Job hunting tips?

[RidleyofZebes]

Yeah, I lost my first job that (been working there since I was 15) back in September right before AWAcon. I've been passively looking for a job, but haven't really gotten down to it yet. I've put in a few applications here and there, but never got anything back. I keep waiting for that call... and it hasn't come. I'm getting kinda antsy now, because my surplus is running dry.

I really have no job hunting experience, because my first job... well, an old family friend actually called my mom and asked her when she was going to let me come work for her. I was hired before I even put the application in. XD

So, my friends here at CAA, I ask you... What advice can you give a jobless bum to help him become a not-jobless bum?

[Fish and Chips]

Jobs are staunchly societal creatures. Midday is when the Open Jobs gather cautiously around the communal watering holes; Taken Jobs rank higher in the social hierarchy, and drink earlier, near dawn, but you don't really want to tangle with them since they are predatory by nature, compared with the Open's more docile approach. Prolonged placidity will lead them to lower their guard, creating the perfect opening to snatch one.

If you're planning on capturing one alive, a single shot from a M1903 Springfield or better towards the front-most leg should be sufficient, though make certain not to miss; the sound of gunshot will send all capable Jobs on alert and out of your way. Otherwise, aim for the head, because nobody wants Job heads as trophies, but the pelt and meat should make a killing on the markets where such commodities are still traded.

[TheSubtleDoctor]

Seeing as you live in Redneck Country, USA, I would recommend getting a fresh shave, haircut and professional outfit.

Check job list websites for your state/area VERY OFTEN; I have found this to be more reliable than checking a newspaper.

Ideally, you want a job suited to your skill set, so create a grammatically flawless and interesting resume and cover letter; my wife has gotten jobs based on her cover letter b/c her qualifications/experience was equal to the other prospective candidates. These items not only show that you are qualified and organized, but they can convey your writing skills as well as good personal qualities If you have to pay some local English tutor or professor, then do it. It's worth it, and I think you can claim these sort of job expenses when filing tax returns. Have these suckers ready to hand out at any moment!

Drive around malls/outlets and universities searching for help wanted signs. Visit or call places you want to work and ask if they are hiring now/soon. Also do this for places that employ someone you know (who can recommend you). Maybe let this person know that you will be coming in to drop off an application tomorrow, so that it won't catch them by surprise if their manager asks about you.

Work on job hunting EVERY DAY. You should be submitting applications or giving interviews every day.

Ask your parents/other reliable folks (pastor?) if they can "put the nets out."

And...if all else fails, you can work at a pizza place until something better comes along.

[Warrior4Christ]

Yep, definitely have a error-free (grammar, spelling, etc) resume and cover letter. A good resume doesn't mean you get the job - it just means they don't throw it in the bin. The interview is the main medium for showing you're the man for the job.
Make sure you do some basic research on the company - understand their products, their position in the market, their target audience, etc. Customise your cover letter to demonstrate a basic understanding (and understanding them will be helpful in the interview stage too, of course). Also customise the resume too - include only the parts that are relevant/useful for them to read. This may mean you can't churn out 7 applications a day, but quality is nicer than quantity.

Also, use SEEK.com.au.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9obKNEE_1Q
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENS7KvyECH8

I like this guy's writing style, and he has a few good things to say about resumes, even if it is specifically about working in software.
http://www.joelonsoftware.com/articles/ResumeRead.html

[acgifford]

Put in job applications at all places you can. Dont just wait for them to call you. Bug them a bit. Dress nicely when you come in. Try not to act nervous. Try and be confident. Hope this helps.

[RidleyofZebes]

@Fish and Chips
Dude, you just made my day. XD Thanks.

@TheSubtleDoctor
You have many words of wisdom, good sir; I thank you for them. And, hey, that pizza place thing ain't so bad. It'd almost be what I was doing before.

@Warrior4Christ
I'm gonna have to check those things out. Youtube and dial-up don't like each other though... Oh well.

@acgifford
I've heard that 'bug them a bit' line before... I never thought it was a good idea, personally, but I've heard more that one person say it now... I'm beginning to wonder.

[RidleyofZebes]

...And, as a glorious, happy ending to this story, an application I put in nearly 4 months ago bore fruit this past Tuesday. I received a phone-call, an interview, and finally a job within 3 days of each other at a position very familiar to me. I've already worked 3 shifts, and I'm thoroughly enjoying it!

The only sad thing is that I will have to cut back on my CAA time once again.

But anyway, thanks for your support, guys! ^_^

[TheSubtleDoctor]

...And, as a glorious, happy ending to this story, an application I put in nearly 4 months ago bore fruit this past Tuesday. I received a phone-call, an interview, and finally a job within 3 days of each other at a position very familiar to me. I've already worked 3 shifts, and I'm thoroughly enjoying it!

The only sad thing is that I will have to cut back on my CAA time once again.

But anyway, thanks for your support, guys! ^_^

:jump::jump:

Yes! Congratulations! I am way happy for you.

[Mithrandir]

Wow! That's pretty amazing!