the interview by telephone, and it is just as important to be on time and make an impression.

While the NAD does not recommend any specific website for improving your interview skills, here are some for your review:

Networking with People Who Can Help You Get a Job

Many people get their jobs by networking or getting to know someone who knows of job openings. There is no formal procedure for networking. Every industry is different, and there are specific people who might have connections in a particular industry. The best way to network often requires you to attend conferences, job fairs, seminars, social events, or other occasions that are attended by people from the industry in which you want to work. In addition, it may be helpful for you to join associations or organizations that include members from your preferred industry. Joining such organizations gives you an opportunity to meet people who might be looking for employees or know someone who might need an employee.

The U.S. Department of Labor has some information on the importance of networking.

Employee Assistance Options

There are many ways to get employment assistance if you are unsure about how to find a job in your preferred industry.

Every state has a Vocational Rehabilitation system, which can help you with your job search.

The Federal Government has a Schedule A program that makes it easier for deaf and hard of hearing people and people with disabilities to get jobs.

If you are on Social Security and want to work, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has a “Ticket to Work” program that is designed to help people get training and then find jobs.

The Federal Government also established Career One Stop Centers throughout the country. You can find your local One Stop Center to get job search assistance.

If you are graduating college, there are a few ways to get assistance, including the Federal Government’s Workforce Recruitment Program or your college’s career center including but not limited to the following: