1. Networking
The term “secret job market” refers to the fact that many of the finest positions are never advertised. They are filled by candidates who hear about them via friends, former coworkers, and previous bosses.
Socializing is another word for networking. You can join professional associations, attend events for alumni of your school, network with professionals in your field, and meet up with individuals in your field whenever you get the opportunity, whether in person or online.
Using internet tools like LinkedIn, you may expand your network to include friends of friends. The more people you know, the more likely you are to hear about fresh opportunities.
2. Referrals
Some companies reward their staff for referring a qualified candidate to the organization. It’s a win-win situation for all parties involved. Your contact receives a finder’s fee for bringing in a top-notch employee, and you get a new job.
Although this is a rare occurrence, there’s nothing stopping you from asking a trusted colleague in your industry to inform you of any opportunities. Working relationships you form at each employment may lead to opportunities in the future.
3. Job Fairs
Job fairs are often targeted toward specific industries, although some job or recruitment fairs are more generalized. The promotional material will include a list of the organizations that will be represented.
Investigate any companies that interest you, bring a batch of resumes and business cards, and get ready to sell yourself. Consider any conversations with recruiters as mini-interviews that can set you apart from other applicants. Some organizations may even offer on-site interviews to candidates that match their requirements.
4. Company Websites
If you already have your dream employer in mind, go directly to the career section of the company’s website. If you track openings on its site, there’s a chance you’ll find just the opportunity that you’ve been waiting for.
Create a list of employers that you’d like to work for and visit their websites often. If you’re really set on working for a specific company it may take some time to find just the opportunity that fits your skillset. But if you’ve got time, this might be the optimal method for finding your dream job.
5. Job Portals and Career Websites
Job boards used to be just that – a solid surface on a wall where vacancies were advertised for all to see. Job boards have moved to virtual format, and that’s good news for all of us since their reach is far greater.
Many state governments maintain employment boards and job banks that are open to the public. You can also utilize job search engines or any of a plethora of career-related websites, such as Platorecruit.com, Google for Jobs, and Indeed, to find employment openings. Many additional databases, such as People Per Hour, Upwork, Simply Hired, and Crowded, specialize in freelance and contract employment.
There are also specialist job search sites for specific sectors, such as Dice for techies and ArtsThread for artists.
These websites work in the same way as traditional classified advertising, but they have a far wider reach and a considerably faster turnaround time.
6. Cold Calling
If you don’t see any job listings posted for a company you’re particularly interested in, you might consider making a cold call. Phone or email people in the organization after finding their contact details on the company website. Ask about upcoming vacancies, and attach a copy of your resume.
Keep in mind that this kind of contact may not always be well-received. You’ll be lucky to get any response at all. But there is always a chance it’ll give you the inside track on upcoming vacancies.
7. Recruitment Agencies
If you’re looking for some professional help in your job search, headhunters and recruitment agencies can help.
Many organizations hire through recruitment agencies to streamline the hiring process. Head hunters actively recruit individuals to fill specific vacancies.
Payment is based on commission. Make sure you know up front whether you or the company is paying it.
Keep in mind that many high schools and colleges have job placement services that can help new graduates to develop their resumes and assist both current students and alumni with job searches.
8. Internships
Temporary employment and short-term contracts often lead to permanent positions. It’s a great way to get a foot in the door or at the very least provide you with useful business contacts to call upon in the future.
Many recruitment agencies can assist with locating temporary or casual positions and contract work.
Internships are a great choice for students who are just graduating from college. The job placement services of many schools connect their students with opportunities.
If you’re just starting out and you can afford it, volunteering can be a great way to gain valuable industry contacts.