The Office Professional's Career Path:

Investigating the Job Markets

When you embark on your job campaign, the first step is to survey the various job markets on the basis of your skills and interests.  In today's competitive market, it is best to consider several sources, not just one, to locate prospects.  

The following possible sources could lead you to the right place and position.

1. Direct-Application

    One of the most effective ways to secure employment is to list companies where you would like to work. Then take the initiative to visit their personnel offices or send an application letter together with your resume.  The Yellow pages of the telephone directory will provide a classified listing of the business offices you may want to contact.

2. Friends or Relatives

    Spread the word around your family and circle of friends that you are looking for a job.  Request them to check the listings of job openings in their companies and the names of the appropriate personnel to contact.  If someone refers you to an opening, be courteous and let them know of the outcome.

3. School Placement Office

    Most schools maintain a placement office to assist graduates seeking employment, and many companies prefer to coordinate directly with these offices.  The placement office is an excellent job source.  The placement maintains a list of job openings from the requests of managers who contact them in search of prospective employees.  Schedule an appointment with the director and seek guidance and assistance.

4. Professional Placement Agencies

    Employment agencies provide job placement services for a fee.  An applicant usually signs a contract in which the fee terms are stated.  A major advantage of the agency is that it relieves the applicant of much of the repetitive detail work involved in job hunting.  The staff of the agency can screen, test, and interview each applicant prior to referring to the specific company for final screening.

5. Newspaper Advertisements

    The newspaper want ads provide an excellent way to get an idea of the job available in your field, their skill requirements, and salary range.  If an ad appeals to you, follow carefully the directions given for making an application.

6. Internet

    Many corporations use the Internet to post job openings.  These corporations have websites that provide information about careers and positions available. Job applicants view updated job openings here and can send their resume instantly via-Email.  These sites also give tips on resume building, job interviews, salary and benefits negotiations, among others.  Some company Websites match new openings with the qualifications of candidates who previously visited the site, notifying them by E-mail of the opportunities.

REFERENCE:

The Administrative Professionals in the Global Office, Lilia A. Alegre, Milagrina A. Gomez, Concepcion B. Mapa, & Zaida R. Lopez