Job Search Basics

Q. I am interested in finding work in Boston and was wondering what jobs you would suggest I look for as an English undergraduate with limited job experience. I am currently unemployed and looking to move to the Greater Boston area with an easy commute. Please get back to me as soon as possible.

A. Many job seekers approach the job search just as you are, with little focus on what they want, and even less focus on what they have to offer. Before you start getting frustrated with the hiring process, take the time to step back and develop a strategic approach to the job search. A liberal arts education can be very valuable when presented to hiring managers in the right way.

Focus. Focus on any one thing. You can’t run a successful job search if you’re looking at any job; in any industry; in any position; with an easy commute. Pick an industry and a position that requires the skills you consider valuable.

Identify your skills. Who would want to hire you? As an English major, assess whether you have good writing or presentational skills, analytical skills, organizational abilities, data entry skills or any others that organizations have a need for. You have limited experience, but at least you have some! Look at organizations that you are familiar with – maybe a college or university. Identify the environments you have had some experience with and build a list of similar firms.

Chosen excerpts by Job Market Monitor

via The Basics of a Job Search – The Job Doc Blog – Boston.com.