Job Search Strategy

Finding a job in times of economic chaos can be very difficult and if you are to succeed, you need to be sure you have the right job search strategy in place.

And you need to keep track of your job applications so that you don't miss any closing dates or any other important deadlines.

To maximize your chances of getting hired, you should incorporate a number of techniques into your job search plan. So if you are currently just applying to jobs which are advertised in the press, you need to broaden your horizons and look at some more effective ways to find a job.

So if you have internet access at home you could consider submitting some online applications. Take some time to familiarize yourself with individual job boards so that you can figure out which are the most suitable for your needs and then work out how they function.

Another way in which you can increase the number of applications you send out is to register with local employment agencies. Once they have read your CV or résumé and talked to you, they will submit your details to a number of employers and then contact you if a company wishes to interview you.

But the best way to get a job, according to all the experts, is to build a network of contacts. You've heard the expression "it's not what you know, it's who you know" and this seems to be the case with finding a job.

Quite a few of the jobs I've been offered in the past were through contacts. You may still have to have a formal interview, but this is still the most effective way to find a job.

How do you build a network? It's easier than you think - just talk to people, you never know who will know someone who can help you. Make a point of keeping in touch with your contacts and get to know new people through job fairs, former colleagues, friends and family, as well as online networking sites.

The Jobseekers' Success Kit contains detailed information on how to build your network, as well as how to write your CV or résumé, prepare for an interview, and much , much more.