How To Find a Job in Your Town
Whether you live in a big city, a small town or a suburb, you can use the Internet as well as local resources to point yourself in the right direction for finding a job.
Don't discount Craigslist.
Even though many people of varying qualifications check it every day, many reputable employers post on it when they have an unexpected job opening that needs to be filled quickly. While major job sites like Monster.com are great for posting your resume and planting the seeds for a rewarding position down the line, responding to a short-term gig on Craigslist could potentially have you working tomorrow. Don't put all your job search eggs in the Craigslist basket, but use it to keep yourself afloat while you search for something longer-term.
Do a search for temporary employment agencies in your area.
If you happen to live in or near a city with a downtown, there should be an abundance of these to choose from. Temp agencies specialize in filling short-term need for labor, whether in the white-collar, blue-collar or creative sectors. Positions could last from a day to six months, and even longer if the employer decides to hire you away from the agency. Though most agencies have a clause against this happening during the duration of the original contract, there is nothing to prevent you from becoming a real employee after your temporary contract is up.
Finding the best temp agency for your needs depends somewhat on your location, but RateATemp.com, a national searchable database of agencies, can help you get started.
Network as extensively as possible.
Turn to former employers: even if they don't currently have a position open for you, they may know somebody in the industry who does. Friends and family members may also surprise you with the professional connections they are able to produce.
Social networking also doesn't hurt. Creating a profile on LinkedIn presents you as a Web-savvy and professional individual, strengthening your brand and making you a more attractive candidate. Even if you don't need a new job right away, a LinkedIn profile listing your work history and achievements can be a great resource to have in your back pocket. Trust us: though it may not feel like it sometimes while you are pounding the pavement to find a job, employers are looking, and your dream job may just find you.