How To Do a Career Search

Have you lost your job and now due to the economy cannot find another, or are you considering a change in your career? Where do you start when seeking a new career, and how do you make the change?  Many people would like to do a career search but may need a bit of encouragement to take the leap.

Every avenue must be pursued because the competition in nearly every field is intense.  With that in mind it's a good idea to begin your search with the internet. By using the internet to narrow your choices, you save yourself the time and expense of driving around to libraries and colleges until you have a definite plan of action. With a little online research, you can find out about community college courses available if you are pursuing a new career - or you can use it to find local and national companies that are hiring. Many people these days are gaining new acquaintances via the internet by connecting to job networking groups.  Make sure to register with the different job search sites as well. Also, do not forget your local job search center provided by the county.  In many of the larger urban areas, online registration is available.

Word of mouth should never be underestimated. If you tell your favorite neighbor of your job search, she may mention it to her uncle who has a friend...you get the idea. Don't forget family and friends. Just mentioning to them as well as local businesses around town that you are doing a career search, may get you a lead that turns into an interview, free or reduced-cost classes, or even a job. You may consider having business cards made that you can hand out to anyone with your contact information and your line of work.  This is a simple networking trick that can get you leads on job openings and career resources in your area.

Be sure to check the local newspapers; many employers use the internet but a large percentage also still use the printed page. If your local coffee shop or grocery store has a bulletin board, check that as well.  You might also want to post your own ad on the bulletin board.

The trades are having a tough time right now, but many people who have entrepreneurial spirits have found other ways to use their talents.  Perhaps you can start your own business; instead of new construction, for example, you could use your talents to do handyman work or remodeling. You can register a trade name with the state and build your own website for a nominal fee, or even for free if you are willing to do it yourself.

Likewise, any customer service experience is very valuable and should never be omitted from your resume.  Make sure to put together a good resume and cover letter, and to have access to a valid email address and phone service.  With these few tips you can start doing a career search today.