4 Old-Fashioned Job Search Tips worth Preserving | The Business ...

In the age of the Web 2.0, job search tips are mushrooming by the blog. Indeed, job search strategy blogs are perhaps one of the most ubiquitous sites out there, and it completely makes sense, seeing as how social media and networking have revolutionized the way we find jobs. Still, in my previous experience, both as someone who has applied for jobs and interviewed with different companies, and as someone on the other side of the desk reading applications and interviewing candidates, I?ve noticed some things never should change. Here are a few oldies but goodies to incorporate in your job search techniques.

1. Prioritize the cover letter.

Having been recently placed in the position to read applications and conduct interviews, I?ve noticed the absolutely horrifying quality of most cover letters I?ve read. The amount of clich?s, grammar errors, and overall cluelessness is surprising to say the least. Think of the cover letter as your 2 minute pitch convincing employers to hire you. Would you hire someone who called themselves a supposed ?team player? who has ?excellent communication skills? without explaining themselves? Would you take a second glance at a candidate who dots their letter with instant messenger speak? Probably not. You will be judged on your cover letter, so be sure to work on several drafts that specifically target the company and the open position.

2. Go out with friends, but talk to strangers, too.

Networking in the real, offline world isn?t simply a matter of thinking of only the people in your current ?network.? Like dating, it?s a matter of putting yourself out there. Whenever you are out with friends or you are at a party, be sure to strike up conversations with strangers. You?ll never know which important, potentially career-changing person you will meet if you don?t try.

3. Write thank you notes and send them via snail mail.

Although this is certainly not a step that is absolutely instrumental in securing a job, it?s one of the most thoughtful gestures I can think of. Taking the time to thank your interviewers after an interview demonstrates that you are grateful, that you understand proper etiquette, and, most importantly, that you cared about the job that much that you were willing to put in extra effort, no matter how small.

4. Learn to play golf or participate in any other sport or activity that is considered rich with networking possibilities.

Some people scoff at the game of golf, thinking that its one of those games reserved only for the moneyed classes. Nothing could be further from the truth, as I played golf throughout my life despite being from a decidedly middle-class background. Golf and any other sport or activity that incorporates socializing as a main component, is bound to be a nesting ground for networking. Figure out which of these activities you enjoy most, what you have a bit of talent in, and go out there, even if you aren?t hitting the links.

These are just a few strategies I?ve used over the course of my career that have served me well. Do you have other old-fashioned tips that have helped you in your job search?

By-line:

Mariana Ashley is a freelance writer who particularly enjoys writing about online colleges. She loves receiving reader feedback, which can be directed to mariana.ashley031@gmail.com.

Source: http://www.thebusinessedition.com/4-old-fashioned-job-search-tips-worth-preserving-2395/

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