The best time to look for a job is when you already have one, or when you're still in school. Don't wait until your current job has ended – or classes have finished – before starting your search (if you are desperate for work, you are more likely to make quick decisions that you could regret later).
How to Find a Job (Good Ideas)
There are several basic methods of looking for work:
- Networking Talk to everyone who may be able to help you, and give each of them a copy of your updated resume. Word of mouth is still the most common method of finding a job.
- Direct Contact Call or write to employers you have an interest in. Ask to arrange a visit.
- Job Postings including those in newspapers & magazine classified ads, bulletin boards, Cable TV scrolling ads, and government-funded Employment Centres. And don't forget the Internet! These days, more job openings are posted on the Internet than on any other single medium. The best source of Canadian job postings is the Job Bank operated by Service Canada. Make sure you look there first, before investigating other job advertisements.
- Employment Agencies Many businesses advertise job openings through employment agencies. But be aware that agencies are profit-seeking companies. They may charge a fee for their services, or deduct a percentage of your pay. It's wise to learn all the details beforehand.
- School Placement Office or Guidance Department You don't necessarily have to be a student to investigate these sources. Many community colleges have a job finding service that is available to anyone – not just students.
- Trade Associations and Service Clubs including trade shows, job fairs, chambers of commerce, business associations. Merely getting involved in these activities may help you with your job search.
- The Phone Book This is one resource that is often overlooked – but shouldn't be. Bell's Yellow Pages or The Phone Guide's Yellow Section can be especially helpful for those who have recently moved to a new location, or for anyone who is unfamiliar with the companies and services in their area. If you're stuck for ideas on where to find work, the Phone Book is to job seekers what the Sears Wish Book is to Christmas gift buyers.
- Volunteer Not only will volunteering give you valuable experience (which you can then add to your resume), it also shows that you are genuinely interested in working for an organization. Volunteer work can sometimes lead to paid employment, but even if it doesn't, you will have increased the size of your job-seeking network, gained another reference, and perhaps even found someone willing to write a letter of referral which you can then present to prospective employers.
The more methods you use, the greater your chances of finding employment.