Job Hunting
Self-Assessment
You may have decided to work in telecommunications and related industries. There are still some things to consider. It is probably time to ask yourself these questions again:
- What do you like to do?
- What are you good at?
- Do you prefer working with your hands or working on more intellectual tasks?
- Do you prefer working in teams or autonomously?
- Do you like working in outdoors, in an office, or in a workshop setting?
Networking
This is a great way for you to learn more about your target industry or company and to build relationships. Get leads from friends, co-workers, family members, union members, your church group, PTA, etc. and contact people at the target companies informally.
A networking meeting is similar to an Interview, so check out the Interviewing Tips, and be sure to Follow-Up afterward.
Direct contact
Do some research to find individuals within a particular company for you to contact. For example, a manager or director in the department you wish to work would be ideal. You want to learn about the company and opportunities and not be put into a bucket with all the other candidates, so the Human Resources department should not be your only contact.
Your letter should catch the attention of the reader and tell them why they should talk to you and how you can meet their needs and why you would be valuable to them.
Respond to postings
Check the Job Search Links for companies that periodically post jobs on their websites as well as industry job boards and classified ads.. Write your cover letter to address the job requirements directly. For example, you can list "Job Requirements" as a left column and "My Qualifications" as a right column. This format helps the reader see how closely your background fits their needs.