Find the Job
Networking
Now it's time to tell people about these strengths and ask if they know of any job openings - this is called networking. Networking is simply the sharing of information and resources with others. Job search networking is a targeted effort to talk with people about your job search. You can gather information, ideas, and suggestions from your job search network. It is a good idea to come up with a list of people you can contact to help you with your job search. Look over list below and jot down on a piece of paper a couple of names from each category. Be sure to write their phone numbers down, too!
| Friends |
Classmates |
Teachers |
Neighbors |
Church |
Other |
| Previous Co-Workers |
Clubs or Organizations |
Previous Employers |
Doctors or Dentists |
Family Members or Relatives |
Volunteer Leaders |
Contact the people on your list. Tell them you are looking for a job and describe your strengths and skills. Ask if they know of any job openings or if they have any suggestions of places to look. Take notes while talking to them.
Do one of your parents or relatives know of a job? Do friends of you parents know of any available positions? Does a friend have previous experience at a company and he or she could recommend you for the job there?
**Give each of these people your phone number in case something comes up and thank them for their help.**
The Yellow Pages
Grab you local yellow pages and look through it for job possibilities. You may also get some great ideas for jobs you've never thought of before and places to work you didn't even know about. Use this Job Search Log to write names, addresses, and phone numbers of businesses you located in the yellow pages and then give them a call!
Calling an Employer
It may be a little awkward at first but with practice, it will get easier. Most employers will be happy to share information and try to help you out if they can.
Steps for calling an employer to see if they are hiring:
- Ask to speak to the manager
- Introduce yourself. Describe three of your strengths that fit the business.
- Ask if there are any job openings for someone with your strengths.
- If yes, ask if you can set up an interview or stop by to fill out an application.
- If No, ask if it would be possible to fill an application out in case there were any future openings.
- Thank the person by name
- Make notes on your list as to what the results were.
Other Places to Search for Work
Keep your eyes open to any help wanted signs in storefronts windows or signs in front of buildings.
Check the classified or help wanted sections of the newspaper-especially the local paper and attend career fairs.
