Thursday, March 24, 2011

Make Sure you Consider All Available Options in your Job Search

Dreamfedjob.com
Today everyone is using social network Web sites such as LinkedIn.com, MySpace, You Tube, Plaxo.com, Yahoo Groups, Netshare.com, Craigslist.com, and Facebook. The Internet has become the most widely used source of information for job seekers.

In addition to the social Web sites, there are also ones such as CareerBuilder, Monster and Yahoo HotJobs that list thousands of jobs. There are specialized sites for salespeople, financial positions and tech workers. Companies, government agencies, not-for-profit organizations and professional associations also list job opportunities on their Web sites. Just recently, some federal agencies have started using Twitter to advertise job announcements. Among the factors you should consider in selecting a job site are its reputation, how it uses information collected from employers and potential employees, and how much information is released to the prospective employer.

You do not want your resume misused. Verify facts about the job site and check the contact numbers and addresses. The sites will provide you with information about how they collect data, use information and their privacy policy. Most sites require that you register with them first before you get access to job information. In many cases, an employer is unable to see your resume unless a fee is paid by them to use the Web site. Make sure that the job site is updated regularly to provide the latest job openings. Always be careful where you post your resume. Be professional in the presentation of information to potential employers.

Although it is illegal to discriminate on the basis of age, if you're over 50 you may find it difficult to find a job. How do you deal with age when applying for a job in which you know you are qualified?

It is difficult to hide your age on a resume and in person. Use age as an advantage. Have a job search strategy. In many cases, it takes more than five months for someone over 50 to find a new job as compared to four months for younger people, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are jobs that require your skills and experience. You may need to use an executive search firm. These firms can be found on recruiterlink.com, onlinerecruitersdirectory.com, searchfirm.com or i-recruit.com.

You need to network with former colleagues, friends and relatives so that they know you are looking for a job. According to a Right Management Survey, 42 percent of people find a job through a networking contact. Many professional associations have job search services. Emphasize your experience, specific accomplishments, measurable results and your value to an organization.

Extend your search to other industries and not-for-profit organizations that can use your skills. Join community and not-for- profit organizations so that others recognize that age has not stopped you from actively participating in these organizations. Volunteer for leadership positions. Make sure your resume is professionally prepared so that your accomplishments are easy to recognize. Practice for interviews. The interviewer should easily pick up the fact that you welcome change. Many companies look for experienced employees.

So, you want to move up...Should you hire an executive search firm?

Searching for a new position is a time-consuming process, particularly when you are employed. The executive search firm will help you save time. These firms are used by employers in identifying candidates for middle and top management positions and by individuals seeking positions in senior management. They also will provide feedback to you on your strengths and weaknesses as a job candidate. They help you prepare resumes for different job positions, cover letters, and a marketing plan to find a job. They also help you format your resume for job sites, recruiting agencies and employers.

The cost for these services can range from $5,000 to $25,000. These firms employ skilled specialists who assist you in these activities. The firms provide confidentiality, an extensive list of job opportunities, company evaluations based on extensive research, and negotiation experience and expertise. There are firms that specialize in particular occupations such as accounting, finance, engineering, health and hospital administration. For some positions, companies rely heavily on executive search firms to find qualified candidates.

If you opt for this path, choose an executive search firm carefully. To get the most out of working with an executive search firm you need to understand what the agency can do for you, how to use their knowledge and who gets to see your resume. It is important to build a good relationship with the individual with whom you are working at the firm. Choose the agency that has the experience and contacts to find you the position you are seeking after gathering information and speaking to a number of search firms.

For general career advice geared towards the government sector visit http://www.dreamfedjob.com/.

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