In our current Internet age, many recent graduates and professionals don't consider their job hunt to be an "offline" activity. We're constantly being reminded that our job search can be easy and convenient thanks to major job search engines like Monster, CareerBuilder and Yahoo! Jobs. Furthermore, we can connect with other professionals with tools like Facebook and LinkedIn. There are tons of online articles about how to find a job online, how to build your resume and how to nail the interview.
These are all valuable tools that should not be disregarded. An ongoing online search for open positions is the crux of any serious job hunt. The online venues for job searching cannot and should not be ignored in today's day and age. In addition to making it easier for us job hunters to find a position, it also makes it easier for employers to post open positions and sort through potential job candidates.
However, every recent graduate and professional looking for work needs to extend their job search beyond their computer screen. There's a wealth of opportunities available to you that you simply won't find online. Remember that the vast majority of today's workforce, especially the executives who post job openings and hire job applicants, did not use the Internet to find work. For many of these professionals who came from pre-Internet generations, an in-person introduction is preferred to one received via email. Furthermore, they like to look at hard copies of applicant resumes rather than an electronic document.
While this isn't the case for every employer, it definitely helps for job hunters to open themselves up to job search opportunities that can be found online. The list below provides three viable options for finding work without the use of a computer. Consider adding these tactics to your job hunting strategy, keeping in mind that by using these means of job searching you are likely to find out about positions which are not posted online and, therefore, have less competition due to fewer applicants.
1. Network, Network, Network.
It's absolutely critical that job hunters network within their field of expertise. If you want a job in health care, for example, make sure you get involved with professional associations and groups in your field. This will present you with the opportunity to meet other professionals that can either let you know about a recent job opening or give you some advice for your job search.
2. Use Your Connections.
Almost everyone has at least one underutilized connection. While you may think of "having connections" as something only the rich can benefit from, this isn't just about who your family knows and whether you've met a big executive of a top company (although those things can also be helpful). Think about all the other people you've met along the way to becoming a professional. This includes teachers, professors, friends and internship supervisors. Each of these people may be able to provide you with some insight or alert you when they find out about a position that's perfect for you.
3. Inquire In-Person.
If you really want a job in a particular field, don't be shy - ask for it! Think of a few places in your area which you consider to be a place you'd like to work, and then go for it. Make a phone call or walk right in and ask if they have any current job openings or whether they accept resumes. Be prepared with your resume in hand and keep a positive attitude; if they say "no," politely thank them and try back again in a month or two. The fact that you are being a go-getter who knows what they want just might impress that potential employer.
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