8 Super Smart Ways to Find a Job ...

It is said that most jobs are never publicly advertised. So one of the smart ways to find a job is to make connections and network with people. The more people that you know, the better your chances of hearing about job opportunities within their organization. So never miss a chance to get acquainted with someone.

Another possibility is to write ´on spec´ letters to firms. This is particularly relevant if you have a certain career in mind. Compose a letter enquiring if they have any vacancies, or if they could keep your resume on file and contact you if any vacancies occur. Don´t forget to attach your resume with the letter!

If your job hunting is not going well, then there is an alternative to working for someone else. Create your own job! If you´re dynamic and energetic, think of starting a small business or offer your services as a consultant. This takes a lot of energy and commitment, but can pay off handsomely in the long run.

Most cities have a number of business organisations. Joining one or more can be an excellent route to finding a great job. As I´ve mentioned before, networking can be crucial in the search for a job, so join up, attend meetings, and get to know as many people as you can.

Opportunities can pop up in the most surprising places, so get chatting to everyone and anyone. You never know who they are until you talk to them – they may have or know of just the opportunity that you are looking for. Even random conversations can lead to ideas and connections.

An alternative to sending ´on spec´ letters is to visit offices in person and ask if you can speak to the Human Resources manager. It shows that you are really keen regarding your job hunting, and that you have initiative. If they are available and willing to speak with you, you will have the chance to show them that you are more than just a name on a resume.

I´m not a big fan of doing internships or working for free, but sometimes it can be a chance to show a firm what you are capable of. You do have to be careful that you are not exploited and that there is the genuine chance of a job at the end. At its best, though, doing some free work can get your name and abilities known.

Volunteering has long since been a popular way of getting into paid work. Sometimes it is useful to do voluntary work directly related to the field you are interested in, in order to gain experience. Equally, gaining experience of any kind can make you more attractive to employers, showing that you have skills and commitment.

In the highly competitive job market of today, you have to use very smart ways to find a job. Job hunting is incredibly difficult and daunting when there are hundreds of people chasing each vacancy, and few firms seem to be hiring. So you´ve got to be smart, inventive and make yourself stand out from the crowd. What is the most unusual way in which you found a job?

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