Looking for work

Practical advice for job hunters

It is not uncommon to be looking for work. Whether you are changing jobs or looking for your first job it may not be easy. Two of the most important things employers look for in potential workers are experience and skills related to the job.

Following are some suggestions that may help you to get experience and find the job you are looking for.

Volunteering - Volunteering is a good way to get on-the-job experience, and it may also help you decide if that field is one you want to work in. Some of the benefits of doing volunteer work may include:

• Learning new skills
• Increasing the number of references available to you
• Gaining experience in the workplace

You may want to check out the websites in the Related Links box on the right hand side of the page for more information about volunteering.

Stay confident - The longer you are looking for work the harder it feels. Try to remember the skills you have are valuable. If possible think of the job hunt as a challenge and an opportunity to find out what you are interested in.

Talk to someone - If you are unsure about your career path or field of work you wish to enter, there are people who you can talk to for advice. Try your careers advisor at school, TAFE or university.

Look after yourself - Part of staying positive is looking after yourself. Try and find time in the day to chill out and do something you enjoy. It may be hanging out with friends, listening to music, going for a walk, kicking the footy or reading a book. Eating well and exercising are also important ways to look after yourself.

Look in a range of places for jobs advertised - There are lots of places you can look for work. Some of these include:

• Newspaper
• Internet job sites
• Centrelink
• Uni or TAFE employment services.

Approach organisations/people - As well as applying for jobs advertised you may want to approach organisations or people who you are interested in working with. It is not uncommon for positions to be available, but they have not yet been advertised. Approaching the organisation also lets people know you are enthusiastic.

Add to your skills - Adding to your skills increases your chance of getting work. You may wish to enroll in a course at university, TAFE or with a community college. Centrelink also provides some training opportunities for unemployed people. Contact your nearest office for more information

Create your own work - You may want to create your own work. Think of what your goals are, the skills you have and then match this up with what is needed in your local area. You may wish to do a small business course to help you to increase your skills. Your local TAFE should be able to help you with more information about what courses are available.