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Starting the Job Search

Starting the Job Search

Dear Jenny,

 

During this pandemic, I’m having a difficult time finding work. I’ve trained and am certified as an administrative assistant, but there don’t appear to be any opportunities opening up. Is there any way I can get a job, and where should I start looking?

 

Signed,

 

Desperately Jobless

Dear DJ,

 

Please do not give up hope just yet; the world is full of possibilities. You simply need to know where to look and how to approach the opportunity. So, here are some of the ways you, like many other job seekers, can find work in whatever field you are trained in.

First, diversify your skills

Before I even get into how to start looking for jobs, I have two questions for you: what do you have to offer? What will a client receive if they hire you?

 

This should be your guide before you even enter the job market. If you only have one skill up your sleeve, practice it and specialize in it. As a secretary, you have specialized your career in the administrative field. So why not do some reading and possibly get certified in bookkeeping or procurement? Make yourself an asset that any company would be lucky to have.

Digitize your career

Have you considered digitizing your job search while you’re looking for one? For example, you could work as a virtual assistant for multiple clients. Rather than relying on one person to pay you, sell your services to complete tasks and get paid for each one. In the long run, you will discover that your income has increased. It is working smartly rather than hard. So look for task-based jobs and finish them.

Create a digital CV

The internet and technology are indeed a gift to humanity. You can now upload your resume to specific websites, and the client looking for someone with your skillset will find you instead.

 

Include all of your strongholds in this online resume, as well as reliable and relevant referees who will vouch for you. Even after you’ve uploaded your online CV, go back and update it whenever you add a new skill to your portfolio. The more distinctive you are, the more likely you are to be hired.

Use several job search engines

Another thing I strongly advise is to use as many job search engines as possible. Log in regularly, search for open positions, and apply. Make each application unique by including a freshly written cover letter. When hiring managers come across a cover letter that appears to be reused, they may move on to the next applicant. So make an effort to compose a new one each time. You can use the same format but different wordings each time.

 

Searching for a job can be overwhelming, but if you are smart about it and follow these tips, you will find one quickly. Overall, I wish you the best of luck.

 

Sincerely,
Jenny