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Newspapers for your job search
Check newspaper ads
Newspapers are a quick and easy way to get your job search started. They offer a broad range of opportunities, change daily and are very cheap. It you would rather deal directly with a company, papers are a good way to start.
A job ad may have thousands of applicants, and you need to separate yourself from the masses by making your application stand out. An employer or personnel department may have an assistant who screens applications to ensure only suitable applications are assessed.
They will quickly scan over your application looking for ‘key-words’, which the employer is looking for. Without these key-words you may find your application not being read.
Reading and responding to an ad
You must start by reading the ad very carefully and understand what the employer wants from you. It is your job to respond with the same key-words that were listed in the ad. This will help someone who scans your application see your skills at a glance, and get you noticed.
Below is an example job ad seeking a computer programmer with certain key skills.
The reply to the ad is from Mr Perfect, who has all of the required skills in abundance, so it is easy to see the keywords present on the ad and the reply.
Example job ad
Computer Programmer Wanted
Super Soft is looking for an experienced computer programmer to join our software team.
The applicant must have at least 3 years experience in developing commercial software products. Ideally you will have an OO background, 3 years of C++ and strong GUI design skills. Knowledge of SQL Server and MySQL are desirable.
We offer a highly competitive salary with excellent benefits.
Please send your application to Alex Jones.
Example cover letter
Dear Mr. Jones
I am very interested in the computer programming position advertised in the Daily Post. My CV is enclosed for your information.
As you can see from CV I have over 4 years experience developing commercial software products. My other key skills are detailed below:
OO Background – Studying OO as a module at University gave me a solid foundation to build my extensive set of OO skills, which I use every day.
C++ – My 4 years of commercial development consist of software written in C++. I am a member of the C++ club of England, and part of their Q&A forum, which provides solutions to the hurdles beginner programmers face.
GUI Design – I am currently the senior GUI designer and hold a DDA in design. All interfaces our checked by me before they can progress past the design stage. I am especially proud of the work I did on the design of the software package designed for people with special needs.
SQL Server – I have a basic understanding of SQL Server and MySQL through our database administrator.
I am a conscientious person who works hard and pays attention to detail. I’m flexible, quick to pick up new skills and eager to learn from others. I also have lots of ideas and enthusiasm. I’m keen to work for a company with a great reputation and high profile like Super Soft.
Thank you for taking the time to consider this application and I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.
Yours sincerely