Vicinity Jobs: The power of research: Do your homework first!

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The power of research: Do your homework first!
Jacquie Ottema, Employment Facilitator at the Newmarket Employment Resource Centre

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One key piece of the job search puzzle often overlooked and definitely undervalued is the ''research'' phase. I know... I know... I dislike research as much as you might... but here's the kicker and the honest lowdown... you could be spending much of your job search time creating your paperwork - your resume, cover letter and references (which is important as well...don't get me wrong!) without key information that could save you time, frustration and lead you to fulfilling work that is in DEMAND. Why customize your marketing materials for work that is experiencing a declining trend?

So why is research so important and what exactly should you be researching? Quite frankly...lots of things, such as:

How do you find work nowadays - especially with this internet frenzy?

What is the employment landscape like in York Region?

How much money should you be asking for?

Which industries are experiencing growth (hiring) and which ones are downsizing (laying off)?

What are employers looking for?

How can you transfer your current skills and experience into a new career?

Research, you see...is not ALL about company information and labour market news...it's about self discovery and determining clearly what you have to offer an employer. A good salesperson knows; their product inside and out, who their competition is, where the need for their product is found and where to find buyers...and that takes research!

How much more attractive do you believe you would be to a potential employer if you could intelligently discuss industry trends and demonstrate your knowledge of the company based on the research you have done? Or, if you exuded great confidence and could articulate how your skills and experience would solve their problems?
I think the answer is clear...

I often suggest and strongly recommend that at least 20-25% of your job search consist of research, becoming an ''information sponge''. The Newmarket Employment Resource Centre is chalk-full of resources and information that can get you started in the right direction, regardless of what stage of your job search you are in. Information is power...and research is the key. Quite amazingly, doing so can dramatically increase your self confidence in your ability to find a good job fit when you feel like you are 'in the know'.

So... keep focused! ... keep positive!... and keep learning!

''Don't know how to get down to the nitty-gritty of this labour market? I CAN HELP! By attending my workshop entitled "What's Hot and What's Not" you can learn where to get started to find out key information about where the majority of jobs can be found in any field in this current labour market. Call the Newmarket Employment Resource Centre at 905-952-0502 to sign up! There's no cost to you!''

Jacquie Ottema is an Employment Facilitator at the Newmarket Employment Resource Centre.
Click here for info about the Newmarket Employment Resource Centre


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