Using Job Advertisements

One commonly-used, but only moderately effective method of job searching is to utilize publicized job openings. Most typically these listings are found in the Want Ads of your local Sunday paper. Other sources of advertised job openings include job listing sites on the internet, jobs advertised via t.v. and radio, job hot lines, job bulletins, and other job postings. This resource is commonly used because it is easy to find and access. Unfortunately, its strengths of ease and accessibility contribute to its weakness: overexposure. Almost all job seekers will be using these resources which means there will be a lot of competition. Many organizations will save themselves time and money by first utilizing other methods to fill positions such as internal and external referrals (networking) before placing an ad in the paper. Therefore, some jobs may never be advertised.

To increase the effectiveness of advertised job openings, respond to ads quickly and follow up with the employers by phone one to two weeks after you send your application materials.

Also determine which sources will be most beneficial for your needs. The Career Resource Centers subscribe to a variety of job bulletins listing current opportunities in several fields. Job listing sites on the World Wide Web can be another useful resource, but research sites carefully before sinking a lot of energy into them. Some sites cater to specific professions or geographical areas that won’t be applicable to you. Use The Riley Guide for more resources on the internet job search.