by Cherrine Banks

Created on: September 02, 2008   Last Updated: July 22, 2010

The end of summer is here. No more lazy beach days, great street fairs, or all day mall trips. Now is the time when some of us think about new jobs during the fall season when most human resources/recruiters have returned from their summer vacations. However, it is a good idea to get a head start by sending out your resume, updating your interview outfits, and reviewing possible interview questions.

There are a variety of ways to obtain information about the job/employment options. Here are important things to consider while job hunting:

1) What type of job is desired?

You need to determine the type of job desired. Some jobs such as customer service, telem-arketing, and telephone insurance claim examiner require your working inside while jobs such as pet sitting, outside sales, and home health care nurses will allow going outside. outside.

2) What are your qualifications for the job?

Consider your education, employment history, passions, and talents before considering a job search. If you go to an interview and do not meet the minimum qualifications, it would waste your time. However, if you meet most of the advertised requirements and it is a possible 2nd or 3rd choice then you may want to follow with an interview.

3) What are the hours of the job?

If the job gives a broad range of work hours such as 7 pm est. to 7 pm est. and your can not fulfill the time frame for physical/educational/family reasons you should be up front. If you apply through an employment agency and you do not fulfill the time It may cause a severe mark against your future relationship with the agency.

4) Where is the location of the desired job?

If you go to the interview during non-standard business hours, you must consider this when accepting the job. Traffic/Public transportation may add significantly to your estimated time frame which can cause you to be late/not show up as expected.

5) What is the entire compensation including salary, bonuses, commissions, work/life balance, and future opportunities?

Most people consider the salary and benefits such as medical/dental/vacation/holidays of a job offer. However, you should consider if you need special consideration. For example, as a parent of young children with regular child support you may need more time off to support a work/life balance. On the other hand, if you are semi-retired with a guaranteed pension your primary concern may be medical insurance. Only you can determine your best work choice.

Honestly, before you decide to seek extensive help from family/friends/associates consider investigating options via the internet, the library, or volunteer work before making a major change. For instance, your new company's health plan may exclude a prior medical condition.

As you search for your next job, take the time to consider all the pros and cons before making a final decision.

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