Finding a job can be hard work! It can be a rollercoaster of applications, interviews and rejections. You need to be tough, have a positive attitude, keep an open mind and persevere until you find the right opportunity. Having a strategy and a plan when looking for a job will ensure your job search is as effective as possible...

Step 1: Get organised!

Organising your job search will make finding a job much easier. Make a folder to hold all the papers you will need to apply for a job and keep track of the jobs for which you have applied for. In your job folder, you may want to include the following:

• Your CV
• Contact information for your references
• Certified copies of your ID
• Certified copies of academic qualifications
• A list of all the jobs for which you have applied
• A list of all the jobs for which you intend to apply
• Any information you have gathered about possible employers
• Previous application letters you have written (to use as templates for future letters)
• Contact information for previous employers
• Details about prizes you have earned and volunteer positions you have held

Step 2: Know where to look

Current rates of unemployment can make finding job opportunities difficult. To give yourself the edge, use every available resource to find information about potential jobs.

• National and community newspapers’ classifieds and employment supplements
• The Internet. A number of sites are devoted to advertising available positions and keeping you updated about new jobs if you supply then with your employment profile. Individual companies also often list jobs offered on their websites.
• A local Labour Centre. Contact the National Department of Labour or the Umsobomvu Youth Line to find a labour centre near you offering job-finding services.
• Visit local companies to ask about possible employment opportunities. Ask to speak to the Human Resources manager and describe the type of employment you’re seeking, your skills and leave your CV.
• Community notice boards – whether at the local clinic, supermarket, church or community center.
• Use contacts. Your employed friends and family members can find out about available positions where they work. A personal referral can be very valuable.

Step 3: Be Confident, yet realistic:

It’s important to be honest about your personality and skills when deciding whether or not to apply for a job.

Ask the following questions to clarify whether you’re a good candidate for a job:

• What skills are needed to do the job well?
• Does the job require me to work well with others?
• Is this a part time or full time job?
• Does the employer want past experience?
• What level of education does the job require?
• Is this an affirmative action position?
• What personality traits does this job require?

Remember to be confident. You don’t need to meet every requirement in order to apply for a job. Take pride in the skills that you do have, and let these make up for the one or two requirements that you don’t meet. You are trying to show that you would be a great employee, so stay positive, strong and passionate.