Getting Started
Getting Started
Where to begin your search for work?
So, you are at the stage where your CV is ready and you are keen to explore career opportunities.
Here are some of the best ways to focus your efforts.
- JOB PORTALS
The internet is brimming with employment sites that can give you a better idea of what is available in the market. Many job portals will require you to input information from your CV in a specific format. It’s time consuming, but usually once your details are uploaded, they will be registered until you delete them. Beware of any sites that request a payment for an interview or similar.
* Useful Links: www.bayt.com, www.gulftalent.com, www.indeed.com
- CORPORATE WEBSITES
Start off with a general search in your area of expertise, as well as exploring the sites of leading employers you would like to work for. A regular check of corporate websites in your field will keep you up to date with company news, which could come in handy during an interview, and many have a section detailing the latest vacancies.
- SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS
Professional networking sites such as LinkedIn have become an important way for recruiters to find suitable employees, so use this to your advantage. However, always keep in mind that a professional social media platform is a very different medium than one for personal use. Use a professional sounding email address and be aware that whatever you post could be viewed by an employer. If your social media accounts are linked, consider that employers could also be checking out your posts to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
*Useful links: www.linkedin.com, www.monster.com
- WORD OF MOUTH
Networking is the most traditional way of finding a new position, and still the most effective. Talk to family members, friends, university tutors and people already in the kind of role you are aspiring to. Do not be too pushy, but it doesn’t hurt to get the word out.
- MEDIA ADVERTSVacancies are usually advertised across a variety of mediums – in newspapers, other print publications and online. Check classified sections across several sources on a regular basis, so you are up to date with the latest offerings.
- NETWORKING AND SOCIAL GROUPSWhile online networking has become the norm, getting together with likeminded people for a real life chat can substantially boost your chances of hearing about suitable positions. High schools and universities typically have plenty of groups catering to the athletic, bookish, creative, and socially minded – try searching the online bulletin board. There are also networking groups such as AIESEC, an international organization that helps students develop leadership skills and pursue overseas internships, and the Qatar Professional Women’s Network, an informal networking group for Qatari and expatriate professional women.
*Useful links: www.aiesec.org, www.qpwn.org
