by Denise Gabbard

Created on: June 03, 2009   Last Updated: June 06, 2009

Getting Hired Now!

The current job market is very tight, and employers are receiving enormous amounts of qualified applicants for each job that they post. So, how do you get hired in this environment? Here are some tips!

Check out the job boards! Here are a few I recommend you take a look at, in addition to reviewing Monster, CareerBuilder, Yahoo Hot Jobs, and Craigslist:

Indeed.com Meta-search, pulls job listings from many sources.

Dice.com IT specific board

JobsinLogistics, Logjobs Supply Chain and Logistics

Hound.com Pulls directly from employer websites

Snagajob Part time jobs

Sologig Contract jobs

Go to the unemployment office nearest you and talk to the people that work there. Building a personal relationship can only help you. They may know of new orders that have just come in and aren't listed online yet, and they just might give you a call when something suitable crosses their desk. Old school, I know-but the local newspaper classified sections still have ads from employers who haven't jumped on the internet speedway yet, so be sure to check it out on Sundays and Wednesdays at the least. Make sure your resume is updated and SELLS you! (If you don't know how to do this, get help.) Call employers that you've previously worked for and find out about current openings they have. Network, network, network-call people you've worked with in the past, neighbors, friends and relatives. Let them know you're looking. You never know where that one important lead will come from. Be flexible with your salary requirements. The law of supply and demand is in play right now, and you should be aware that employers have more people than ever to choose from. (But do try to negotiate a longer vacation or other perks that might be a little more cost effective for the company.) Stick with what you know. Career changing at this point might prove almost impossible. Employers are being flooded with applications, and those with relevant experience are going to get first dibs. Your old industry might look much better to you when viewed in this new light. Personalize your cover letter to the job you're applying for, don't cookie cutter it. Tell the employer what interests you in their company or position, and what qualifies you for it more than anybody else. (Again, if you can't do this- get help. It's important!) Follow up all resume submissions with a telephone call, and all telephone conversations and personal interviews with a thank you note confirming your interest and why you are a great choice. Work for free! No, I haven't lost my mind. This can be an option if there is a job you really want, but the company seems hesitant. Ask if you can do a short term internship to prove your abilities. Do a great job, and you should be asked to stay indefinitely!

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