Guide to Finding, Applying for a Job

This is part of a continuing series of free-lance columns that help explain how to deal with situations in our lives and/or how to make life more enjoyable. Looking for a job is a stressful experience, whether it’s your first job or a mid-life career change. “You can lessen the stress by following some simple guidelines,” according to James P. Glenny, president of the Personnel Group of Northridge.

Glenny, who has had more than 20 years’ experience in personnel administration, is a consultant to businesses that need help in either developing procedures or reviewing those already existing. He also teaches seminars on job hunting for the Learning Tree in Northridge.

Getting Started

“Most people begin by reading the want ads in their local newspaper,” Glenny states. “While this is a good place to begin, it is also where job seekers often make their first mistake.”

Want ads are listed in alphabetical order so the person looking for a job in, let’s say, accounting, usually looks under the A listings. What’s wrong with that? Nothing . . . as far as it goes. However, jobs in the field might also be listed under financial or bookkeeping or even clerical or managerial, depending on what aspect of accounting you are interested in. Therefore, Glenny advises that you read all of the want ads, from A to Z.

Furthermore, ads sometimes appear in places other than where you expect them--the business or sports sections, for instance. Read the paper thoroughly with an eye open to what might be an opportunity for you.

Remember, you don’t have to wait for an ad to appear in order to apply. Nor do you have to apply for the exact job listed. For instance, you may want a part-time job or need to work at home. Ask for what you want, and show how that can benefit the employer by doing it your way.

Glenny says you also will want to check with the state Employment Development Department or even with a private personnel firm for job listings. For the latter, you often must pay a fee, although sometimes the employer pays it. These fees vary so be cautious, especially if you’re out of work because you may also be out of cash.

Another source is your area chamber of commerce, which can supply some guidelines or supply insight about its member firms.

Writing the resume is the next important step. A resume should be short; one page is best. Include your work history, education, skills and talents. Volunteer activities, such as PTA or Scouting involvement, are also good to list, especially if you haven’t had much work experience. Don’t give any negative information about yourself, including the reason you left your last job. That can be covered in the interview.

No Pictures

Don’t send a picture of yourself, and you are not required to reveal your sex, marital status or number of children. Always write “salary is negotiable,” because you may ask for either too little or too much, thus spoiling your opportunity to negotiate the best deal. Make your resume as professional looking as possible, no flashy paper, no gimmicks. Attract attention by being businesslike.

Another attention getter is the cover letter. In the cover letter, you simply state why you want to work at the company to which you’re applying and what you think you can do for them. Tell them when you will call to make an appointment for an interview. A persuasive, well-written cover letter often is responsible for getting you in for an interview.

Before the interview, prepare a “panic sheet” that lists your address, phone number, Social Security number, names and addresses of former employers as well as dates of employment. These are all items requested on applications--items you are apt to forget when you are nervous. Have with you the names and addresses of three references. Be honest about your qualifications and experience. Be on time and take with you a pen that works.

Money Is an Object

Are you being realistic about salary expectations? You may even decide to settle for less if there seems to be opportunity down the road. Don’t price yourself out of the market.

Too many questions about benefits may scare off a prospective employer. Emphasize what you can do for the company. Don’t ask about vacations, health care or salary increases until after you receive a job offer.

When you get home, write the interviewer a short note, thanking her for her time and restating your interest in the company. This could put your application back on top of the pile.

You may have to interview a number of times before you land the job you want.

Learn from every interview, be persistent and eventually you will be part of the work force.