7 of 17

Write now Article Tools

There is only one rule to remember when job-hunting - you can't get a job if you don't apply for it! Think of applying for jobs as shooting arrows - some will hit the target, some won't. Fire them off and don't fret too much if they don't hit the target - you have an endless supply of arrows, so just fire off another one.

Very few people think of job hunting that way. It's human nature to be afraid of rejection, so we tend to apply only to jobs where we think we have a really good chance of success. But you will have a much better chance of succeeding if you apply for everything you're qualified for, even if it seems a little too senior for you, or demands a bit more experience than you have just yet. You never know, you may be lucky - and the worst they can do is say no. I have twice applied for jobs that I thought were far above me - I thought they sounded interesting and they were in a field I really liked. To my surprise, I landed both jobs: it so happened there was a great shortage of people with the necessary experience, and I was the next best thing. It didn't hurt that I had written an excellent application letter (or so I was told).

A smart, professional job application is absolutely vital to your success. Many people spend hours preparing their resume and forget that the first thing the employer sees is their cover letter. An effective job application needs a great cover letter even more than it needs a good resume. If you're going to be shooting a lot of arrows, it's much quicker to write a comprehensive resume that never needs changing, and attach a cover letter that highlights all your relevant qualifications and experience.

Once you've written the letter and mailed it, put the job advert away in your file and FORGET ABOUT IT! Yes, that's right. No wishful thinking, no wondering if they'll like you, no fretting if you'll get the job. Simply move on to the next advertisement. If you don't get caught up in expectations, you won't be so disappointed if you don't get it.

You'll find lots of advice in books and websites about networking, approaching companies without waiting for ads to appear, and so on. It's true there are lots of jobs that are filled without advertising - but personally, I've never found these approaches to be much help. Responding to advertised jobs in the smartest way you can, and signing up for every employment agency you can find, are the most reliable ways to find a job in the end.

Learn more about this author, Dancing Queen.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Tips for success in searching for a job?
We want to hear your view. Write now!