Job hunting

Getting a job is a very hard period in the life of most people. Companies choose an employee from hundreds of candidates according to special rules, that’s why there are special ‘typical’ factors, influencing on employer’s choice. They are: age, sex, experience, family background and marital status, personality and references.

Here are the steps you need to take to get a job:

- decide what you want to do;

- get the training or education you need;

- search for jobs;

- write a resume/CV and a cover letter;

- apply for jobs (send a resume/CV and a cover letter or fill out an application);

- go for an interview;

- provide references;

- send a thank you letter.

If you take the time to plan your career you’ll be a lot happier with the job you get and probably make more money too.

The more skills and education that you have, the better jobs you’ll be able to get and the more money you’ll make. What level of training or education that’s right for you depends on what kind of job you want.

Here are four of the best ways to search for a job (for the most success, do as many of them as you can):

- search for jobs online;

- go to a one-stop career center;

- look in the newspaper;

- networking.

Job search letters

Perhaps one of the most confusing aspects of finding a job that you’ll face is writing appropriate job search letters.

The main of them are: a cover or application letter, a resume or CV (curriculum vitae), and your letters of reference.

An application letter is also called a cover letter because it explains your purpose for sending in the other papers, that is, your hope of getting a job at the organization to which you mail your application papers. It should be short (no more than one page), follow a certain format, and contain definite information.

A resume or CV is a detailed record of personal accomplishments. It presents briefly what the person has achieved in education, job experience, special honors, publications, and includes professional activities, personal information, and even outstanding achievements in the person’s area of special interests and hobbies. All of this data should be listed in an easy-to-read form. If possible, all of the infor­mation should be on one page. The interviewer usually sees the resume before he sees the applicant. The resume gives the first impression of the applicant to the employer. It should be neat and well or­ganized. It is usually a good idea to attach the resume to the letter of application. Always send it with a cover letter; never send it alone. An applicant should bring additional copies of her resume to the interview.

Job interview

Getting the job you want can sometimes depend on the success of the job interview. During the interview the employer will try to find out what kind of person you are, what experience you have, and how you can fit into the job situation.

After you have got an appointment, review the information that you wrote on your application form and resume. Practice talking about your education and previous job experience both in the USA and in your native country. Be prepared to explain your skills and abilities specifically.

Go to the interview alone; don't take your friends or children with you. Plan to arrive about ten minutes before the appointment time. Wear appropriate clothing; a neat ap­pearance will make a good impression.

During the interview look directly at the interviewer and answer all of her questions as specifically as you can. Ask any questions that you have about the job, such as hours, salary, or job benefits. Write down these questions before you go to the interview. Before you leave, there should be a clear understanding about all aspects of the job.

At the close of the interview, express your thanks and be sure that the interviewer knows how to contact you if she wants to hire you.