Internet Job Search Strategies - Electronic Communications
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Communication is fundamental to a successful job search. You could say that job search is communication. Consider the topics found in this guide. Communication is at the heart of these topics--
A very successful job search strategy is to make direct contact with a potential employer. It can also be very difficult. First, you have to identify the person. Then, you have to find the best way to make contact. The telephone is a popular tool for this purpose. Speaking on the telephone is an art, and it's sometimes difficult to connect with a person by phone. Email is an excellent alternative. It gives you access to the individual any time of the day or night (whenever they read their messages). It also offers greater control over your message. On the phone it's easy to say the wrong thing or say it in the wrong way. With email you can edit and refine your message until it says exactly what you want. Email can also be used to follow-up after an interview, communicate with networking contacts, references and placement professionals, and for sending your resume and thank you note. Email is a powerful and unique communication tool. It isn't as formal as a business letter, but it's more formal than a phone call. Email is most effective when communicating with people who actively use email. Many people who have email don't use it and may prefer other forms of communication. Whenever possible, find out early the person's preference for communication. Frank submitted his resume to an employer for consideration. He attempted to follow-up directly with the employer by phone to discuss his qualifications and schedule a meeting. However, the employer was never available. Frank left messages on voice mail and with the receptionist. With the help of a directory on the web, Frank was able to locate the employer's email address. He sent the employer a message introducing himself and initiated a discussion. The employer promptly responded, asking more about Frank's experience. A series of email messages was sent between Frank and the employer. The final result was the employer hired Frank.Making first contact with a stranger, especially a potential employer, is always a challenge. But it's also very necessary to an effective job search. When making first contact with someone by email, be very polite and professional. Introduce yourself with something of interest to the reader. You want to capture their attention and interest. Don't just say, "Hi, my name is Joe and I'm looking for a job." Communicate what you want from the reader. Be specific-- you're looking for information or you'd like to schedule a meeting. Finish with your intent to follow-up and an alternative way the person can contact you. If you don't receive a reply, and you're serious about making contact, try a different form of communication (call them on the phone). |
Internet Discussion Forums Networking is considered a very effective job search and career planning strategy. Building and nurturing professional relationships are important to career health. That's one of the major benefits of professional associations and clubs. But active membership usually requires time and travel. Furthermore, there may not be an organization that covers your interest in your local area. The Internet is an excellent networking tool. From the comfort of a personal computer, you can access people who share your interests. Newsgroups, message boards, email groups and chat rooms are all sources for Internet networking. Tips for Electronic Communication
Neal is a gourmet chef and a member of the Minnesota Culinary Association. He is seldom able to make the association meetings because of his busy schedule. In order to stay current with culinary trends and to improve his management skills, he participates in newsgroups and email discussion groups. Through these groups, he is able to connect with other chefs from all over the world. Neal has learned a lot from these groups which helped him improve his skills and performance. The result has been steady promotions and salary increases. Since Neal is an active participant in these groups (asking questions, responding to other participants, participating in discussions), he has built a small, but important, national reputation. As a result, many fine restaurants around the country have approached Neal to consider working for them. Good electronic communication |
Tips for Group Discussion
Networking is considered a very effective job search and career planning strategy. |
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