Job Search Overwhelming?

Sure it's been a few months more, and still I have not found that much needed job to start off my life after college. BUT, life will continue to press on and my job hunt along with it.

While browsing through the Twitter-verse today, I came across a great article with some excellent advice. Using social media has proven to be a crucial aspect to finding a job. But, people are still skeptical. How can this be?

As the article pointed out, no matter how overwhelming something may seem, it is possible. And, it will pay off. Social media may seem scary, but it's worth mastering.

"There is nothing you can't do, as long as you break it up into small and manageable parts."

So true.

The Power of Networking

Since beginning my Birmingham job search last summer, I have been through quite a lot. I have searched tons of job and employer sites, picked through hundreds of postings, searched through Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and City materials, Tweeted about my hunt, and extended my resume and portfolio to family and friends who MAY have even a tiny connection to Alabama. I've tried nearly everything.

Aside from a strike of good luck when I landed an informational interview with a local PR firm, what do you think has been the best method of searching?

You guessed it, networking with family and friends. Looking for jobs that I have NO idea about whether they exist has been the best method. Networking.

Now, you are all probably curious as to whether I've received any interviews or offers yet. To be honest, I am happy to say that I have had two informational interviews and spoken with three other connections down there.

It has been said that it takes about 6 months to find a new job. Since I began actively contacting companies, about four months have gone by. I think I've come a long way in that amount of time. Finding a job does not happen over night. Since being in contact with actual bodies - not answering machines, not emails lost in the wilderness of the web - I finally feel like I'm making progress.

For anyone else in my boat, whether you're relocating or just having trouble finding a job, keep on networking. Even the smallest connection is still a connection and can put you one step ahead of everyone else.