Job search can be a daunting task—especially if you have not conducted a job search in the last five years. A lot has changed in our society in the last five to 10 years and those changes have impacted job search strategies. There are some classic, timeless job search tools, but there are new tools that must be considered. Furthermore, it is wise to use all of the tools in your “job search tool belt.” Job search is a dynamic process and should be approached from every angle.

• Networking—85 percent of the jobs that are found are found from networking, not job ads
• Create your sales pitch—talk about your skills, knowledge areas and abilities, not necessarily the “job titles” you have held
• Develop a networking list and set networking goals: let all your family, friends, and neighbors know that you are looking for work
• Create business cards for yourself. On one side, give your name and contact information and on the other side, list three or four skills, knowledge areas and/or abilities
• Attend networking groups such as the Professionals Moving Ahead at the CareerCenter
• Use social networking sites: LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.—remember that others can see “all of you” on these sites; keep it professional
• Attend Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, or other community group meetings
• Initiate contacts—don’t wait
• Job Fairs—a powerful tool. Learn what they are and how to “work them”
• Resume—polish it up and have at least two professionals review it for you
• Use ONET to develop your resume—http://online.onetcenter.org
• Attend a workshop for more detailed information
• Cover letter—again, polish it up, have a unique cover letter for each resume you submit
• Online applications—it is a must to know how to apply online, if you are not comfortable with online applications, attend a workshop to learn how to navigate this growing process

Use the web sites and job search publications:

• Mainecareercenter.com
• JobsInME.com
• Indeed.com
• MyJobWave.com
• Employment or staffing agencies are a must—nearly 90 percent of businesses have used an agency to fill positions—many begin as or lead to permanent hire.
• Volunteer—not only will you contribute to your community, you will build additional networking circles and you will build skills that you can add to your resume—it’s a win-win!
• Conduct informational interviews to explore industries and jobs that you may not have held previously
• Meet with hiring managers, not necessarily just the HR staff
• Prepare questions that will provoke helpful conversations
• Bring resumes—you may not be asked, but be prepared in case you are
• Get referrals for other informational interviews
• Send a thank you note
• Previous employers—contact them to see if they have openings or know of openings in the same industry
• Attend school or training or consider refresher courses while unemployed