How To Get Leads on New Jobs

Posted on Dec 2nd 2009, 04:00 pm, under Career Advice

"Where do I start my search?" This is the first and perhaps most important question that job seekers have to ask themselves. You have to keep in mind that there is no single source for good employment leads. However, there are several ways for you to generate them for yourself:

1. Newspaper want ads - Once the primary information resource for job seekers, ads have somewhat diminished in importance as companies increasingly shift their job postings to the internet. And usually, by the time you read the advertisement in the paper, the position has already been filled. Generally, want ads are of greatest help to entry-level job seekers, though you may still be able to find opportunities by checking out these job listings.

2. Internet job boards - People usually start their job search by checking online boards, and it's no wonder why. Finding employment that fits your skills and geographic location is a lot easier over the Internet. Thousands of companies post their openings online, and there is a large number of job sites with updated, searchable databases. But you must not limit yourself solely to looking online, no matter how easy Internet searches are compared to other methods. Check out our article on how to get the best results out of your online job search.

3. Networking - As we've stressed before, networking is a key factor in a successful job search. It's simply the best method for getting job leads, period. The larger your network of contacts, the better your chances of finding employment opportunities. Ask the people you know for information and assistance with your career: family, friends, associates, colleagues, customers, neighbors, classmates, etc. It takes time and effort to grow your network, so read up on how to do it here.

4. Alumni offices - Your college alumni association is a great source of job leads. There's bound to be some alumni in your field who can help you find an opening or point you in the right direction. All you have to do is ask at your alumni office for contact information on these people.

5. Cold contact - Contacting companies who aren't overtly advertising openings is one of the few ways to access the enormous "hidden" job market, where you'll find around 70 percent of all job openings. (Read more about hidden jobs here.) Make a list of potential employers and obtain information on them by consulting company directories, trade periodicals, and online sources. When you find a position that fits your skills, get the email or number of the hiring manager, and send a tailored resume and cover letter. Focusing your efforts in this way will yield far better results than simply mass mailing your application to every company out there.

6. Actual legwork - This is probably one of the oldest methods for generating job leads. Knock on the doors of potential employers in your area, submit your resume, and ask if you could interview for a position. This method works even better if you've managed to make a successful "cold" phone call or email.

You must remember, however, that no job lead will ever result in anything if you don't follow up on it. You can't just submit your application and then sit on your hands, waiting to be called. Always schedule a follow-up period to confirm that your letter and resume were received, and to ask about a potential interview. Don't let your hard-won opportunities slip away. Be polite but persistent if you want to get results.