It’s a rare job hunter these days who hasn’t clicked on an internet site in search of a job. Although the process is a relatively simple one, it can be daunting for someone who is not quite up to date on their computer skills. If this describes you, then consider taking a community college class to become proficient. If a classroom environment doesn’t suit you, call the Computer Department and ask them for the names of student tutors. They are generally not prohibitively expensive and will be more than happy to help you. (While you’re at it, ask them to help you learn about social networking as well...)
Before you even start your internet search for a job, take a few minutes to ensure that you have all of the proper tools in front of you. First and foremost, do you have an acceptable e mail address? The address you used in your early college days (mehottie@ aol.com) just doesn’t display the correct degree of seriousness about your search!) So, go get yourself a thoroughly boring e mail address such as jobseeker@yahoo.com and you'll have the first task covered!
Next, be sure you have all of the information you need at your fingertips. This would include your past job experience and educational degrees as well as any volunteer activities in which you have engaged. (Note that it is NOT necessary, or even appropriate to list your marital status or the number of children you have on your resume. That is nobody’s business but your own.
You will also want to have handy the names of your supervisors as well as their telephone numbers. (Be aware, however, that in this day and age of privacy, many companies are not eager to share details about the workers they once hired, so that the boss you were so sure would provide a stellar recommendation may be prevented from doing so by his company when the time comes. (Moral of that story: get something in writing BEFORE you leave your old job!)
Finally, put together a list of at least three references that you can provide to a prospective employer. These do not necessarily have to be a boss—they can be co-workers or clients with whom you worked. However, make sure that whoever they are, that they are familiar with your work and can provide examples of what it is you did for ABC company. You will ALWAYS alert your references BEFORE they receive a call from another company. Not only does that help them prepare for the conversation ahead, but also, it demonstrate good etiquette on your part..
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