Widening The Net: Practical Ways To Extend Your Job Search

You can use traditional tactics to find a job, such as checking the classifieds in your local paper or scouring the various job sites that are available online. But to increase your chances of getting the job you want, you might want to extend your job search, especially if you haven't had much luck when going down the usual avenues. So, if you have been unemployed for a while and are in need of some direction, or if you are bravely changing career, here are some ideas to help you with your job search.

Remember that it's sometimes who you know that helps
Many job vacancies are never advertised and are often conducted in-house. This makes your search difficult, even impossible, especially if you are a worthy candidate unable to get your nose in the door. Still, if you know somebody who works for a company you are interested in, ask them to put in a word for you. Provided they can sell your worth to the employer, preferably with your resumé to hand, you may stand a chance at securing an interview, and hopefully, a job!

Another way your friends can help you is through a referral incentives.  When I worked in oil and gas, we would get referral bonus for employees that we referred that got hired and stayed with the company for 90+ days. Other employers and agencies such as this healthcare recruiting service, can allow your friends to net a cash bonus by getting people like you into a vacant position. So, speak to your friends, and let them know of your availability so they can be proactive in helping you get a job.

There is more to the internet than job sites
Sure, job sites are fantastic, and more often than not, you should be able to find the job you want. However, bearing in mind that you won't be the only person applying for those jobs (there could be hundreds of people), you may not even end up on the final shortlist. You can improve your chances for shortlisting, of course, but you might also consider how else you can use the internet to get a job.

One approach is to join professional groups on social media that are linked to the career path you are considering. Facebook, Twitter, and especially LinkedIn, are useful ways to connect with employers and other people who may be able to guide you in the right direction. Another thing you can do is consider the employer you are interested in, and then visit the career section on their website. Bookmark the page, and regularly check it to see if any vacancies have arisen. You might also contact the company directly, be that through email or phone call, to let them know of your interest. You might then get first word about a vacancy when one arises.

Get out of the House and Use your feet
Get yourself off your sofa and out into the world to extend your search. Visit any job fairs that are happening near you, and speak to recruiters directly. Check your alumni boards for alumni job fairs. You already have something in common with those folks - an alma mater - so it can be easier to get to the right people. For those employers in your locale that you have an interest interest , take the brave step through their front door and directly introduce yourself. Leave them your resumé if they are too busy to speak with you. And if there are any industry events happening, such as a conference or a trade show, get yourself along and introduce yourself to anybody who can direct you into your next job role. Leave your business card with them so they can stay in touch.

Finding the right job is tough, but by being widening the net in your search, you will stand a better chance at finding employment. We wish you every success! And if you have other ideas to share with your fellow boys babes make sure you leave them in the comments below!