When you began your job search, where was the first place you started looking? The internet? The newspaper? These are great places to begin your search, and they should definitely be part of your search plan, but they certainly aren’t the only places to look.

Talk It Up
When searching for a job, talk about it to everyone you know. Let friends and family members know that you are looking and ask them to please keep you in mind when they hear of an employer that is hiring.

Another place to talk about your job search is at a professional association meeting. You do belong to a professional association that has a local chapter near you that meets regularly, right? No? Get thee to Google and look up your nearest professional organization - and go to the next meeting. This is a fantastic way to network - and to let the right people know that you are searching for a job. If you choose to go this route bring copies of your resume to the meeting. Now, you’re not going to go and just saturate the meeting with your resume. Be sure and get into conversations with people. If your job search comes up in conversation, feel free to pass on your resume.

Looking to change careers? Become a member of the professional association of the industry you’re hoping to break into. By attending local meetings, you will not only meet people that can potentially give you a job, but you will gain valuable information about the industry and what it takes to be a professional in that industry.

Look Where You Want To Go
Are there companies out there that you would love to work for? Check out their web sites. Most companies have a page on their web site where they post open positions. This is a great way to see what is available, and to get additional information about the company. Also, see if the company offers any kind of e-newsletter. If so, subscribe to it. This is a great way to learn more about the company.

Staffing Agencies
Check out staffing agencies that specialize in the type of job you’re looking for. There are agencies that specialize in accounting, HR, management, office staff and labor. Many times, they place employees in temp-to-hire positions. A temp-to-hire assignment is a great way for you to get to know a company before you officially join the staff. When speaking with a staffing agency, be clear about the types of positions you are looking for, and the amount of money you want to work for. Keep in mind, these agencies answer to many different clients. It may take some time for them to place you, and at first, you may be offered assignments that don’t meet your criteria. The key is to stay in touch with the agency - check in at least once a week. And, choose an agency that is right for you. Visit and interview with a few agencies.

Go Back To School
Did you attend college or a trade school? Contact the career services department to find out if they know of anyone that is hiring. Many times, employers contact these resources to post positions or get in contact with potential candidates.

Career Fairs
This is an excellent way to put yourself in front of many employers in a short amount of time. Do a search online for job fairs in your area. Many times, there will also be advertisements in the job section of the newspaper. Be sure and bring plenty of resumes, dress professionally, and be warm and friendly. Also, make it a point to speak to every employer there. Even if you think they won’t have a position that is right for you. It never hurts to make a contact. Then, in the future, if the company posts a position that is right for you, you can contact the person you met and re-introduce yourself.

There are many creative ways to conduct a job search. Have a brainstorming session and discover how many ways you can get the word out that you’re on the hunt!

About the Author:

Jenn Givler is owner of J. Givler Consulting – http://www.jgivler.com. My mission is to help you become empowered, put yourself first and be centered and grounded in who you are and what you want out of this life. Visit my web site and sign up for Clearly You! An informative newsletter full of practical advice to help you get where you want to go!