Do you have a list of employers in mind that you would like to work for? That’s a great place to start looking for job openings. Having a list of companies will focus your search, and save time and energy.
Although you might feel like you're accomplishing something by sending out lots of resumes, it’s actually better to focus on employers that you are interested in first. Ask yourself what matters most – location, industry, type of work, salary, flexibility? All of those may seem equally important, but consider the order of importance. As you research companies, target those employers that offer the things that are most important to you.
The Chamber of Commerce is a great resource for finding local employers. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce website has a directory you can search to find your local Chamber of Commerce contact information. Professional Associations are a great means for inside information on job opportunities -- but you must be a member. Search the Web using Google or Microsoft’s Bing to find an employer's website. You should be able to locate the employer’s website and an email address using the Internet.
Once you have a list of employers that seem worth pursuing, visit their company websites. What to look for when researching companies:
• Leadership and/or management style
• Organizational structure
• Products and services
• Number of employees
• Typical career paths
• Annual sales
• Work culture/environment
• Potential for growth as a company and for you personally
• Company history
• Locations
• Biggest competitors
• Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For
• Fortune’s 100 Fastest Growing Companies
• AARP National Employer Team
As you research employers, be sure to jot down names, numbers and web addresses to refer to when sending a cover letter and resume. If there are openings at any of your targeted employers, consider applying. The company website will provide instructions on how to apply.
If there are no current openings posted, keep the employer on your list and check back at a later date, or reach out to them and let them know you’re interested in working for them. Here’s a sample letter you may send to show your interest or, consider using a targeted resume.