How to find out about job vacancies

Job vacancies are advertised in many ways. Make sure you check for vacancies in several places, as some may be advertised in only one spot.

Use the Internet

Many job vacancies are listed online. 

• There are now many job vacancy websites. Some list vacancies for a variety of jobs, while others have job in specific industries, such as IT.
• Many recruitment agencies use job vacancy websites, but also have job listings on their own websites.
• Many industry organisations, such as professional bodies or industry training organisations, will have job listings.
• If you are interested in working at a certain business or a particular employer, keep an eye on their website. Most organisations will list vacancies on their own website.

• Job vacancy and recruitment agency website links - list of websites that feature job vacancies

Check daily and local newspapers

Major daily newspapers usually have one issue a week that features most of the job adverts. Papers with a weekend edition will generally have a large employment section too.

Recruitment agencies

Recruitment agencies often advertise vacancies in newspapers or on their own websites on behalf of employers. You will normally need to register with an agency before you can apply for the vacancy, but registration should be free, as recruitment companies get paid by employers.

Recruitment agencies will often contact you about other jobs they think will suit you, which can be an effective way to access jobs that are not publicly advertised.

Other places where jobs are advertised

• Professional and industry journals - you can buy these journals, or see if they are available in your library or on the Internet.
• Career expos -  recruitment agencies, universities and industries hold job expos, where employers provide information about job opportunities at their companies, and list vacancies. You can often apply for the positions at the expo, so take a few copies of your CV and be prepared for impromptu interviews.

Job search networking is about making connections with people who can either give you information about potential job openings, or introduce you to others who have this information.

You have nothing to lose by phoning or meeting with your contacts. If you don't make the connection, you won't know if there is good information or a job lead. If you do speak with them, you may be successful. At the very worst you'll feel a bit uncomfortable. But being prepared will make things easier.

Work out who can help

Talk to everyone you know, including people such as:

• family and friends
• neighbours
• previous employers and colleagues
• people you play sport with
• local businesspeople.

It doesn't matter if you don't know many people. The people that you know might know other people who might know of a job opening.

If you can pick up the phone and call them for any reason, they are potential networking contacts.

How to find new contacts

• Get involved with a civic, social, religious or sporting organisation. As you meet new people in the organisation you can network with them.
• Join a professional organisation related to your field. The meetings or other events are good opportunities for you to network.
• Consider contacting employers directly and setting up interviews, as this is a very effective technique in networking.

What to tell your contacts

• Tell them you're looking for work or interested in exploring new job opportunities.
• Prepare a brief statement about what you're looking for and the kind of help you'd like.
• Describe the position you are seeking and give a brief review of your background, qualifications or companies that interest you.
• Be specific about what you're after. For example, say "I'm looking for a role in training and development within the public sector or a not-for-profit organisation".
• If they don't know of any jobs at the moment, ask them to keep you in mind. Most importantly, ask them if they anybody else you can contact.
• Follow up with your contacts. Often people will tell you "I'll see what I can do/find out" and leave it at that. Ring them back to find out how they got on (this might remind them to do it).
• Follow up leads. After your initial networking efforts and research you will probably have a long list of new connections. You may need to meet with them in person to introduce yourself and get more information or job leads.

Tips for making new contacts and maintaining your network

• Whenever you meet someone new, exchange business cards, or at least get one from your new contact, so you can send them your details.
• Be prepared. You never know when you may run into someone who knows someone with a job vacancy. Always project a positive attitude and have pen, paper or business cards on hand.
• Record and organise your network contacts. You can use a spreadsheet, index cards or a job leads form. Write down the results of meetings and any follow-up needed. This will help you organise your time and monitor your progress.
• Show your appreciation for the help you receive by sending thank you notes or by telling contacts the results of information they gave you.

Keep networking even after you've found a job. You never know when you might need your network contacts again.