By Renee, LSWA
It seems like every day I hear of another person in my circle of friends who has been laid off or lost their job. In this day and time and with all of the competition from other highly qualified applicants, getting the local paper and searching the want ads is probably not going to land you the job of your dreams. Here are some additional resources you may want to check out to help you in your search and ones I use on a daily basis as I assist my clients.
1. Career Builder not only provides you a list of openings geographically, but you can also store a cover letter, resume and sign up for notifications when jobs become available that fit with your qualifications.
2. Investigate your state's workforce services. Here in Maryland, you can access the Maryland Workforce Exchange. You can browse openings by job type and geographic location. You can also browse the listing of occupational training providers that have been approved through the federal Workforce Investment Act. You will be able to view detailed information about each training provider as well as the occupational training courses they can offer to you. You can also search out the center sites in your location. They offer resume writing and other job readiness classes to assist you in putting your best out there at every interview.
3. Use other internet resources like, Craig's List, Monster.com, Hot Jobs, Facebook, etc. Social networking sites are great for letting people know that you are in need of a job. Never underestimate the power of your friends and social connections.
4. USAJobs is the official lob site for the US federal government. You can check out opportunities available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Don't forget to research the opportunities in your county. In Harford County, you can go here.
5. Take advantage of free resume writing classes offered in your community. You need a great cover letter and resume to land that interview. Check with the local community college, public libraries and workforce center sites to see what is available.
6. For more information on resume writing and cover letters go to:
7. For information on dressing for success and interviewing tips go to: