The ultimate job search guide: Your dream job is out there somewhere, but a successful expedition takes time, a thorough exploration, and the proper tools

Careers and Colleges, Jan-Feb, 2002 by Tracey Randinelli

Cold Calling

Sending out unsolicited resumes may not be the most effective way of finding a job--especially with companies on the alert for anthrax in the mail, but Shel Horowitz, director of Accurate Writing & More, tells the story of a client who wanted a job in New York City's fashion industry. "She blitzed the industry--sent letters to everyone she could think of saying, 'This is why you need me.' In six months, she had the job she always wanted."

Although you might find a position sending a resume to human resources, you're probably better off contacting the person who actually hires people in the department you're interested in. Three or four days later, phone that person's office and confirm that they've received your material. Once you've made it that far, inquire about job possibilities and hiring procedures.

Agencies

For new graduates, the majority of employment agencies and headhunters can be a waste because most agencies don't handle entry-level positions. On the other hand, obtaining a short-term assignment through a temporary agency can give you and a company the chance to check each other out.

Classified Ads

They may be old-fashioned, but don't ignore the want-ads in your local paper or in your industry's professional journals. They can still lead to the golden job. Be sure to customize your cover letter for the advertisement you're answering. If it's not a blind ad, call the company and find out who's actually responsible for hiring that position, and, if it's a different person from the ad, send your resume directly to him or her as well.

ACE THE INTERVIEW

"People don't hire from resumes--they hire from interviews," says Cohen of California State in Los Angeles. During that hour or so, interviewers are judging your interpersonal skills, dedication, curiosity, and enthusiasm--and, you're determining whether or not you would be a good fir with the company.

It's not surprising that experts say preparation is the key to a successful interview. The best preparation is four-fold:

* Research the company.

"People are far more impressed with a candidate who's obviously done his or her homework," says WetFeet's Pollock. At the least, you should have a basic knowledge of the company: its mission, its key products or clients, its annual revenue, where it's headquartered, who its competitors are. All of this information is often available on most companies' Web sites. You may also try to get an annual report or advertiser packet. You'll score more points, says Horowitz, if you familiarize yourself with several different projects the company has completed and consider how you might have handled the situations.

* Be ready to sell yourself. You need to clearly state why you want the job and what you can offer the firm. Pollock suggests listing three things you want the interviewer to remember about you when the interview is over. "Maybe you have great analytical capabilities or a passion for the semiconductor business--think of those things and make sure you get them across."