This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Basic Tips on How to Get Hired

In this article, some of the most basic concepts are explained in full to help readers focus on grasping the job for which they apply.

There should be an exact science of “how to get hired” for the world to follow.  There are guidelines we learn in high-school and college, and there are self-help books on the job hunt, but the guidelines are very basic. 

How can a person get hired?  What are the best methods of locating and getting a job?  In this article, some of the most basic concepts are explained in full to help readers focus on grasping the job for which they apply.

It can be a full-time job just trying to find employment, but the more hours a person puts in, the more chances are that he or she will land a job. First, it is very important to have a very up-to-date resume easily accessible electronically.  Keep a copy of it in the inbox of your email account, so that it can be downloaded or forwarded more quickly. Plus, if computer access isn’t an everyday luxury, the resume can be accessed at any place a computer can be made available such as a library.

Find out what's happening in Stowwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

It is essential to look for employment opportunities on a daily basis. Most online newspapers offer a classified section, and that is always a good place to start because most jobs advertised are usually local. Also, if the position sought is in a specific field, such as a teacher or nurse, go to the company or institution’s website and look under employment opportunities, employment, or career opportunities.  Some places also have postings under the Human Resources section.  Job postings often appear on a daily basis, so make sure to check often for new openings.

Once the application, resume and references have been submitted, make sure not to forget the positions for which have been applied. Call or email the HR department, or person, after a few days. Some positions which are applied for online show what part of the hiring process the company or institution is in. They also show once the position has been filled, so that people don’t waste their time continuing to pursue that particular position. 

Find out what's happening in Stowwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Some internet companies such as Monster.com and Indeed.com allow users to post their resumes so potential employers can seek them out; however; this isn’t nearly as promising as it sounds for every person who registers with a job seeker site. It is much more effective to seek out employers, and much more beneficial to use local resources to find them. Actually, many local newspapers and news stations often have a way for readers/viewers to stay informed about employment postings, so check this venue as well.

Once an interview or two are set up, it is a good idea to prepare for the questions that might be asked. Google.com is a great place to start seeking questions asked during an interview. Also, make certain to be familiar with the company or institution before the interview, as employers are more likely to hire someone who has done their research. It is also a good idea to get appropriate outfits together ahead of time.

After the interview, call your references and make sure that they know they might be called for a reference. This way no one is on the spot and each reference has time to think about what to say to an employer. Wait a few days after the interview before inquiring about the position. Some employers interview numerous people per position over a period of time, and it isn’t good to pester a potential employer too much.

Rather than make a phone call to HR or to the actual person, write either a short note inside a card or in an email body thanking the employer for the interview. It is good to wait another couple of days, and then it is appropriate to telephone to inquire about the status of the interview.  Hopefully, someone will call first to offer a job.

In conclusion, remember that looking for a job takes time, and getting hired requires patience and persistence. Spend a solid week putting in applications, emailing resumes, and contacting potential employers because the more applications completed the chances of employment increase. Remember that other people are in the same shoes, and the job market is a very competitive field; therefore, it is imperative to get your name and references in as many places as possible. 

Don’t forget about face-to-face networking or get caught up applying for jobs solely on line.  Get out there and meet people. Good luck!!

Thanks for Reading,

Diana Miller

Job Search Strategist

Founder,

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Stow