Well, it's that time of the school year: Senioritis is in full swing, and you need to apply for jobs until you get one. This means applying to any job you might be qualified for in your field, but you certainly don't want to waste your time. So, what do you look for when you're picking which jobs to apply for? Here are some tips to maximize your time when job hunting
1. Spotting Scams
Some posts out there are really just too good to be true. There are many scams out there for entry level positions at fake companies. If it sounds like a cookie-cutter posting, or if it just sounds too good to be true, do a web search with the word 'scam' and the company name to see if anything comes up. There are more out there than you'd think. For more tips on identifying scams, go here.
2. Basic Qualifications
Before applying to something, look at the basic qualifications. If they say that a college degree is not necessary, it may be below your level, and you may not get great pay. Try to apply to jobs that require a college degree.
3. Administrative Assistants
Beware of Administrative Assistant jobs. Yes, they sound like great entry-level jobs. The problem with many of them is that there isn't any room for promotion. Pay attention to the list of assigned duties for the job. If it is strictly clerical, stay away. You'll be stuck in that job for a long time.
4. Do Your Research
When you apply for a job, make sure you research the company. If you don't know anything about it, you may not know if you would even like the job. The company will most likely hire the candidate that knows the most about what they do. If you can't name some basic facts, don't bother applying.
5. Cover Letters
ALWAYS do a cover letter. Unless explicitly stated, always send one. If you don't send a cover letter, you may as well not apply. Your application will get thrown out simply because you didn't take the extra effort that everyone else did in your application. Make sure that you talk about your skill set and how they can help the company in each letter.
6. Aim High, Then Low
Start by applying to jobs that are slightly out of your reach. If you only have a few months of experience, apply to jobs that ask for 1-2 years. Find jobs that you know you could do if they gave you the chance and make a case for yourself. Even though it's unlikely that you get the job, you never know. If that isn't working, THEN apply to the hourly jobs that are below yoru skill level. Don't be afraid to apply for some internships either.
7. Location, Location, Location
Always think about the pay rate versus the cost of living. If you apply to a job in New York City, make sure that you would be getting paid enough to live in New York. Don't apply to hourly jobs in those locations.
8. Follow Ups
Only follow up on jobs that say calling is okay. Many job postings ask that people don't call. If it doesn't say anything, it's always better to follow up with a phone call, if possible.
9. Interviews
In your interviews, be sure to come in with questions. In addition, you should research the location and job to have a salary range in mind. If they plan to hire you, they will ask, and they will expect you to have an answer. It's hard to know how much you should make, but if you don't have any idea, chances are that you'll get screwed over.
10. Stay Calm
The most important tip is to stay calm. A lot of things in your life are about to change, and most everything is uncertain. Try to focus on what you can control, and don't worry about the rest until you can fix it.
Good luck out there.
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