A few tips for your job search
The job market is not restricted to job sites. Sometimes you have to create your own opportunities. In order to maximize your chances, adopt a proactive attitude and use as many channels as possible.
Apply directly to an employer
Select employers that interest you and with whom you would like to work. Obtain their addresses and phone numbers. Do not hesitate to call the company to find out who is the person in charge of the department you are interested in and send them your application file. You can also visit the company to give them your CV personally. If you don’t have a contact name, ask to speak to a Human Resources representative.
Consider smaller companies
Many new jobs will come from smaller, growing companies. Small businesses are a valuable source for job searching. Although larger companies are more visible, well-known and aggressive in looking for employees, smaller companies may offer the same interesting positions. Focus on small companies that are expanding; they can be easier to approach and contact.
Read the press
Still the main place to find job ads just a few years ago, newspapers are now publishing fewer and fewer of them. Most daily newspapers do, however, still publish a “jobs” section. Perhaps this could be a way to stand out from those who apply online?
Search the Internet
The Internet has large range of job search websites. The main job boards (www.jobup.ch, 100000jobs.ch, www.scout24.ch, www.neuvoo.ch, www.jobs.ch, etc.)are sources that list vacancies and hiring companies. In addition, most websites give job seekers the possibility to post their CV and write a message expressing their motivation for potential employers to review. However, there can be a lot of competition for these positions due to a high number of applicants.
Contact regional employment offices
The Regional Placement Offices (Offices Régionaux de Placement, Regionalen Arbeitsvermittlungszentren or Ufficio Regionale di Collocamento) centralize job vacancies in your region. Advisors can give you information on the job market outlook, which companies are hiring, etc. free of charge. You will find extensive documentation on how to search for a job, present you application file or pursue vocational training. In addition, these offices are often equipped with job search terminals where you can access a listing of all vacancies.
Try temporary or contract work
Working as a temporary worker can provide you with valuable experience, contacts and references. Many times temporary or contract jobs can turn into permanent opportunities. Also, some staffing companies offer free training to increase your skills and professional knowledge.
Use social networks
Make as many contacts as possible and use your personal network (friends, acquaintances, family, former co-workers, etc.). Tell them about your experience and professional skills. Ask them if they know of any job opening. Do not hesitate to tell everyone you meet that you are job hunting. The bigger your network, the better your chances to find opportunities.
Controlling your image on the Internet
As the No. 1 media, the Internet carries all sorts of useful information for job hunters as well as for recruiting employers. However, some personal information could get in the way of a potential hiring or promotion. Your virtual reputation, or online reputation can have serious consequences on your real life. How then can you control your image on the Internet?