Get a Job

3 Parts:

6 Steps to Get a Job

Stay Motivated

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Whether you've been out of work for a while or are simply unhappy with your current position, you may be wondering how you can get hired and move on -- quickly. In this article, we will review every stage in the job application process and offer tips that will help you improve your chances of landing that new job as soon as possible. Some of these steps will be quite easy to do and you may be doing them already. For other steps, you may need to take a bit more time to prepare and plan.

1. 1
   Write a great CV or Resume

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   You need to take the time, if you haven't already, to really develop your CV. This may involve some trial and error until you find a format and presentation style that works for you. Don't be afraid to browse sample CVs online, or even ask your friends for help. Someone may have a style that you really like and will be able to copy, using your own information, of course. In general, make sure that your CV is targeted to the job you want. You may find that you need to remove some of your past experience to complete this task. Also, make sure that you use industry or job-specific keywords to increase the chances that the hiring manager will open and review your CV. If you need additional help creating a CV, view our tutorials on how to Prepare and Present a CV or Resume and how to Make Curriculum Vitae Resume.

   

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2. 2
   Focus your job search and make use of job search tools

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   While you may be tempted to apply for every job available, it is probably best to focus your efforts on the jobs you are interested in and qualified for. Create a target list of those jobs. Whether by location, company, or type of job, you will be able to better limit your search for the best results. Additionally, if you will be using internet job search engines to look for opportunities, take advantage of advanced search options or even job alerts, if and when they are available. These extra tools can help you save time by returning only search results you want to see. If you use a job search alert, you will receive e-mail alerts for jobs that match your search criteria.

   

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3. 3
   Don't forget to use social networks

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   Many jobs are still found through social networks, and you never know who may be able to help you in your search. Of course, no one will ever be able to help you if they don't know you're looking. Therefore, it makes sense to attend events and expand your network -- especially in fields that interest you. Make sure people you are at least acquainted with know of your interest. Your friends and acquaintances may not be able to guarantee you a job, but they may be able to help you meet the right person. You just need to make sure they know you may be a good fit.

   

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4. 4
   Look professional for your interview

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   When you're searching for a job, appearance matters. Take the time to prepare and look like a successful person. Pressed, clean clothing and good hygiene will help you make a positive first impression. Different positions and industries will have different requirements for their staff, but you will likely be expected to maintain a clean and professional appearance as a representative of the company. This will include not only your attire and hygiene, but also your hairstyle, makeup (for women), and fragrance. For the last items (hairstyle, makeup, and fragrance), soft and natural is typically the best option.

   

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5. 5
   Be authentic and honest

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   When you arrive for an interview, you want to put forward the best version of yourself. You also want to make sure that you are honest about who you are and what you offer. If you aren't honest, it will be increasingly difficult for you to keep up appearances. While you should present yourself as comfortable, confident, and capable, try to avoid answering questions with information you think the interviewer wants to hear. If the interviewer doesn't pick up on your act and you get hired, going to work later could become uncomfortable if you've pretended to be someone you're not. You should wait for the right opportunity rather than accept a job in a company you will not be a good fit for. Don't forget that jumping from job to job can also decrease your chances of successfully being hired with other companies if you decide to leave.

   

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6. 6
   Thank your interviewer and follow up

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   Many people don't follow up their interview with a thank-you letter or even a sincere thank you. However, writing a thank-you note to your interviewer or interviewers can be a good way to make yourself stand out. A thank-you note can be used to clarify any points that were discussed during the interview, mention anything you may have left out, and even reiterate your interest in and enthusiasm for the position. Also, by writing a letter, as opposed to an email message, you're much more likely to have it read by the person who interviewed you. Email messages are easy to ignore, and anyone who receives thousands of emails a week is very unlikely to take a minute to read yours. So, write a thank-you letter. It's much more likely to be read. For help writing a thank-you note, be sure to read our article on how to Write a Thank You Letter.

   

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Applying for jobs can be a long, time-consuming, and stressful process. By taking note of the tips contained in this article, you will be able to focus your search, minimize your stress, and land a new job that is a good fit for you faster. Remember to keep your head up. Waiting for the right job is a lot like waiting for the right relationship. While there are things you can do, such as taking care of your appearance or bettering yourself, sometimes you just have to wait.

For other job search and CV or resume tips, you may want to read the following how to articles:

• Apply for a Job;
• Have Success in Finding a Job;
• Manage Money;
• Teach Your Child to Save Money;
• Save Money.

If you have problems with any of the steps in this article, please ask a question for more help, or post in the comments section below.

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