The Bureau of Labor Statistics projections to 2008 indicate that approximately 20 million new jobs will be added to meet the demand in job openings. The fastest growing occupations will be seen in the areas of healthcare, computer technology and professional services. Specifically, those that will require a higher level of education will show marked increase in job openings (http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/1999/11/art1full.pdf).
How can someone prepare to compete for open positions when they are without a job or want to make a career change?
ASSESS YOUR CAREER GOALS
Prior to applying for jobs or going on an interview, take an inventory of what your short-term and long-term goals are. Employers want to know that you have a clear understanding of why you are interested in the position for which you are applying. Additionally, it is important that you are able to articulate these goals clearly in your resume, cover letter, and the interview.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
Employers consistently comment that applicants do not have knowledge of the company or organizations with which they are applying. Candidates can improve their marketability by demonstrating to the employer that they have done their research by understanding the mission, vision, culture and strategic goals of the organization. Most organizations have this information published on their website and it can easily be retrieved via the internet.
DEVELOP A WELL WRITTEN COVER LETTER AND RESUME
Today, almost all open positions require that you submit a cover letter and resume to be considered for an interview. A well-written resume and cover letter that effectively markets your skills and experience can help you get your foot in the door. Frequently, people ask where they can get assistance writing a cover letter or resume. Many resources are available on the internet by doing a search on resume writing or cover letters. You can visit your local library or bookstore and check out or buy books on these topics. Additionally, you can generally obtain assistance at your local community college by visiting their career services home page. For example, Wabaunsee Community College provides career services to community citizens. One can obtain information about this at http://www.wcc.cc.il.us/careerservices/ or by calling (630) 466-7900, ext. 2368
NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK!!!
Use every opportunity to develop a network of people who can help you through your job search and refer you to potential employers. Your network may include friends, family, current and former supervisors or colleagues, church members, past professors and other people with whom you may come in contact. Local job clubs, networking groups and job training centers can provide you with professional guidance and career information free of charge. The North Aurora Illinois Employment and Training Center (ITEC) provides free services to job seekers. You can find Information about their services and hours at http://www.ides.state.il.us/ietc/northaurora/ or you can call them to make an appointment at (630) 844-6640
The information provided to you in this article is only a brief synopsis of each topic. Read future articles in ourkendallcounty.com that will help you be a successful job seeker. Look for my upcoming article “The Power of Networking”.
Lastly, I leave you with the career website of the week where you can find information on wage, earnings and benefits, occupations, employment projections, employment research and much more.
http://www.bls.gov/
Best Regards,
Julie Cosimo
About the author
Julie Cosimo is the director of career development at Benedictine University. She graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a major in psychology and a minor in Sociology. She later earned her masters degree in education from Loyola University in College Student Personnel with a concentration in Counseling. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Higher Education and Organizational Change from Benedictine. She has worked in the career development field in higher education for the past ten years.
