Zhukova T.V., English language advisor

The importance of jobseeking process is grounded. The main jobseekers guidelines are defined. The opportunity of job interview is formulated. Actual tips for applicants are substantiated.

В статті обґрунтовано важливість процесу пошуку роботи. Визначено основні керівні принципи, яких необхідно дотримуватися при працевлаштуванні. Запропоновано актуальні поради для претендентів, які бажають зайняти вакантні посади.

For many people, the only thing harder than being out of a job is searching for one. The difficulties associated with finding employment can wear down even the most resilient jobseekers.

Jobseekers can avoid many of the mistakes that keep them from winning a job if they learn:

- how to choose the best channels for applying

- why they shouldn’t rely on online resources exclusively

- how to use their contacts effectively

By demystifying the job search process, informed jobseekers improve their chances for success—provided they’re willing to put in the hard work, time, and patience required.

Before beginning their quest for work, jobseekers should complete a personal evaluation of their goals. In particular, they should determine the type of work they want to do, where they want to do it, and for whom. Only after they have that information can they start a focused search for work.

Jobseekers should avoid what career experts call the “shotgun approach” to finding a job: “applying to 100 jobs, getting 3 interviews, and landing 1 job.”

Jobseekers should concentrate on a handful of organizations they have researched—in a business they want to be involved in for a long time.

So, jobseekers should:

- Focus selectively on companies you admire and wish to work for.

- Pursue companies—not jobs.

The Internet has transformed the job search process. Few organizations advertise job openings exclusively in printed classified ads, and some may not use print media at all. Today, information about employers, including job openings, is most often found on the Internet.

Disadvantages of using the Internet in job hunting:

- It’s difficult to differentiate yourself online

- Too many people see the same job openings

To make the most of research, jobseekers must focus their search, use online resources wisely, and develop their network of contacts.

The Internet is a helpful jobseeking research tool, but jobseekers should avoid relying solely on it to find work. Organizations tend to hire people they know or who are referred to them by someone they trust. Career experts say that organizations fill many openings through this “hidden,” or unadvertised, job market. In other words, employers often fill new positions before those openings are ever publicized.

Good professional networks are built on solid relationships. These relationships, in turn, are built on trust, something that takes time to develop. When network contacts recommend a jobseeker, their reputation is on the line.

Employers expect a jobseeker to know who they are, what they do, where they operate, and how they compare with others in the industry—especially since such information is readily available online

It is inexcusable for jobseekers not to know the basics about a company.

Useful resources include newspaper articles, industry publications, employee blogs, and online discussions. Jobseekers can use forums, also known as discussion boards, to communicate with people who work in their desired industry or organization. The most important part of jobseeking process is the job interview. The interview is a candidate’s best chance to impress a hiring manager and secure the job.

Some career experts say that job candidates should treat the interview as if it were the first day of work.

Candidates should think of the interview as a conversation, not a defense of their resume. To ready themselves for this conversation, candidates must plan their answers to questions a hiring manager might ask—and prepare their own questions for the hiring manager.

Behave professionally in all interactions with potential employers: Be punctual, courteous, honest, and positive.

The best interviews flow smoothly, like good conversation.

Common interview questions include the following:

• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

• What is your biggest weakness? Strength?

• Why do you want to work here?

• How do you handle a disagreement with another member of your team?

• What was your biggest accomplishment at your previous position?

• Why did you leave your last job?

Job candidates also have an obligation to hold up their end of the conversation. They should always ask questions that they could not answer through their own research or that arose during the interview.

After an interview, job candidates should thank the interviewer twice: in person, before leaving; and in writing, with a thank-you note.

The thank-you note is most effective when hand-written, but an email thank-you note is also acceptable.

The thank-you note should briefly reassert the candidate’s interest in the position and summarize relevant skills and qualifications.

So, in conclusion, I'd like to emphasize the importance of considered tips. Jobseekers can avoid many of the mistakes that keep them from winning a job. Keeping of proposed simple rules guarantees success in jobseeking process and applying for job.