A Few Helpful Tips to Increase Future Job Prospects

By Erik P. Gabaldon | Mar 04, 2013 11:44 PM EST

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Looking for a job, or waiting for the right career opportunity can be stressful and discouraging. One particularly rememberable piece of advice is to utilize all resources that are available at hand: free local job search engines, career/job fairs and if convenient to your area, temp-agencies can be very useful if you're in a pinch and need to scrape-up a couple of bucks before rent is due. Most temp agencies, for example, like Labor Ready provide a day to day payment method.
A well written and polished cover-letter and resume symbolize professionalism and organization. It's surprising at the amount of people who do not use cover-letters. Many applicants submit only a resume and usually do not attach a cover-letter, so by attaching one, especially a polished gem, this will make you stand out and display your communication skills and will formally show what you have to offer.

 Appearance can be another variable depending on who is conducting the interview--so always look sharp. Body language, speech and the pronunciation of your words are very important. Communication skills are something an employer is always looking for in a good employee. Speak clearly, be attentive and humble; and if social-anxiety comes knocking at the door, do not open it.
Another underestimated factor in the job-hunting process is organization. Instead of walking into an interview with a few stapled pages together, uncombed hair with a wrinkled shirt and second-hand slacks, take a moment to assess your looks and what you are providing the employer: essentially you are selling yourself. Keep loose papers, cover-letter, resume and examples of work(portfolio)in a simple black folder; and if you can afford it, something preferably leather bound would be a professional looking choice--even a small leather satchel can be quite effective. Stand out. Give them a reason to remember you, or a reason why they should consider you for the position.
Job search engines(Snag-a-Job.com, Monster.com) are a quick and efficient way to pump-out the volume of cover-letters, resumes and applications per day--normally the site will automatically up-load and send your documents to the designated employer of choice without the hassle of surfing employer's web-sites individually.
And most importantly: confidence, time and attitude. If you believe in yourself, be patient and with the right attitude the job of your dreams is just right around the corner.

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